Finding Center Massage & Bodywork

What is Lymphedema? Lymphedema is a progressive condition of the lymphatic system, characterized by uncontrolled swelling, often in extremities. This can be caused by lymph node removal during cancer treatment, chronic venous insufficiency, trauma to lymphatic collectors, long term obesity, and more. It can be managed, but never cured. Lymphedema and edema are not the same. Please reach out if you think you may have lymphedema. I am happy to take a thorough health history and offer suggestions based on individual circumstances.

How is Lymphedema diagnosed? Most MD’s receive very little training on Lymphedema. Oncologists and vascular surgeons are more familiar with the condition, but often only offer basic suggestions for treatment.

What is the treatment for lymphedema? Lymphedema can be managed with manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) by both a trained therapist, and the individual with the condition. Long term management requires patient compliance with compression garments, self-MLD, and lifestyle changes. Without proper management techniques, swelling will return. Working with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist trained in complete decongestive therapy will offer patients the most comprehensive management system.

What does a Certified Lymphedema Therapist do? Certified Lymphedema Therapists, or CLTs, are licensed individuals such as massage therapists, physical therapists, or occupational therapists that have been certified through an accredited school to perform complete decongestive therapy. Complete decongestive therapy consists of 4 pillars of treatment. Those pillars are manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), skin care, exercise, and bandaging/compression garments.

How can I help you? I am a certified lymphedema therapist with certification through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies. Not only am I certified through their 40-hour MLD program to work with healthy lymphatic systems, I am also a certified lymphedema therapist with 135-hours of training in complete decongestive therapy, trained to work with lymphatic pathologies. I can help with skin care, compression garment selection, lymphatic exercises, MLD, and education. Email findingcentermassage@yahoo.com or text 503-893-2088 for more information.