Lymphedema care at Akron Children’s Hospital is provided by a physical therapist certified in lymphedema management. Care and/or education is available for patients of all ages. A physician referral is required.
Lymphedema is a progressive disease, caused by proteins and fluid building up in an area of the body. Primary lymphedema is congenital, and secondary is due to trauma to the lymphatic system.
While lymphedema cannot be cured, it can be managed. It is possible for a swollen limb to be reduced to the same size as the unaffected limb with complete decongestive therapy and ongoing self-care with good hygiene, self-manual lymph drainage (MLD), compression garments and exercise.