St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema
St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema Lymphedema is a condition caused by damage to the lymphatic system, often due to surgery, radiation, or infection. This damage can lead to chronic swelling in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body. If left untreated, it may result in mobility issues or recurring infections.
St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema At St Joseph’s, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to managing this condition. Our team combines advanced diagnostics, therapy, and patient education to create effective treatment plans. We are certified by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, ensuring our methods are evidence-based and reliable.
St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema Our program focuses on personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether the condition affects the limbs, trunk, or other areas, we provide solutions to improve quality of life. Our goal is to help patients manage fluid buildup and regain comfort.
About St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic
Decades of experience have shaped advanced methods for lymphatic conditions. Our team of certified therapists has been providing specialized care for over 25 years. They are trained through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, ensuring the latest techniques are used.
Our program is part of a larger rehabilitation network, offering comprehensive solutions. This integration allows us to address complex cases, including those resulting from cancer surgery or congenital issues. We focus on improving mobility and reducing fluid buildup.
Collaborations with oncology and vascular specialists enhance our services. These partnerships ensure a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Whether managing obesity-related swelling or damage to lymph nodes, we tailor solutions to each patient’s needs.
Ongoing training keeps our therapists updated on the latest advancements. This commitment to excellence ensures effective therapy for all conditions. Our goal is to help patients regain comfort and improve their quality of life.
Our Services
Innovative treatments are essential for addressing chronic swelling and fluid buildup. Our services focus on advanced methods to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. We combine cutting-edge technology with proven therapies to provide comprehensive care.
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a proven approach for managing swelling and fluid retention. This method includes four key components:
- Manual Lymph Drainage: A gentle massage technique to stimulate fluid movement.
- Compression Garments: Worn to prevent fluid buildup and support affected areas.
- Physical Therapy Exercises: Tailored movements to improve mobility and reduce swelling.
- Self-Care Education: Empowering patients with knowledge to manage their condition at home.
St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema Typical treatment programs last 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. CDT is particularly effective for patients recovering from cancer surgery or dealing with obesity-related swelling.
SOZO Screening
SOZO Screening is an FDA-cleared tool for early detection of fluid imbalances. This non-invasive scan takes just 2 minutes and provides 95% accuracy in identifying subclinical swelling. It compares fluid levels in different body parts, offering a baseline for pre-surgery and post-treatment monitoring. St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema
In one case study, combining CDT with SOZO monitoring resulted in a 40% reduction in severe swelling. This highlights the importance of early detection and tailored treatment plans.
Treatment Methods
Effective treatment methods are key to managing chronic swelling and improving mobility. These approaches focus on reducing fluid buildup, enhancing lymphatic function, and preventing complications like infections. Below, we explore three proven techniques that form the foundation of comprehensive care.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique that stimulates lymph flow. It uses light, rhythmic motions to move fluid from swollen areas to healthy lymph nodes. Studies show MLD can increase lymph flow by 300% compared to baseline.
This method is particularly effective for reducing swelling in the arms, legs, and other body parts. It also helps prevent infections by improving the lymphatic system’s ability to remove waste. Patients often report feeling immediate relief and improved mobility after sessions.
Compression Therapy
Compression therapy uses garments or bandages to apply consistent pressure to affected areas. This prevents fluid buildup and supports the lymphatic system. Compression garments typically maintain 20-30mmHg pressure, which is optimal for fluid control.
During treatment, bandages are often used initially for severe swelling, followed by garments for long-term management. This approach not only reduces swelling but also improves skin health, lowering the risk of cellulitis. St Joseph’s Lymphedema Clinic: Comprehensive Care for Lymphedema
Exercise and Mobility Training
Exercise and mobility training are essential for improving lymphatic function. Customized plans include movements like diaphragmatic breathing, shoulder rotations, and ankle pumps. These exercises enhance circulation and reduce swelling in specific body parts.
Research shows that tailored exercise programs can improve lymphatic function by 45%. Patients transition from clinical supervision to home management, ensuring long-term success. Proper skin care, including pH-balanced cleansers and moisture barriers, is also emphasized to prevent infections.
Take the Next Step Towards Better Health
Taking proactive steps can significantly improve outcomes for managing swelling and related conditions. Early intervention is key, with studies showing an 80% better success rate when treatment begins at Stage 1. Look out for warning signs like sudden swelling or skin redness, which require immediate attention.
Our team is here to guide you. We offer same-week appointments and multiple ways to connect, including phone consultations, online forms, and physician referrals. We also handle insurance coordination to make treatment accessible.
Explore our free resources, such as home care guides and workshops, to empower yourself with the information you need. Call us at 410-337-1349 or visit our website to start your journey toward improved mobility and comfort today.
