Lymphedema Treatment Speciality Services in Omaha
Rehab Guru Physical Therapy now offers lymphedema treatment as a specialty service for your lymphedema and edema-related conditions such as post-surgical swelling, orthopedic injuries, chronic venous insufficiency, and lipedema. Orthopedic injuries resulting in swelling of an extremity show a faster rate of recovery if the edema is addressed and treated early. You can then begin strengthening and coordination rehabilitation. Our therapy works really well for total knee replacement surgery or for anyone who has had surgery and is experiencing swelling in either limb.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a stagnation of lymph fluid that results in swelling in a portion of the body, usually the arm or leg, typically caused by a malfunction in the lymphatic system. There is no cure for lymphedema, but through early intervention and proper treatment, you can benefit from controlling the condition and can live a normal, fulfilled life. If untreated, lymphedema results in excess protein fluid collecting in the tissues of the arms and legs. This may impact wound healing, lead to infections, or lead to fibrotic or hardening of tissues. Lymphedema can be hereditary but is often caused by damaged or missing lymph vessels due to cancer treatment, surgery, infection, or trauma. The most common cancer surgeries that can cause lymphedema are:
Lymph nodes are often removed during cancer surgery because many times they are where cancers will first spread. While this procedure is vital for stopping the spread of cancer, it can damage your lymphatic system, the vessels that work to filter and clear lymphatic fluid from tissues. This can result in lymphedema.
What Types of Lymphedema Treatments Are Available?
Our specialty-trained occupational therapists and physical therapists utilize treatment options such as manual lymphedema massage, compression bandaging, compression garments, exercise, education regarding positioning and nutrition, and psychological and emotional support to reduce the impact of lymphedema and edema on your daily life. Our objective of lymphedema treatment is to reduce swelling and decrease discomfort to allow you to return to normal work and daily activities with direction and education on long-term self-management. Our approach is holistic, and you will be seen on a one-on-one basis. Our goal is to facilitate an improvement in your quality of life so that your living and working environments become more manageable for you.
Benefits of Lymphedema Physical Therapy
Lymphedema physical therapy offers a wide range of benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. Benefits include:
1. Reduced swelling: Through techniques like MLD and compression therapy, lymphedema physical therapy helps reduce swelling and improve lymphatic flow. This can result in a decrease in limb size, improved range of motion, and reduced discomfort.
2. Improved circulation: By promoting lymphatic drainage and enhancing blood flow, physical therapy can improve circulation in your affected limb. This helps prevent complications like infections and promotes overall healing.
3. Enhanced self-management: Lymphedema physical therapy encourages you to take an active role in managing your condition. Through education and personalized exercise programs, we teach self-care techniques you can do at home.
4. Psychological well-being: Managing lymphedema can take a toll on your mental health. Physical therapy provides a supportive environment where you can openly discuss your concerns and receive guidance. This can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation, leading to improved overall well-being.
5. Increased independence: By equipping you with the tools and knowledge to manage your lymphedema, physical therapy promotes independence. We want you to feel confident in your ability to effectively manage the condition and minimize its impact on your life.
We offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation to answer any questions you may have prior to making an appointment. We also work with your doctors to ensure the best possible outcome for you. Call or text us today at 1-402-740-8400.
