Lymphedema Therapy

At Advanced Therapy Solutions, we provide comprehensive lymphedema treatment delivered by a Certified Lymphedema Specialist in an outpatient setting. Our goal is to reduce swelling, improve comfort, restore mobility, and help you confidently manage your condition.

Early intervention leads to the best outcomes. If you are experiencing swelling or heaviness, seeking treatment promptly can significantly improve long-term results.

Lymphedema is persistent swelling that most commonly affects the arms or legs but may also occur in the shoulders, hands, fingers, chest, or other areas. It develops when the lymphatic system is unable to properly drain lymph fluid, leading to fluid buildup in the tissues.

The lymphatic system plays a critical role in:

• Removing excess fluid from tissues

• Transporting proteins and waste

• Supporting immune function

When lymph nodes are removed, damaged, or blocked — often due to cancer treatment, surgery, radiation, infection, or trauma — fluid can accumulate and cause chronic swelling.

Lymphedema may be hereditary (primary lymphedema), but it is most commonly secondary to:

• Cancer treatment (especially breast cancer)

• Lymph node removal

• Radiation therapy

• Infection

• Scar tissue formation

Many individuals undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment are not routinely referred for lymphedema therapy, despite its proven benefits.

 You may notice:

• Swelling in the arms, legs, hands, fingers, chest, or shoulders

• A feeling of heaviness or tightness

• Aching or discomfort

• Reduced range of motion

• Joint stiffness

• Skin that feels firm, tight, or thickened

• Indentations (“pitting”) that remain after pressure

If you are experiencing these symptoms, contact your physician for a referral to our Certified Lymphedema Specialist.

You will be evaluated by an Occupational Therapist certified in Lymphedema Treatment. Your therapist will:

• Review your medical history

• Assess strength and range of motion

• Take precise measurements of affected and unaffected areas

• Identify the stage and severity of lymphedema

Measurements are tracked throughout treatment to monitor progress.

Your care plan is customized to your specific needs and may include:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) – A gentle, specialized technique that stimulates lymph flow

• Compression Therapy – Garments or bandaging to reduce and control swelling

• Therapeutic Exercise – To promote circulation and mobility

• Skin Care Education – To prevent infection and complications

• Home Management Program – Empowering you to manage symptoms independently

For mild cases, treatment may focus on compression, exercise, and elevation. For more advanced cases, a structured program including manual lymphatic drainage and compression bandaging may be recommended.

Once swelling is reduced, we transition you into a maintenance phase focused on:

• Independent symptom management

• Updated compression garments

• Ongoing exercise strategies

• Prevention of flare-ups

Our goal is to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed for lifelong management.

Approximately one-third of individuals who undergo axillary lymph node dissection during breast cancer treatment develop lymphedema. Proactive therapy — both before and after treatment — can significantly reduce risk and improve outcomes.

Benefits of Lymphedema Therapy for Breast Cancer Survivors:

• Reduced swelling and discomfort

• Improved shoulder mobility

• Increased postural endurance

• Enhanced functional independence

• Improved aerobic capacity

• Decreased risk of lymphedema progression

• Development of a sustainable, lifelong activity program

Early screening and intervention can dramatically improve quality of life during and after cancer treatment.

• Certified & experienced Lymphedema Specialist

• Individualized treatment plans

• Evidence-based interventions

• Comprehensive education and support

• Collaborative care approach

We are committed to helping you reduce swelling, restore function, and regain confidence in daily activities.

If you are experiencing swelling or have concerns about lymphedema, contact us today to schedule an evaluation. Early treatment can make a meaningful difference in your long-term health and comfort.