Lymphedema Treatment

Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute offers lymphedema and edema management programs at numerous Allina hospitals, clinics and Sister Kenny Sports & Physical Therapy Centers. The Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute’s lymphedema treatment program is certified by the National Lymphedema Network.

What is lymphedema?

Lymphedema develops when the lymph pathways are unable to circulate the excess fluid due to inflammation or infection. Causes of lymphedema include lymph node removal or damage related to breast cancer surgery or another medical problem, or congenital deformity.

Patients with lymphedema may experience a constant achy sensation because of swelling in the arms or legs. They may also have trouble fitting their clothes over the swollen areas. Lymphedema symptoms may require specialized treatment.

Lymphedema treatment

The goals of Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and Virginia Piper Cancer Institute's certified lymphedema treatment program include:

• reducing swelling and infections
• establishing new pathways for lymph fluid
• reducing scar tissue
• improving strength, range of motion and use of the arm or leg

Physician services

A rehabilitation doctor (known as a physiatrist) and a nurse practitioner who specialize in lymphedema, are available to patients. They will:

• conduct a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on the cause and location of swelling
• assess other medical problems that may be related to swelling (lymphedema), such as vascular conditions, skin problems, pain, joint stiffness, weakness, paralysis and balance problems
• recommend treatment options tailored to your needs.

Recommendations may include diagnostic tests, X-rays, scans or other consultations as needed. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, equipment and special garments are prescribed as needed.

Appointments

For an appointment with a doctor or nurse practitioner who specializes in lymphedema treatment, call Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Associates at 612-863-8947.

Therapy

A physical or occupational therapist with advanced training provides treatment based on an individual’s needs. The therapy may consist of:

• Manual Lymph Drainage: This is a special light massage performed by a therapist to assist in moving the fluid to other parts of the body. This will also soften areas of hardness in the tissue.
• Compression Bandaging: The therapist applies multi-layered bandages to the arm or leg after massage. Bandages keep the fluid out of the arm or leg by increasing pressure to the skin and causing the muscles to contract, stimulating the lymph vessels.
• Exercise: A specific exercise program to increase lymphatic flow is developed for each person.
• Education: Individuals with lymphedema are at a higher risk of developing infection. Education focuses on recognizing signs of infection and how to perform proper skin and nail care.
• Compression garment: If swelling has been treated and decreased as much as possible, individuals will be fitted with a compression garment. This garment helps maintain the reduction in swelling achieved during treatment.
  

Read what to expect during lymphedema therapy.

Referrals and locations

An examination by a doctor is necessary to correctly diagnose lymphedema. Physical therapy for lymphedema requires a referral from your health care provider. We offer lymphedema therapy at Sister Kenny Sports & Physical Therapy Center and Sister Kenny hospital-based locations throughout the Twin Cities.

Sister Kenny Sports & Physical Therapy Center: to schedule an appointment at any of these locations, call 612-262-7900 or 888-691-0045, unless noted.

• Buffalo (Gold’s Gym) 763-684-3880
• Coon Rapids
• Eagan
• Edina
• Elk River
• Minneapolis – 2800 Building
• Plymouth
• White Bear Lake
• Woodbury

Sister Kenny hospital-based locations: call 612-262-7979, unless noted.

• Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis
• Cambridge Medical Center, Cambridge
• Owatonna Hospital, Owatonna - 507-977-2150
• New Ulm Medical Center, New Ulm - 507-233-1173
• United Hospital (Doctor’s Professional Building), St. Paul
• Unity Hospital, Fridley

Call these locations directly to schedule an appointment:

• Allina Medical Clinic - Coon Rapids: 763-780-9155
• St. Francis Rehabilitative Services, Shakopee: 952-403-2001

Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-863-4200 or toll free 866-880-3550
E-mail us

First published: 01/01/2002
Last updated: 05/27/2010

Reviewed by: Nancy Hutchison, MD, CLT-LANA, Medical Director for Cancer Rehabilitation and Lymphedema, Sister Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and Virginia Piper Cancer Institute