Swelling Solutions

What is Lymphedema?

     Lymphedema is an abnormal swelling of a body part or region. The lymph vessels that carry the fluid are damaged and/or overwhelmed. This leads to the build-up of fluid, protein and wastes in the tissues.

Lymphedema is a chronic, non-curable but managable condition if recognized and treated early.

Are You At Risk?

     Lymphedema can be classified into two main categories:

Primary lymphedema: Some people are born with poor or nonfunctioning lymphatic vessels. This conditon can be seen at birth or not manifest until later in life.

Secondary lymphedema: This form of lymphedema is acquired through trauma, disease, surgical procedures or most often it is associated as a complication to cancer treatment where a combination of radiation and/or lymph node removal has occured.

How is Lymphedema Treated?

    Lymphedema is treated by Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT). There are five main components to CDT. MLD (manual lymphatic drainage massage), compression therapy, exercise, skin care and education.  Treatment is performed by a therapist trained in decongestive therapy. It is important when locating a therapist that you ask the following questions:

1) Do you have specialized training to treat lymphedema that encompasses: MLD, compression therapy, exercise and skin care? Are you certified in CDT?

2) What school did you take your courses through and was this course more that 130 hrs in duration. Do you attend regular upgrading courses?

3) How long have you been treating lymphedema?

      Since registered massage therapists do learn some lymphatic drainage techniques in their training and some will take extra courses on performing manual lymphatic drainage massage, you have to be careful that the therapist has full training for lymphedema.

SWELLING SOLUTIONS ensures all it's therapists are fully trained by an approved school as determined by the Lymphedema Association of Ontario. We hold in -house educational meetings and encourage regular attendance at upgrading seminars.