Lymphedema Services

The Lymphedema Treatment Center at Medcenter One offers comprehensive treatment and education to individuals with lymphedema, or those at risk of developing lymphedema. Our therapists are registered occupational therapists who are certified lymphedema therapists through the Lymphology Association of North America. They have advanced clinical training and certification in complete decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) using the Vodder method.

Lymphedema is an accumulation of protein-rich fluid that collects in the tissues of the skin. It is very common condition world-wide. If left untreated, lymphedema can have serious consequences for individuals.

There are two types of lymphedema:

1. Primary lymphedema may be present at birth or develop later in life. It is due to a malfunction of the lymphatic system. Swelling may appear suddenly if stress is placed on the lymphatic system, such as a sports related injury.

2. Secondary lymphedema is commonly caused by removal and/or radiation therapy of lymph nodes, injuries or scarring. Any of these occurances can interrupt the body's normal fow of lymphatic fluid and result in swelling of a body part or region.

What are the symptoms of lymphedema?

Early symptoms of lymphedema may include a subtle feeling of heaviness, tightness, or fullness even though no swelling is visible. Lymphedema commonly begins with swelling in the hands or feet. Swelling may initially appear for a short time at the end of the day and disappear by the morning. Untreated, lymphedema will progress and the involved part of the body may become more swollen with harding and decreased elasticity of the skin. Other skin complications such as infection (cellulitis) are common.