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Lymphedema Treatment
Lymphedema is the abnormal swelling of a body part,
most often an arm or leg, caused by an improperly functioning
lymphatic system. A normal lymphatic system drains away
excess protein, fluid, tissue waste products, bacteria, and other
foreign substances from the body. Lymphedema may
occur after surgical removal of lymph nodes, or radiation treatment
for various cancers such as breast, cervical, or prostate. Lymphedema
can affect an individual's self esteem, mobility, appearance, and
comfort. 
Southern Indiana Rehab Hospital (SIRH) can
help lymphedema sufferers with a specialized therapy program.
This program offers relief from symptoms and provides the tools and
knowledge to help manage lymphedema. 
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Lymphdema
Treatment
The basic program consists of the following:
•Evaluation by a therapist
•Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) - specialized massage to promote drainage of
the edema (swelling).
•Compression Bandaging - special bandages applied to prevent the limb from
refilling with fluid and to promote lymphatic drainage between
treatments.
•Exercise - Specific exercises performed with compression bandages to
utilize muscle action to pump edema from the affected limb.
•Education - One on one, hands on education by specially trained
therapists teaches patients and their families how to manage
lymphedema at home.
•Compression Garment Fitting - A custom elastic support garment is ordered
for the patient. This garment helps maintain the benefits of therapy
and prevent future stagnation of fluid in the limb. If
you think you may be suffering from lymphedema see your physician
immediately. With a referral from your physician, treatment through
the lymphedema program can be arranged by calling our scheduling
department.
For more information about the program, or to schedule an appointment, call (812) 941-6134.
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