Lymphedema Physical Therapy

Lymphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial tissue that causes swelling of a body part, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema results when protein rich edema fluid accumulates in the affected area.

This condition can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired, or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed. This can be a result of surgery, trauma or genetics.

Lymphedema often is associated with complications following cancer treatment by means of surgery or radiation therapy. Women are particularly at risk of developing lymphedema in their arms following surgery or radiation therapy for breast cancer, or in their legs following treatment for cervical cancer, uterine cancer, etc. Men are particularly at risk of developing lymphedema in their legs following surgery for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, etc. Both men and women are at risk following treatment of malignant melanomas (skin cancer) with lymph node dissection and/or radiation involving an arm, hand, leg or foot.

While lyphemdema is a chronic condition, it can be prevented and treated to minimize its effects.

Midwest Physical Therapy and Sports Center is happy to announce that we’ve expanded our Lymphedema Physical Therapy Services, with our  lymphedema specialist, Dawn Bonness, PT. Dawn has training in lymphedema management and treatment.

Please contact us at 402-436-2535 if you want to learn more about lymphedema physical therapy.