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Lymphedema Therapy

Out Patient Physical Therapy Clinic located in North Port, FL

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Lymphedema Therapy services offered in North Port, FL


Lymphedema therapy is a specialized treatment geared towards alleviating swelling from lymphedema, reducing discomfort and preventing complications like stiffness, skin thickening, and repeated infections caused by this condition. Gigi Malvas, RPT, CLT, and the team at Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab in North Port, Florida, provide lymphedema therapy to remove fluid build-up in your arms, legs, and other areas of your body. Call Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab, or book a physical therapy consultation online today to learn more about lymphedema and its treatments.

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a swelling of a body part, most often the extremities. It can also occur in the face, neck, abdomen, and genitals. Lymphedema is a result of abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the affected area. Lymphedema may be caused by cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. In some cases, lymphedema is caused by damaged leg veins or blood clots—lymphedema results in chronic swelling that leads to tissue inflammation and scarring. As a result, patients are prone to infection.

What is lymphedema therapy?

Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab provides lymphedema therapy to promote the drainage of your lymphatic fluid. The team uses the Complete Decongestive Therapy method to help reduce swelling, improve the condition of your skin, increase your mobility, reduce the risk of infection and optimize your overall health.

What are the components of Lymphedema Therapy?

After completing a comprehensive evaluation and reviewing your medical history, the Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab team develops your lymphedema care plan. This consists of:

Manual lymph drainage

Manual lymph drainage is not unlike getting a massage. Your therapist uses specific techniques to move trapped fluid to functional lymph nodes and vessels to drain it from your system.

Compression bandaging

Compression bandaging consists of the application of layered prescription bandages that support the affected area to control swelling, help move fluid and prevent the build-up of excess fluid.

Exercise

When you exercise, your muscles contract, these contractions help pump lymphatic fluid out of a swollen area.

Skin care

Lymphedema often leads to infection. We ensure to educate our patients on how to keep their skin clean and moisturized to avoid infections and other complications.

If you have swollen limbs caused by lymphedema, call Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab or book an appointment online today. If you have difficulty leaving your home to seek physical therapy treatment, we are able to provide services at your home through our partnership with local home health agencies. Feel free to inquire with our staff about this option.