Our clinic provides evaluation and treatment of lymphedema – or swelling – of the legs and feet.
A patient’s medical history is important in determining what has caused his/her lymphedema as there are several causes for it. Lymphedema occurs when the vessels of the lymphatic system cannot drain lymph fluid adequately.
Risk factors for developing lymphedema include older age, excess weight, and autoimmune-related arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis). Untreated lymphedema can lead to complications such as skin infections, leaking of fluids from the skin, and changes in the appearance and thickness of the skin.
Lymphedema is often treated with compression bandages or garments and/or pneumatic compression devices. Other treatments include exercise and manual lymphedema therapy.
At the initial consultation, the lymphedema is assessed, and a treatment plan is created. After obtaining measurements of the affected limb(s), a compression device (bandage, garment, etc.) will be prescribed and applied. The provider will determine what other treatment, if any, is needed outside of the compression.
