Our highly trained physical therapists will provide you with medically supervised exercise programs that are designed to strengthen muscles and improve the function of the lymphatic system. These exercises are light and gentle, focused on encouraging circulation and regaining mobility to the affected limb.

Your physical therapist may suggest bandaging the entire limb, in order to encourage the lymph fluid to flow evenly throughout the lymphatic system. With wrapping, the bandage typically is at its tightest around your fingers or toes and loosens up as it moves up your arm or leg.

Compression is similar to wrapping, in that it helps to prevent the re-accumulation of lymphatic fluid. However, it has some slight differences. Pneumatic compression is a special sleeve that is worn on the affected region that is connected to a pump. This pump will periodically inflate, putting pressure on the limb, and allowing the lymph fluid to circulate away from the affected area. Compression garments, such as long sleeves or stockings, can also be worn when exercising the affected limb to encourage the additional flow of the lymph fluid during physical activity. Your physical therapist may suggest a custom-made compression garment, which he or she will assist in fitting.

This is an intensive approach that our physical therapists generally use for severe cases. It combines multiple therapy treatments with lifestyle changes, in order to provide healing and prevent further damage to the lymphatic system. This treatment is not required for everyone, and may not be recommended for those with certain health conditions. Your physical therapist will let you know if you are in need of CDT.