Are you dealing with lymphedema? Have you found it challenging to reduce the swelling on your own? Fortunately, at Performance Therapy Institute, our occupational therapist can help you find the results you are looking for!
Lymphedema is a painful condition resulting from swelling in an arm or leg. Proper guidance on reducing and managing lymphedema is the key to relief. Our occupational therapists are skilled at treating and educating you on the most effective strategies to minimize swelling and pain.
At Performance Therapy Institute, our occupational therapist is certified in lymphedema management and understands the importance of helping people resolve their condition once and for all.
Our clinic treats lymphedema patients at our Brentwood location, and we’d be happy to set up an appointment for you, so give us a call today!
Causes and Symptoms of Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a disease involving swelling that usually occurs in the upper or lower extremities due to excessive build-up of lymph fluid. If your lymphatic system is blocked, you can feel swelling of your arms or legs as the fluid cannot drain properly.
Improper drainage results in the build-up of lymph fluid in your arms and legs, posing potential health hazards if left untreated. There are two kinds of lymphedema. These conditions are difficult to deal with, but they occur for different reasons.
Primary lymphedema is either hereditary or develops on its own. The cause of primary lymphedema is not always apparent. Your primary care physician may want to take additional imaging tests to look at your lymphatic system and to rule out any potential conditions.
Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of a disease or disorder. It can also happen after a person is treated for cancer; oftentimes, lymph nodes are weakened or removed entirely during surgical treatments.
If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, speaking with a licensed occupational therapist Performance Therapy Institute is a great way to learn more about managing your discomfort.
Signs to look out for include:
- Restricted range of motion
- Heaviness/tightness
- Aching/discomfort
- Fibrosis
- Infections
- Swelling
No matter the source of your lymphedema, our Brentwood occupational therapist knows how to address the swelling and pain and help you find relief once and for all!
Benefits of Occupational Therapy For Patients With Lymphedema
At Performance Therapy Institute, our goal with each patient is to get them to be independent in performing their activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and/or eating. As an occupational therapist, our goal is to get you back to being independent and perform the occupation/activity you have been struggling with!
We will conduct a thorough evaluation to understand the nature of your condition and all the factors contributing to lymphedema. Our occupational therapist uses various therapeutic techniques, including manual lymphatic drainage massage, compression garments, and limb-wrapping techniques. The goal is to minimize pain, swelling, and any other symptoms caused by lymphedema.
Performance Therapy Institute will incorporate targeted manual therapy, scar tissue mobilizations, and mobility work to restore range of motion or tissue mobility related to cancer treatments or injuries causing the edema.
We will also recommend aerobic exercise, resistance training, stretching, yoga, and pilates. Exercise is a safe and effective intervention in managing symptoms associated with lymphedema and restoring function.
We know the safest exercises to support an improved quality of life, improved strength, and improved mental health while decreasing pain and lymphatic swelling.
Request An Appointment
If you are struggling to handle symptoms of lymphedema and are looking for help, your journey to excellent pain management begins here. Performance Therapy Institute is here to help you improve your overall health and everyday life, so don’t wait any longer! Contact us today to make an appointment at our office.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!