Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid, which causes swelling, most commonly in the arms or legs. It often develops when lymph nodes or vessels are damaged or removed, typically due to cancer treatment or other surgical procedures. Another significant cause of lymphedema is chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), where poor vein function leads to prolonged fluid buildup and swelling. Understanding the signs and symptoms of lymphedema is key to early diagnosis and treatment.
Signs and symptoms of lymphedema include:
- Swelling: Noticeable swelling in part of the body, usually in one or more limbs, which may also extend to the fingers or toes.
- Feeling of heaviness or tightness: A persistent sensation of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb.
- Restricted range of motion: Difficulty moving the affected limb normally due to swelling and tightness.
- Recurring infections: Increased susceptibility to infections in the affected area.
- Hardening and thickening of the skin: Over time, the skin may become hard and thick, and feel rough to the touch.
- Aching or discomfort: Persistent or intermittent aches in the swollen limb.
Early detection and management of these symptoms can help reduce the progression of lymphedema and improve quality of life. Being evaluated by one of our Lymphedema Specialists in Raleigh will help you get on track.
Lymphedema Treatment Options
Introduction to Lymphatics
This treatment program is designed for individuals experiencing mild to moderate Lymphedema, Lipedema, or Vascular Edema. As a leading Lymphedema Experts in Raleigh, our clinic is committed to providing top-notch care and education about the lymphatic system, an essential component of the body’s drainage system that aids in illness prevention and fluid removal. Patients will learn valuable self-management strategies to confidently handle their condition daily. The program features Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), a specialized gentle massage technique that efficiently moves excess fluid from swollen areas back into circulation. We also offer personalized recommendations for compression garments, designed to reduce swelling and provide support to affected areas. These combined therapies are expertly tailored to improve symptoms and boost the quality of life for our patients, making us a trusted provider of lymphedema treatments in North Carolina.
Advanced Lymphatics
This program is specifically tailored for individuals with moderate Lymphedema and skin changes associated with this condition. As a recognized expert in lymphedema treatment, our clinic offers a comprehensive approach to managing these symptoms effectively. Participants in the program receive in-depth lymphatic education, helping them understand how the lymphatic system works to fight illness and manage fluid levels in the body. They also learn advanced practical self-management strategies that empower them to take active control of their condition every day.
Importantly, this program offers treatments at a higher frequency, ensuring optimal reduction and management of Lymphedema symptoms. Our goal is to offer the most effective solutions for lymphedema care in Raleigh, ensuring each patient achieves the best possible outcomes. This focused, frequent approach to treatment helps our patients see significant improvements in their condition, decreasing their dependency on others, and enhancing their overall quality of life.
Complete Decongestive Therapy
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a detailed and effective treatment plan designed to help people who suffer from moderate to severe Lymphedema and extreme skin changes. This may also include recurrent infections, weeping, and fibrosis. As experts in lymphedema treatment, this program uses the most frequent and intensive treatments available to get the best results – The Gold Standard of Care for Lymphedema.. The main goal of CDT is to reduce swelling, improve skin appearance, decrease risk for infections & wounds, and improve the way the body functions.
Here’s how CDT works:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): This is a gentle massage technique that helps move excess lymph fluid out of swollen areas, encouraging it to flow back into the bloodstream. This helps reduce swelling.
- Compression Bandages: After MLD, the affected areas are wrapped in special bandages. These bandages help maintain the reduced swelling and prevent fluid from building back up.
- Exercise: Specific exercises are part of the program and are designed to strengthen muscles and improve lymph fluid flow, which helps continue to reduce swelling.
- Skin Hygiene Practices: Good skin care is crucial because skin changes are common with Lymphedema. This part of the therapy focuses on keeping the skin clean and moisturized to prevent infections and promote overall skin health.
- Self-Management Techniques: Patients are taught strategies to manage their condition independently, including how to properly use compression garments and perform simple lymphatic drainage techniques at home. This empowers them to maintain their health and prevent future complications.
By combining these five key components, CDT provides a comprehensive approach to managing Lymphedema. Serving North Carolina, our Lymphedema Therapists are recognized experts in delivering this advanced therapy. This not only helps in reducing swelling but also in improving overall quality of life by making daily activities easier and less painful. If you are looking for expert lymphedema treatment in North Carolina, our clinic offers the specialized care you need.