Kathleen Thompson, MPT, Erika Pagel, MSPT and Shannon Bowman, OT have recently become certified in the treatment of lymphedema.
Lymphedema is swelling that occurs in either the arms or legs caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes as well as an interconnected system of vessels that collect excess fluid in our tissue to be returned to the venous system. There are two basic types of lymphedema; primary and secondary. Primary usually involves the legs and can include swelling in the trunk. The lymphatic system may be abnormal from birth. When this system is no longer able to cope with normal amounts of fluid primary lymphedema may develop. Secondary is usually caused by surgery or cancer and its treatments. Treatment is similar for both types of lymphedema. It includes skin care, manual lymph drainage, bandaging of the affected limbs, fitting for compression garments and exercise. Kathleen, Erika and Shannon attended the Klose training lymphedema certification course in Boulder, Colorado. They spent over 100 hours training in the massage techniques and bandaging techniques as well as garment fitting. West River Health Services (WRHS) was able to add this patient care service through a grant by the Susan G. Komen Foundation which paid for these therapists to learn these techniques to better serve our communities. WRHS offers rehab services in Hettinger, New England, Mott and Bowman. If you have swelling either in your arms or legs that has not responded to other treatments you may have lymphedema. Contact your doctor or call WRHS Rehap Department at 701-567-6044 to speak to a certified lymphedema therapist.
07/05/2012
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Hettinger, ND 58639-753