Can Lymphedema be Treated?
Since the introduction of CDT (Combined Decongestive Therapy) in North America, the medical community has been able to offer effective treatment for this condition. Daily CDT treatment by a skilled therapist consists of manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, remedial exercise and skin care. This regimen usually extends over a three to four week period. Once the swelling has been reduced and is considered stable, the patient is measured for a compression garment which he or she will continue to wear as long as recurrent swelling is a possibility. Although this type of treatment has proved very successful, lymphedema therapists and educators are discovering the vital role of patient education in the prevention and management of this condition, as there is no “cure” and long term maintenance inevitably becomes the responsibility of the patient. Those patients who have the opportunity to learn the basic anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system better understand the risks and t
