Who is at Risk?

Any person who receives radiation therapy or has undergone surgery to remove lymph nodes is at risk of developing lymphedema. The incidence of lymphedema following breast cancer therapies ranges from 10% to 35%.

What services does Olympic Physical Therapy provide with regards to Lymphedema?

A physical therapist with advanced training regarding lymphedema initially performs an evaluation. This will determine the need for treatment with manual lymphatic drainage, bandaging, range of motion and strength exercises. Additionally, education on self-bandaging, self-massage techniques and the use of compression sleeves will be given. We encourage and educate family members to participate in learning all components of the home program. We provide information for community programs with regard to cancer recovery and lymphedema supplies.