Nazareth launches new lymphedema treatment program to support health, healing

Northeast Philadelphia – (January 14, 2020) – The Center for Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation and Balance at Nazareth Hospital recently launched a lymphedema treatment program to support the health and healing of patients.

Common causes of lymphedema include, but are not limited to, surgery/radiation, malignant tumors, immobility, as well as chronic venous insufficiency. Symptoms can include swelling, reduced limb mobility and pain. Certified lymphedema therapists at Nazareth can evaluate a patient's needs and provide necessary treatments close to home. Although no cure has been developed for lymphedema, certain treatments are available that may be used to reduce the swelling and manage the pain associated with the condition. Patients can expect a suite of services as part of their lymphedema treatment sessions at Nazareth:

Manual lymph drainage (MLD), which is a hands-on approach to assist fluid movement from the congested area to unaffected lymph vessels for drainage.

Compression therapy. Depending where you are in your treatment, bandaging or new compression garments will be appropriate to assist with decongesting the area while not in therapy. Prior to leaving, activities of daily living (ADLs) are assessed while bandages are worn to ensure effectiveness.

• Decongestive exercises.
• Education on skin care, self-care, disease management and much more.
• Measurement of affected area versus non-affected area to document your progress.

For more information about the lymphedema treatment program, please call the Nazareth Center for Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation and Balance at 215.335.3954.