Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care
Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care Living with lymphedema can be challenging, but specialized care can make a significant difference. At the heart of this approach is a focus on personalized treatment plans designed to reduce symptoms and improve mobility. By combining evidence-based therapies, patients can experience relief and regain their quality of life.
This program emphasizes the importance of tailored care. Each patient’s unique needs are addressed through a combination of therapy and education. This dual focus ensures that individuals not only receive effective treatment but also understand how to manage their condition long-term.
For cancer survivors, managing lymphedema is a critical part of recovery. The program integrates strategies to minimize risks and support overall health. By addressing the lymph system comprehensively, patients can achieve better outcomes and maintain their well-being.
Welcome to Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic
Restoring mobility and enhancing quality of life are at the core of our care philosophy. Located within the MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital’s O’Neill Building, our clinic offers integrated care in a major medical center. This setting ensures access to advanced resources and a collaborative approach to treatment.
About Our Clinic
Our team includes certified lymphatic therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. Each specialist brings expertise in neurological conditions, cancer rehabilitation, and innovative programs like LSVT BIG® for Parkinson’s. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to address a wide range of patient needs effectively. Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care
Our Mission and Approach
We combine advanced clinical expertise with compassionate support to deliver exceptional care. Our mission is to restore functional mobility and improve quality of life for every patient. Through personalized rehabilitation programs, we focus on empowering individuals to manage their condition and achieve lasting results.
Collaboration with cancer navigation services ensures holistic care for survivors. By integrating therapies and education, we provide comprehensive support tailored to each patient’s unique journey. Our goal is to help individuals regain control over their health and well-being.
Understanding Lymphedema
Understanding lymphedema starts with knowing how the lymphatic system works. This system helps manage fluid in the body and supports the immune system. When it’s compromised, it can lead to swelling, often in the arms or legs. Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema occurs when the lymph nodes are damaged or blocked. This prevents proper drainage of fluid, causing it to build up in tissues. The condition can be primary (congenital) or secondary, often due to surgery, trauma, or infection.
Causes and Risk Factors
Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care Common causes include cancer treatments that damage lymph nodes, such as radiation or surgery. Other triggers are obesity, chronic infection, or congenital issues. Cancer survivors, especially those with breast, prostate, or ovarian cancer, are at higher risk.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Key symptoms include asymmetrical swelling, skin hardening, and frequent cellulitis. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent progression. Doctors use clinical evaluations, limb measurements, and imaging to confirm the condition.
| Causes | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Cancer treatments (surgery, radiation) | Swelling in arms or legs |
| Infection or trauma | Skin hardening |
| Obesity or congenital issues | Frequent cellulitis |
Our Lymphedema Treatment Services
Effective management of lymphedema requires a tailored approach to treatment. Our services focus on reducing symptoms, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life. We offer a range of evidence-based therapies designed to address the unique needs of each patient.
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care CDT is a two-phase treatment that combines manual drainage, compression, exercise, and self-care education. The first phase, decongestion, involves intensive therapy over 2-4 weeks to reduce swelling. The second phase, maintenance, focuses on lifelong self-management to sustain results.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
This gentle massage technique helps redirect fluid flow in the lymphatic system. It reduces swelling and promotes better circulation. Manual lymphatic drainage is often used in conjunction with other therapies for optimal results.
Compression Therapy and Bandaging
Customized compression garments and bandages are essential for managing swelling. They provide consistent pressure to the affected limb, preventing fluid buildup. This therapy is crucial for long-term symptom control.
Therapeutic Exercises
Specialized exercises improve circulation, joint flexibility, and overall mobility. These movements are tailored to each patient’s condition and help reduce pain and discomfort. Regular exercise is a key component of effective lymphedema management.
| Treatment | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Complete Decongestive Therapy | Reduces swelling, improves mobility |
| Manual Lymphatic Drainage | Enhances fluid flow, reduces discomfort |
| Compression Therapy | Prevents fluid buildup, supports long-term results |
| Therapeutic Exercises | Boosts circulation, increases joint motion |
Patient-Centered Care at Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic
Empowering patients through personalized care is our top priority. We focus on creating treatment plans that address individual needs, ensuring everyone receives the support they deserve. Our approach combines advanced therapies with education to help patients manage their conditions effectively.
Individualized Treatment Plans
Every patient’s journey is unique. Our team designs custom plans to address specific challenges, such as venous insufficiency or obesity. These plans include therapies like compression techniques and exercises tailored to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
Education and Self-Management Techniques
We believe in equipping patients with the tools they need for long-term success. Workshops on home-based compression techniques and infection prevention are part of our training programs. These resources help patients take control of their health and prevent flare-ups.
Support for Cancer Survivors
Cancer survivors face unique challenges. Our oncology nurse navigators provide emotional and logistical support, ensuring seamless care coordination. Programs like “Strength After Breast Cancer” and LSVT BIG® focus on rehabilitation and improving quality of life.
| Service | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Individualized Plans | Address specific conditions, improve mobility |
| Education Programs | Teach self-management, prevent flare-ups |
| Cancer Support | Emotional and logistical assistance |
Why Choose Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic?
Choosing the right care provider can transform your journey with lymphedema. Our team is dedicated to delivering expert care that addresses your unique needs. With a focus on rehabilitation and mobility, we help patients regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Expertise of Our Certified Therapists
Our therapists hold advanced certifications, including CLT, CBIS, and LSVT BIG®. Jennifer McDivitt, an LSVT BIG® certified therapist, and David Federline, a certified lymphedema specialist, lead our team. Their expertise ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care tailored to their specific conditions. Good Samaritan Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care
Comprehensive and Holistic Approach
We integrate physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy under one roof. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to address the root causes of movement challenges. By focusing on the entire system, we provide holistic care that promotes long-term recovery.
Commitment to Patient Comfort and Mobility
Our goal is to restore independence through adaptive strategies and personalized plans. We accept over 25 insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and worker’s compensation. This flexibility ensures that patients can access the care they need without financial stress.
| Insurance Plans Accepted | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Medicare | Comprehensive coverage for seniors |
| Medicaid | Accessible care for low-income patients |
| Worker’s Compensation | Support for work-related injuries |
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
Taking control of your health starts with the right support and guidance. Begin by scheduling an appointment at our facility located at 5601 Loch Raven Blvd, Baltimore. We’re open Monday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 6 PM, and Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. Call us at 443-444-4600 to get started.
We simplify the process for you. A physician referral is required, and our team assists with insurance verification and payment plans. For urgent concerns like sudden swelling or infections, we offer immediate care protocols to address your needs promptly.
Parking is convenient, and the O’Neill Building is fully accessible. Join our free quarterly educational sessions designed for at-risk patients to learn more about managing your condition. Let us guide you toward effective rehabilitation and improved mobility.
