CHA PT offer a comprehensive physical therapy program for the Treatment of Lymphedema. Your treatment will be personally provided by our Certified Lymphedema Therapist(CLT), who completed a 135-hour training course in the Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS).

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is the abnormal swelling of a body part caused by the accumulation of a protein-rich fluid (lymph) in the tissue spaces. It occurs when the lymphatic flow is restricted in damaged, absent, or surgically removed lymph nodes and vessels. Lymphedema usually occurs in the limbs, but may be present in the face, head, trunk, or genitalia.


Symptoms of Lymphedema

  • Persistent swelling of a part or all of your arm or leg, including fingers or toes

  • A feeling of fullness, heaviness, or tightness in the affected area

  • Discomfort in joints

  • Restricted range of motion

  • Aching or discomfort

  • Permanent fibrosis of the tissue

  • Chronic ulcerations/wounds


Treatment for Lymphedema 

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the golden standard for Lymphedema management. All four components of CDT are essential for the best therapeutic outcomes. 

1. Skin Care
Important techniques using specific cleansers and moisturizers to maintain proper hygiene, promote good skin integrity, and eliminate or prevent infection. 

2. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) 
Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a unique and gentle technique of skin massage that promotes drainage of lymph fluid out of a limb into the normal drainage area. 

3. Compression
Compression is applied to help move the extra fluid out of the limb and to keep it from returning to the limb. The idea behind compression therapy is to assist the tissue by applying pressure from the outside, allowing the fluid to move into the lymphatic system, where it is filtered, concentrated, and returned to your circulatory system.

4. Exercise 
Specialized exercises are performed with compression bandages or garments. These exercises are designed to improve lymph production and lymphatic flow.

Our 60 minute Lymphedema therapy sessions are hands-on and one-on-one. They are provided in a comfortable and private treatment room with the highest level of care.