Lymphedema
Lymphedema is caused by a block of the lymphatic system, resulting in swelling of the arms or legs. Specialized providers can help control the swelling and manage the condition.
Lymphedema therapy in Springfield, Tennessee
Whether you have lymphedema as a result of cancer treatments or a genetic disorder, our specialists are here to help.
At TriStar NorthCrest Medical Center, we do everything we can to alleviate your symptoms. Our services include complete decongestive therapy, manual lymphatic drainage and therapeutic exercise.
Need a physician referral?
TriStar MedLine can help. We are available by phone Monday through Friday from 7:00am to 7:00pm CST.
TriStar MedLine can help. We are available by phone Monday through Friday from 7:00am to 7:00pm CST.
Lymphedema services we offer
We offer advanced lymphedema treatment to help you manage the condition and reduce any risk factors you may have.
Lymphedema treatments we offer
Some of the common lymphedema treatments we provide include:
- Active and passive range of motion and strengthening exercises
- Activities of daily living training
- Complete decongestive therapy
- Compression garment recommendation
- Education in self manual lymphatic drainage
- Education in skin care and lymphedema precautions
- Lymphedema therapeutic exercise
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Multilayer compression bandages (short stretch bandages)
Types of lymphedema
There are two types of lymphedema we treat:
- Primary lymphedema — This is caused by a dysfunction with the lymph transport system. There may be insufficient vessels, or the vessels may be weak and unable to cope with the load. It's also possible there may be a problem with the lymph nodes themselves, and this usually affects the lower limbs.
- Secondary lymphedema — This is a result of damage to the lymphatic system. This may occur when nodes are removed in surgery or damaged by radiation treatment or accidental trauma. For example, in cases of breast cancer where nodes are removed from the axilla (armpit), there may be swelling.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is an abnormality of the lymphatic system that leads to excessive swelling (edema). It usually affects your arms but can also cause swelling in your legs and other parts of your body.
What causes lymphedema?
There are several causes of lymphedema, including surgery, cancer and some cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. If you are being treated for cancer, talk with your oncologist about your treatment plan and ways you can reduce your risk of developing lymphedema.
If you've had multiple breast surgeries, this can also increase your risk. The removal of lymph nodes causes physical trauma to the armpit area (axilla), which may result in the excessive swelling that is common with lymphedema.
Factors such as age, obesity, sedentary behavior and smoking can also contribute to an increased risk in developing lymphedema. If you want to reduce your risk, it's important to consider making lifestyle changes that will benefit your overall health and well-being.
Making an appointment
The appointment process with a certified lymphedema therapist is typically as follows:
- Once diagnosed, ask your provider to write an order and fax it to our office at (615) 698-3991.
- We will contact your insurance company for benefits and authorization, if needed.
- We will call you to set up an initial evaluation appointment.
- The lymphedema therapist will establish an individual treatment plan for you.