The uncomfortable and often embarrassing swelling and discoloration associated with conditions such as chronic edema and lymphedema can impact and decrease the quality of life for those affected.
Often, patients with these conditions have undergone major surgical procedures in the breast or groin such as mastectomy, cervical or prostate surgeries and then find they have another condition to deal with: chronic swelling.
These patients can be referred for Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) to reduce and learn to manage their swelling. CDT includes components of manual lymph drainage, compression, exercise and self care. Depending on the symptoms and conditions you are displaying your lymphedema therapy treatment may take place at either Mission Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Center or Mission Rehabilitation Services.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage is one component of a comprehensive program called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), is a safe, gentle and effective approach to cleansing the body's tissues by rerouting and draining excess fluid. The manual lymphatic drainage techniques stimulate the patient's skin and underlying lymph vessels to move fluid toward the heart. Patients are taught to do these techniques as part of an ongoing self-management program for this chronic condition, in addition to the use of compression, exercise, skin care and self care strategies for effective edema control.
Conditions treated
While the causes of swelling may vary greatly, CDT generally helps people with:
- Lymphedema following surgical procedures in the breast or groin such as mastectomy, cervical or prostate surgeries, or following radiation therapy with axillary or inguinal scarring
- Any chronic swelling resulting in wounds or broken skin
- Swelling due to circulation problems/venous insufficiency
- Swelling associated with morbid obesity
- Unresolved swelling after orthopedic injuries or surgeries
Patients with certain medical conditions may need to be treated medically before beginning therapy and need to be closely monitored during treatment.
Our Team
The Lymphedema Therapy team is a skilled team of physicians, clinicians and physical therapists. The staff is committed to staying abreast of the relevant literature, research and technology in order to provide comprehensive, high quality care to you and your loved ones.
This multi-disciplinary team includes physicians, physician assistants, nurses specializing in wounds, foot care and ostomy care, wound specialists, hyperbaric physicians, and physical therapists who are Certified Lymphedema Therapists.
Referral and Contact Information
Referrals to the Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center can be made by your physician or you may call directly to set up an appointment for yourself as a physician referral in most cases is not necessary. Physician referral is required for physical therapy.
Patient with wounds will be seen at the Mission Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Center location.
Patients with no wounds will be seen at Mission Rehabilitation Center location.
For more information use our online contact form or call the Lymphedema Therapy Program at 828-213-4600 or toll free at 888-737-0098. Physicians can fax completed referral and medical forms to 828-213-4611.
Lymphedema Therapy is available at the following Mission Hospital locations:
 Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Center7 Yorkshire Street Asheville, NC 28803 Phone: 828-213-4600 |
|
