What is Lymphedema?
An abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid which most commonly causes swelling in one or more extremities. Skin changes can be present in later stages of lymphedema.
Two Classifications of Lymphedema:
Lymph Regions
What is Lipedema?
A chronic fat disorder that is weight loss resistant and is found mostly in women. Fatty tissue accumulates symmetrically in the hips and buttocks to the ankles, sparing the feet. The arms are sometimes involved and in most cases there is a disproportion between the legs and trunk. The areas affected can be painful or sensitive to touch and easily bruise.
An abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid which most commonly causes swelling in one or more extremities. Skin changes can be present in later stages of lymphedema.
Two Classifications of Lymphedema:
- Primary: caused by congenital malformation of the lymphatic system that can start at birth or show up later in life.
- Secondary: is more common and usually occurs from surgery or trauma, radiation therapy, removal of a lymph node or infection of the lymphatic system. Obesity, severe venous insufficiency, and a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to the onset of lymphedema.
Lymph Regions
- Arms and Legs
- Intestines
- Head & Neck
- Trunk
- Genitals
What is Lipedema?
A chronic fat disorder that is weight loss resistant and is found mostly in women. Fatty tissue accumulates symmetrically in the hips and buttocks to the ankles, sparing the feet. The arms are sometimes involved and in most cases there is a disproportion between the legs and trunk. The areas affected can be painful or sensitive to touch and easily bruise.
Complete our quick self-questionnaires below to see if you may have signs or symptoms of lymphedema or lipidema.
Call us today at 702-448-6042 to get scheduled!
Call us today at 702-448-6042 to get scheduled!
Lymphedema Therapy
Our Norton Certified Lymphatic Therapists provide our patients with Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT):
- Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD): A gentle massage that increases lymph flow
- Compression therapy: Compression bandaging and/or compression garments
- Exercises: Performed with compression to promote lymph flow
- Skin care: Nail care, wound management, prevention of wounds
Compression Bandaging
Our therapists provide compression bandaging. This type of bandaging consists of the therapist applying foam padding and several layers of short-stretch bandages to decrease edema in the affected limb. Once the limb is decongested, appropriate compression garments are fitted for daytime and/or nighttime use.
Self-Questionnaires:
Do you think you have lymphedema?
Do you think you have lipidema?
- Do you have swelling in one or more limbs?
- Is the swelling worse in one limb if you have swelling in more than one limb?
- Do you have swelling on the top of your hand or foot?
- Do you have any hard skin areas, skin changes or chronic wounds?
- Does one or more limb feel heavy or achy?
- Have you recently had a surgery that caused swelling that will not go away?
- Have you had a lymph node or nodes removed?
Do you think you have lipidema?
- Do you have symmetrical fat accumulation at the hips and buttocks down to the ankles?
- Does your body appear to be disproportionate with a more slender waist compared to to your hips and legs?
- Are your legs painful to touch, feel spongy, or bruise easily?
If you answered yes to two or more of the questions about lymphedema or lipidema and want to schedule an appointment, please call (702) 448-6042.