Treatments Provided
There is no cure for lymphedema, but early intervention and management techniques
allow most patients to lead full, normal lives. Because lymphedema is a
chronic condition, learning lifelong management techniques is essential.
Rusk Institute employs a comprehensive care approach that emphasizes the importance of patients' understanding of the condition and treatment and of their active participation in its management. Treatment may include the following:
• Manual lymph treatment to drain fluid and soften tissue in an affected area by specialized massage techniques.
• Multi-layer compression bandaging to reduce the amount of lymph in a swollen limb
• Compression garments to help minimize swelling throughout one's daily activities
• Therapeutic exercise to improve lymph drainage through a program of flexibility, strength-training, and aerobic activities
• Compression pumping to bring down swelling (in selected cases) through the use of state-of-the-art pneumatic pumps
• Patient education to allow patients to take control of their own lives. In addition to learning how to manage lymphedema at home, patients may receive guidance on specific questions from nutritionists, social workers, support groups, or other health professionals.
All patients benefit from follow-up treatment, with re-evaluations at recommended intervals to determine whether the management plan needs to be modified.
Lymphedema frequently afflicts women.
More information about Rusk's Rehabilitation Services for Women.
