The lymphedema management program at Cooper University Health Care includes three certified lymphedema therapists (two physical therapists and one physical therapy assistant) who have completed accredited training programs. We treat individuals with primary (genetic/congenital) or secondary lymphedema which is caused by trauma, surgery, lymph node dissection, radiation, or chronic venous insufficiency.
Who may benefit:
Patients with edema of the head, neck, arms, legs, trunk, or genitals that is not relieved by elevation or diuretics, and is not caused by a blood clot, cardiac insufficiency, or peripheral artery disease.
Program components:
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) (light massage to assist with fluid movement/drainage)
- Compression bandaging (multi-layered wrap of padding; foam; and short, stretch bandages)
- Patient education (the lymphatic system/lymphedema, skin care, precautions, self-MLD/bandaging, and management of lymphedema)
- Therapeutic exercise to promote lymphatic flow and stretching/strengthening
- Manual stretching/soft tissue mobilization
- Wound care needs
- Assist patient to secure compression garments for daily use
- Intensive treatment is ideally five times a week until maximum reduction is achieved (though frequency is tailored to meet patient’s needs)
Goals:
- Halt progression of lymphedema
- Independent self-management of lymphedema (with caregiver support if needed)
- Reduce girth, pain, and disfigurement
- Reduce risk of infection
- Improve functional use of affected limb
To refer a patient, place an order in Epic for Lymphedema Evaluation and Treatment.
Locations:
Cooper Bone and Joint Physical Therapy
900 Centennial Boulevard
Building 2, Suite 203
Voorhees
Phone: 856.325.6674
Cooper University Hospital
One Cooper Plaza, Kelemen Building, 5th Floor
Camden
Phone: 856.342.2739
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions:
Emily Kubat, PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, at kubat-emily@cooperhealth.edu
Anna Porch, PT, DPT, CLT, at porch-anna@cooperhealth.edu
Melissa Szasz, PTA, CLT, at szasz-melissa@cooperhealth.edu