The Lymphedema Center™
The Lymphedema Center, or TLC is a division of HealthReach Rehabilitation Services, Inc. TLC was established to provide effective and compassionate treatment for people affected by lymphedema and other swelling related problems. Our holistic approach focuses not only on reducing pain and swelling but also on restoring function.
What is LYMPHEDEMA?
It is an accumulation of fluid that collects in the arm, leg or genital area when lymph nodes are blocked or removed. The lymphatic system is part of the body’s circulatory system and a vital part of the immune system. The lymphatic system runs parallel with the veins and removes cellular waste from the tissues.
Bean-shaped structures called lymph nodes filter lymph fluid and fight bacteria. When these nodes are insufficient, damaged or removed by surgery, lymph fluid backs up and becomes stagnant. The surrounding tissue then swells, thickens and becomes painful. Bacteria in this environment can multiply and greatly increase the risk of infection.
What are the types and causes of lymphedema?
There are two types of lymphedema, primary and
secondary.
Primary lymphedema of an “unknown cause” occurs in 1 in 10,000 people. Women are more commonly affected by primary lymphedema than are men.
Secondary lymphedema may result from the surgical
removal of, or permanent damage to, lymph nodes.
Nodes near the area may be removed or irradiated as
part of the treatment of breast, prostate, cervical or
uterine cancers. In a minority of cases, the chronic
swelling may occur.
How can HealthReach help?
Lymphedema can be controlled. With early
identification and proper intervention, the condition
can be treated, allowing individuals to lead a full and
normal life.
What treatment is best for you?
Before you are treated, you will be evaluated to
determine your proper, individualized course of
treatment. Evaluation includes education regarding
the precautions and warning signs of lymphedema.
Treatment may include the following:
- Manual lymphatic drainage – gentle massage which encourages the movement of fluid out of the tissues.
- Medical compression bandaging – this facilitates lymph flow and prevents refilling of the limb between treatment sessions.
- Sequential pumping – gently moves fluid from a limb into the circulatory system.
- Therapeutic exercise – an essential part of any treatment plan, muscle contraction is the best pump.
- Patient education – our goal is to help you manage your swelling, beginning with your first visit. Skin care, self massage, exercise and precautions may be addressed.
- Optimal ergonomic assessment – of the home or workplace to suggest adaptations necessary to reduce the aggravation of lymphedema.
- Individual training and support is provided by licensed occupational and physical therapists that specialize in lymphedema treatment.
About Edema
swelling due to an increase in tissue fluid.
It looks like . . .
- Lower extremity swelling that increases during the day.
- Localized swelling around a joint or muscle. Swelling that does not go away within a few days.
- It can be due to... Venous insufficiency, or malfunctioning valves in the veins.
- Extremity ulcers, chronic swelling that can cause wounds and prevent tissue healing. Injury and post-operative conditions, a normal response that causes pain and impairs function if it does not subside.
- Varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis, a condition that occurs after surgery or prolonged bed rest.
Treatments that might help include . . .
- Manual lymphatic drainage.
- Dressing changes with appropriate agents.
- Extremity elevation.
- Medical compression bandaging.
- Sequential pumping.
- Therapeutic exercise.
- Patient education and home program.
To get professional support and direction . . .
- Call HealthReach Rehabilitation therapists for a free, private phone consultation.
- Work with therapists to obtain a physician's order for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Learn what your condition is and what treatments are recommended.
- Understand how to independently manage your condition.
How do I get started?
Because our specialized therapy is medically based, a physician’s order is required for the evaluation and treatment process to begin. A free, private phone consultation is available by calling
The Lymphedema Center at 262-780-0707.
HealthReach offers multiple locations for lymphedema
services: our main clinic in Brookfield and other affiliated
sites throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
The Lymphedema CenterTM is available at the following locations:
What else should I know?
Treatment for lymphedema and swelling is covered by
Medicare and most insurance plans.
HealthReach is a Medicare-certified rehabilitation agency.
We accept most commercial health insurance policies.
The Lymphedema Center™ (TLC™), a division of HealthReach Rehabilitation Services, Inc., was established to provide effective, compassionate treatment for people affected by lymphedema and other
swelling-related problems. Our holistic approach focuses not only on reducing pain and swelling but on restoring function in your daily life. Ultimately, we work with you to independently manage your condition.
For more information on our program and locations,
call 1-888-780-8778.