Lymphedema Therapy is for people who have abnormal swelling of the tissues due to a compromised lymphatic system. This abnormal swelling can be caused by a system that has either failed to develop properly, or has been damaged by surgeries, removal of lymph nodes, traumatic injury or damaged by parasites.
At The Therapeutic Alternative, we treat Primary and Secondary Lymphedema. The most effective method known in treating Lymphedema is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) . Our method employs the four step program that is the standard of care for this condition:
- Manual Lymph Drainage
- Compression Bandaging
- Remedial Exercises
- Appropriate Skin Care
The Therapeutic Alternative has always been an advocate of a long term approach to the treatment of Lymphedema. To this end, our focus is on the individual, and each program is designed to meet their needs through a unique combination of techniques. Along with the standard method of CDT, we incorporate Ortho-Bionomy, which is a gentle method of tissue and muscle release rooted in osteopathy. This method allows us to release muscle and tissue contractions, and release congestion with little or no damage to the lymphatics or other delicate structures. Individually developed exercise programs are then incorporated, along with self care management techniques. We also employ the use of Kinesiotape, which helps to direct drainage through the surface of the skin, and the Riancorp LTU 904 Low Level Laser. The American Food and Drug administration has cleared the Riancorp LTU-904 laser as a tool to be used in the treatment of post mastectomy Lymphedema. It is the ONLY laser device cleared by FDA for Lymphedema treatment.
Complete Decongestive Therapy is scheduled as a series of treatments. Your first session will be 90 minutes, and includes a thorough intake and evaluation as well a treatment. The therapist will then discuss with you the recommended number of treatments to attain the highest quality outcome.
