Who Can Benefit
Individuals with lymphedema suffer from an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the body that results in swelling, most often in arms and legs. Untreated, lymphedema can cause tissue channels to increase in size and number, reduce the amount of oxygen transported through the patient’s body, interfere with wound healing, and promote bacterial infections.
Thanks to a grant the Occupational Therapy department of Citrus Valley Medical Center recently received from the Los Angeles County Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, uninsured and underinsured men and women over the age of 18 may now receive an evaluation and follow-up treatment free of charge. A physician referral is required.
How We Can Help
Citrus Valley Centers for Rehabilitation Services has designed a successful treatment regime that reduces the pain and discomfort caused by acute or chronic lymphedema and helps patients return to normal activities.
To determine the proper individualized course of treatment, therapists conduct a thorough evaluation which includes the following:
- Patient medical history
- Assessment of previous scars
- Strength testing
- Range of motion testing
- Pain level assessment
- Sensation level assessment
- Circumferential measurement
- Skin integrity assessment (color, texture, firmness, temperature, and moisture)
- Functional mobility assessment (ability to walk, stand up, etc.)
- Assessment of impaired daily activities (self-care, home management, etc.)
Our individualized lymphedema therapy programs include:
- Treatment of upper or lower extremity lymphedema
- Decongestive and self-massage techniques
- Care of the extremity and multi-layered bandaging
- State-of-the-art sequential pump treatment
- Referral/coordination of durable home medical equipment and hands-on instruction
- Home exercise training and referral to outside exercise programs, support groups, and other resources
Types of Conditions Treated
- Acute or chronic lymphedema
- Post mastectomy
- Post lymphnodectomy
- Post radiation treatment affecting lymph nodes