The Author

Joachim Zuther, Lymphedema Specialist. Read more
Solaris
MediUSA

Tactile Ad

The Science behind Manual Lymph Drainage in the Treatment of Lymphedema

Tweet 

Manual lymph drainage (MLD) is a gentle manual treatment technique based on four basic strokes, which were initially developed in the 1930’s by Dr. Emil Vodder, a PhD from Denmark. These basic strokes known as the “stationary circle”, “pump”, rotary” and “scoop” techniques are designed to manipulate lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels with . . . → Read More: The Science behind Manual Lymph Drainage in the Treatment of Lymphedema

A Message from the Lymphedema Treatment Act

Tweet 

As of this writing, HR 2499 has 62 cosponsors!  Please help us reach our goal of getting to 100 this year.  At the end of this newsletter you’ll find the cosponsor list as of this publication – if you do not see your Representative’s name please write again at your earliest convenience, using the . . . → Read More: A Message from the Lymphedema Treatment Act

Comparison of Blood and Lymph Vessels

Tweet 

The heart and blood vessels represent the main components of the circulatory system, which consists of an elaborate network of tubes throughout the body. The circulatory system involves the combined functioning of the heart, blood and blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to organ systems and tissues, and to remove waste products . . . → Read More: Comparison of Blood and Lymph Vessels

Manual Lymph Drainage and it’s Role in the Treatment of Lymphedema

Tweet 

Manual lymph drainage (MLD) is one of the main components of complete decongestive therapy (CDT).  In combination with compression therapy, skin and nail care and decongestive exercises, MLD performs the crucial role of re-routing stagnated lymphatic fluid, which is essential in the treatment and management of primary and secondary lymphedema. This gentle manual . . . → Read More: Manual Lymph Drainage and it’s Role in the Treatment of Lymphedema

Lymphedema Affecting the Breast and Trunk

Tweet 

Lymphedema affecting the chest, breast and posterior thorax, also known as trunkal lymphedema, is a common problem following breast cancer surgery, but is often difficult to diagnose, especially if the patient does not also present with lymphedema of the arm, or it may be dismissed as a side-effect of  breast cancer surgery, which . . . → Read More: Lymphedema Affecting the Breast and Trunk

Options of Care for Compression Garments

Tweet 

The primary role of compression garments in lymphedema management is to maintain the reduction of the swelling achieved during the intensive treatment phase of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). A high level of consistency in providing the appropriate compression is crucial in order to avoid re-accumulation of evacuated lymphedema fluid. This consistency is provided . . . → Read More: Options of Care for Compression Garments

Pharmaceutical Options in the Treatment of Lymphedema

Tweet 

The use of drugs in the treatment of lymphedema in the Western Hemisphere is generally limited to antibiotics, which are used to prevent and treat infections commonly associated with lymphedema. As stated in the Position Paper of the National Lymphedema Network, lymphedema should not be treated exclusively with drugs or dietary supplements. Following . . . → Read More: Pharmaceutical Options in the Treatment of Lymphedema

When is it Lymphedema?

Tweet 

“After a day of sitting in the office my ankles are swollen.”

“During the last several months of my pregnancy, my legs practically doubled in size”

“My fingers and hand frequently get puffy following a long hike”

“My arm started swelling after I had surgery for my breast cancer”

“Following the removal of . . . → Read More: When is it Lymphedema?

Axillary Web Syndrome

Tweet 

A number of patients who underwent  axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) in combination with breast cancer surgery experience postoperative pain and limited range of motion associated with a palpable cord of tissue extending from the axilla into the arm on the same side. This condition is known as Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS), or Cording Syndrome is little . . . → Read More: Axillary Web Syndrome

Screening and Measurements for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema

Tweet 

The National Lymphedema Network (NLN) published a new Position Paper on “Screening and Measurements for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema” in response to recent developments in breast cancer related lymphedema.

The publication of this paper is vital new information for breast cancer survivors at risk for lymphedema. The NLN Medical Advisory . . . → Read More: Screening and Measurements for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema