Lymphedema Management

Lymphedema Management

If you have lymphedema and want some relief, we can help.Lymphedema management in Tualatin, OR, can help alleviate pain and swelling and reduce the risk of infection.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a medical condition where your lymphatic fluids build up in the small tissues of your body. This buildup causes swelling in the arms and legs.

What Causes Lymphedema?

Several factors can cause lymphedema.

• Tumors (block lymphatic drainage).
• Breast cancer surgery (due to the removal of lymph nodes).
• Removal of pelvic lymph nodes.
• Trauma.
• Infection.
• An inactive lifestyle (causes legs to swell).
• Obesity.
• Heart conditions.
• Neuromuscular syndromes (like MS).
• Radiation therapy (scars and damages the lymphatic system).

The Symptoms of Lymphedema

If you have any of these symptoms, you might have lymphedema.

• Dull aches in the affected areas.
• Your skin feels too tight.
• It’s hard to move an arm or leg, or it’s hard to bend at the joint.
• A skin indentation remains after pressure is applied.
• Your shoes, rings, or watches are suddenly too tight.
• You have recurring infections in your arm or leg.
• Joint pain.
• You have difficulty performing your daily activities.

How Do You Get Rid of Lymphedema?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for lymphedema. However, there are different ways to treat it (like lymphedema management therapy), so it doesn’t affect your quality of life.

The Stages of Lymphedema

Here are the stages of lymphedema.

Stage 0

At this stage, the affected area might feel tight and heavy, and it will feel swollen. But you won’t see any outward signs of it actually being swollen.

Stage I

At this stage, you might have periodic swelling that goes away when you elevate the area.

Stage II

At this stage, the affected area is usually swollen. And the skin in that area will feel tighter than the skin surrounding it.

Stage III

At this stage, you will notice significant swelling in the affected area. You will also notice changes in your skin (texture and color).

What Is Lymphedema Management?

Lymphedema management therapy is a medical practice that focuses on relieving swelling in the arms and legs by helping to move lymphatic fluid out of the affected areas. It also prevents additional swelling. Our physical therapist in Tualatin, OR, will customize a treatment plan for you.

What to Expect During a Lymphedema Management Treatment

We have a therapist who is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) trained in evidence-based protocols for lymphedema management. Our therapist will design a customized treatment program to help control the swelling. The goal is to help you return to your daily activities as soon as possible.

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation, manual lymphatic drainage massage, compression therapy, therapeutic exercises, skin and nail care, healthy diet and lifestyle education, and a home care program to help you manage your condition.

Contact Us Today to Schedule a Lymphedema Management Consultation

Don’t let lymphedema keep you from enjoying your life! Contact us today. We’ll perform an initial consultation and provide you with a customized treatment plan. Don’t wait any longer to get the pain relief you deserve!