Lymphedema Management Program

Cancer treatment is the leading cause of lymphedema (limb swelling) in the United States.
Alpine Physical Therapy's Lymphedema Management Program is helping survivors better manage their risk by providing the gold standard treatment of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
 
There are two phases of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT):
Phase 1: Intensive CDT
Phase 1 CDT focus is moving lymph fluid out of the arm, hand, or other part of the limb to reduce swelling and other symptoms of lymphedema.

1. Manual lymph drainage (MLD): a gentle, directed massage technique used to move the fluid back to the heart.
2. Compression bandaging: the patient is bandaged with non-elastic wraps to further reduce the size of the limb and to prevent the fluid from returning. This wrapping is tailored to meet each patient’s needs.  ​
3. Exercise: exercises are carried out while wearing wraps to encourage the activity of the nearby muscles to move fluid back to the heart.   

Phase 2: Maintenance CDT
Phase 2 CDT focus is maintaining the results of Phase 1 on your own.

1. Compression sleeves and garments: the patient is fitted for compression garments and taught how to care for them properly.
2. Self-care: the patient is taught how to protect the affected limb, how to perform self- MLD, and how to properly use compression garments to reduce their risk of future lymphedema flare-ups.  
3. Exercise: Alpine designs an exercise plan for the patient for at home practice for continued health and well-being.  

If you have any feelings of heaviness in your limbs or swelling in any body part that is not controlled by water pills, follow up with our specialist today.
 
To learn more about CDT we invite you to stop by for a free 15-minute consultation. Antara Quiñones can be reached at Alpine’s North Clinic (406-541-2606) or click here for a full description of Alpine Physical Therapy's Lymphedema Management Program.