Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
ARC specializes in the treatment, care and maintenance of Lymphedema through another unique two stage treatment approach, and the care of post-op Cosmetic & Plastic surgery edema (swelling). Although a two phased approach ARC specifically focuses on Phase II of your Lymphedema protocol.
Although a two phased approach ARC specifically focuses on Phase II of your Lymphedema protocol.
Phase I
Phase II
Although a two phased approach ARC specifically focuses on Phase II of your Lymphedema protocol.
individual results vary
Phase I
Intensive/Decongestive stage
Here you would have displayed possible signs and symptoms of Lymphedema. An evaluation should have been conducted first to determine the need for Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), and your treatments intensity i.e. its frequency (3-5 days a week) and duration (2-6 weeks, sometimes a few months depending on the severity.) Once treatment was deemed necessary you should have commenced CDT to help move the lymph fluid out of your affected region. Therapeutic exercise is also an essential treatment component utilized here to assist the lymph drainage.
Phase II
Self-care/Maintenance stage
Once your affected region has responded to phase I and you graduate into phase II you come to us. Here the swelling in your affected region has significantly reduced but we want it to stay that way! To ensure this occurs you should have been fitted for a compression garment for day time and night time use, and you should have been instructed on how to perform ongoing, indefinite self-care which includes monthly MLD massages. That is where ARC comes in! Phase II is a very important part of your treatment protocol and should not be skipped once swelling has subsided as it can return. Therapeutic exercise is also an essential treatment component utilized here to continue to assist the lymph drainage.
Please remember that there is no cure for Lymphedema but it can definitely be treated and managed. Our goal is to help you maintain your reduction. This can be challenging on your own but you are not alone!
We recommend once you have completed your phase I protocol that you come in at least once a month for an MLD massage and that you receive regular follow-ups at least every 6 months.
Come in and let us assist you on your maintenance journey.
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