Treatment options and techniques

 
♦  Initial Assessment

           →  which includes:     • Review of health history form and relevant questions
                                              • Range of motion assessment
                                              • Limb girth measurement
                                              • Palpation and physical examination
                                              • Other assessments as needed

♦  Combined Decongestive Therapy for Lymphedema (Swelling)

            →  which includes:     •  Manual Lymphatic Drainage
                                               •  Fibrosis -  special techniques and softening/reduction devices
                                               •  Compression bandaging or/and Compression garments
                                               •  Remedial exercise therapy
                                               •  Therapeutic skin care
                                               •  Education regarding prevention and risk reduction

♦  Massage techniques
       
            → which include:        •  Myofascial Release
                                               •  Passive/Active Release
                                               •  Scar Tissue techniques
                                               •  Tissue and Joint Mobilizations
                                               •  Stretching
                                               •  Trigger Point Therapy
                                               •  Hydrotherapy - applications of cold, hot, paraffin wax, etc.

♦  Client Self-bandaging

♦  Kinesiotaping technique - for redirection of Lymph flow, reduction of scar tissue and postural re-alignment

♦  Other Taping techniques - for postural re-alignment

♦  Assessment of your compression garment(s) for proper fit

♦  Assistive Device Program (ADP) Authorizer

       - This program is offered through the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long term-care.  
       - Being an authorizer allows patients access to "Pressure modification devices" (compression garments 
         and sleeves for primary and secondary lymphedema, breast prostheses). 
       - The program will cover a "percentage" of the cost for these devices.

♦  Home exercise programs / Self-care programs 

♦  Client Education / Family member Education