Lymphedema is a condition of swelling in an arm, leg or torso caused by inefficiency in the lymphatic system. The condition affects both women and men and can be either acute or chronic.

The lymph nodes and the lymphatic vessels act as filters for our bodies trapping foreign substances and excess fluids and then eliminating them. With an inefficient lymphatic system there is an increased risk of swelling and/or infection in the effected area.

Signs and symptoms of lymphedema include:

• Feeling of heaviness or tightness in the arm or leg

• Generally there is no pain, change in skin coloring or temperature

• Aching or discomfort of the arm or leg

• A change in the skin folds of the arm or leg

• Restricted movement of the arm or leg

• Swelling in the arm (or upper chest area) or leg

The causes of this condition can be many including:

• Surgical removal of the lymph nodes

• Trauma to the area

• Congenital conditions

• Poor condition of veins

• Radiation treatment

Certified lymphedema therapists can help, by evaluating the area, identifying treatment goals, and providing individual treatment aimed at meeting these goals.

Treatment may include the following:

• Manual lymphatic massage techniques

• Compression bandaging

• Instruction in exercises to assist with the massage and fluid reduction techniques

• Mechanical compression pumping to further encourage fluid reduction

• Education regarding proper skin care and necessary precautions

• Instructions in self-care 

Locations:

St. John Ambulatory Rehab Services have highly trained physical therapists at the following locations that are able to help.

• St. John Hospital & Medical Center - Shores Rehab- Twelve Mile Satellite
  20952 Twelve Mile, Suite 110, St. Clair Shores, MI 48081
  586-498-3500

• St. John Macomb Hospital - Windemere Park Satellite
  31700 Van Dyke, Suite 160, Warren, MI 48093
  586-276-8001

• St. John Hospital & Medical Center
  22101 Moross, Detroit, MI 48236
  313-343-3744

• St. John North Shores
  26755 Ballard Road, Harrison Twp, MI 48045
  586-466-5234

• St. John Hospital & Medical Center - Romeo Plank Satellite
  46591 Romeo Plank Road, Ste 115, Macomb Twp, MI 48044
  586-226-6500

• Providence Center for Rehabilitation and Fitness
  22255 Greenfield, Ste 118, Southfield, MI 48075
  248-849-3907

• Providence Park Hospital Rehab Services
  26850 Providence Parkway, Ste 163, Novi, MI 48374
  248-465-4190