Lymphedema is the swelling of any limb due to insufficient drainage of
the lymphatic system, which filters and returns fluid from your body
back into your circulatory system. Patients undergoing cancer treatment,
such as surgery or radiation therapy, are at risk of developing
lymphedema if their lymph nodes and vessels are damaged as a result
of these procedures. Symptoms often include tightness, discomfort or
swelling in the affected arm, hand, leg or foot.
Lymphedema may occur as a result of lymph nodes having been
removed during surgery or if lymph tissue has
been damaged by radiation. Many times, lymphedema can occur years
after the surgery or radiation.
About Our Program
The Lymphedema Management Program at Bryn Mawr Hospital offers a full
continuum of care. Under physician direction, specially trained and
experienced occupational and/or physical therapists employ a variety of
techniques to help patients better manage the symptoms associated with
lymphedema. The best results are achieved with early and continued
treatment. Even in cases of chronic lymphedema, an active management
program can reduce swelling and improve symptoms.
The goals of our program are to:
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Improve drainage in the lymph system
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Control swelling in upper or lower extremities
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Restore function in the affected limb
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Enhance the quality of life
Therapy Services
Specially trained therapists provide personalized care. Each patient is
evaluated, and an individualized plan is developed to meet specific
needs and achieve optimum results.
Therapeutic components include:
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Manual massage
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Compression bandages or garments
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Therapeutic stretching, strengthening and conditioning exercises
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Scar management
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Skin and nail care
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Specialized equipment (sequential gradient pump)
Related services:
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Patient education and instruction
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Ongoing patient follow-up
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Regular reports to the patient's physician
Outpatient rehab services are available for:
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Cording, also known as axillary web syndrome, a condition
characterized by limited range of motion in the arm, pain
radiating down the arm, and sometimes a visible "cord"
extending from the axilla (armpit) down the arm
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Measurement of special lymphedema garments
Physical therapy services help individuals regain independence, increase
strength and endurance and return to everyday activities.
Supportive Services
Our supportive services include:
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A monthly support group
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Community education programs
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Lifestyle education
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Nutrition counseling
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Alternative therapies
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Dance therapy
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Tai chi
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Cancer prevention and screening activities
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Home care services
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Fatigue interventions
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General conditioning exercises
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Aquatic therapy
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Lymphedema information resource guide
For more information about the program call
484.565.1063 for Paoli Outpatient Rehab Services and 484.337.6081 for
Bryn Mawr Hospital Health Center Outpatient Rehab Services.
Additional Resources
Lymphedema Support Group: 484-337-8608
National Lymphedema Network: 1-800-541-3259
Women's Health Source: 1-888-876-8764
This program is offered in collaboration with the Members of the
National Lymphedema Network.
