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Latest News

What's New - Lymphatic Massage

Published on March 24, 2014

Memorial Community Health’s Rehabilitation Department is pleased to announce that it has recently expanded its service offering to include lymphedema care.  (For those unfamiliar with the condition, lymphedema is the abnormal accumulation of lymph fluid that causes persistent and progressive swelling (most commonly in the arms and legs).)

Up to 25 percent of breast cancer patients whose surgery includes removal of lymph nodes in the area of the armpit eventually develop lymphedema.  The condition can also occur in other parts of the body if lymph nodes are removed in the course of other surgeries or are damaged by radiation treatment, infection, or trauma. Symptoms include swelling and pain near the site of the removed or damaged lymph nodes. Lymphedema can occur immediately after radiation therapy or surgery, or weeks, months, and even years later.

 Through lymphatic massage (also called lymphatic drainage or manual lymph drainage), MCHI’s certified occupational therapist is able to facilitate the drainage of accumulated lymph fluid through proper channels.  Complete Decongestive Therapy combines lymphatic massage with compression bandaging, exercise, and skin care. 

 For more information on lymphedema and MCHI’s Complete Decongestive Therapy, please contact the Rehabilitation Department at 402.694.8254.