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Lymphedema

Lympedema is an abnormal accumulation of water and proteins in the tissues underneath the skin. It is a condition that is progressive and will only worsen if left untreated.

The lymphatic system is responsible for moving fluid from the body back into the circulatory system. Lymphedema can occur when there has been damage to the lymphatic system making the transport capacity decreased.

Here in the U.S., the main cause for damage to the lymphatic system is from surgical removal of lymph nodes in cancer treatment, with breast cancer being the most common. Treatment for lymphedema involves a specific kind of massage to move fluid out of the affected areas followed by compression of the area to prevent the return of fluid to the region.

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Lymphedema, Breast Cancer, and PT:

An estimated one third of women who undergo axillary lymph node dissection during breast cancer treatment develop lymphedema. Physical Therapy after breast cancer reduces lymphedema, ensures better outcomes, and increases the survival rate.

Physical Therapy treatment post-breast cancer can:

  • Increase postural endurance
  • Improve function
  • Decrease risk of lymphedema
  • Increase aerobic activity
  • Improve shoulder range of motion
  • Aid in developing lifelong physical activity program
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Lymphedema Treatment Locations

State Ave

8437 State Avenue
Kansas City, KS 66112
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Frequently Asked Questions

  • A physical therapy visit lasts about 40-60 minutes. The actual contents of the visit vary based on your diagnosis/need, but typically what happens is:

    1. You check in with the receptionist, make any appointments necessary, and we discuss your health insurance benefits with you.
    2. You go into the gym. You can change clothes if you need to, then begin therapy.
    3. You perform 6-8 various exercises and stretches. These can include therapeutic band exercises, light body weight exercises, or minimal weights. The stretches will promote strength, stability, improved range of motion, and pain relief.
    4. We can initiate other techniques to include manual work, taping, cupping, and dry needling as needed.
    5. The therapist makes recommendations based on your progress. These can include altering the frequency of visits, making additions/alterations to your home exercise plan, or things to do before your next visit.

  • We recommend budgeting 40-60 minutes for a typical therapy session. The only exception to this will be your first visit, which can take about 20 minutes longer due to the physical therapy evaluation your therapist will provide. We also recommend showing up about 10-15 minutes early to your first visit. This way, you can complete the paperwork before your visit time and streamline the process.

  • If we are asking you to do something that is hurting too much, let us know! Physical therapy should not be severely painful. It is not common to be so sore that patients are in pain or it affects their daily life. If this ever happens during or after an appointment, let us know and we will adapt your program.

  • During your initial evaluation, your therapist may ask you a number of questions to determine what the cause of your pain is. This can include questions about your sleep habits, activity level, and work environment. They will also ask for a medical history, and then typically ask direct questions about where and when you experience pain.

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