The following questions are often asked by new patients as they prepare to begin their lymphedema treatment.

What is an intensive?
An intensive is a period of daily treatment designed to start reducing the swelling from your lymphedema and improving your general health. Depending on your condition you will receive daily treatment for a week or more.

What happens during the intensive time?
You will work daily with a therapist. In addition to receiving manual lymph drainage (MLD) treatment during your appointment, you will be fit with short-stretch bandages which are to be worn 24 hours per day. (Although these bandages look like Ace bandages, they are not the same!) You will also receive ongoing education concerning exercise and self massage and bandaging techniques.

Will I always have the same therapist?
You will be assigned one therapist who will be your primary care giver. However, each therapist works as part of a team with another therapist. On some days you may work with your primary therapist or her team member. All the therapists have the same treatment philosophy and are trained in the special needs of the lymphedema patient.

Can my family participate in my therapy?
Yes! We encourage spouses, family members or friends to participate in your therapy if you choose to include them. Family members can learn massage and bandaging techniques that will aid you in your home care program.

Bandages 24 hours per day? When do I get to shower?
Lymflo Therapies has a facility where you can shower after the bandages are removed. At the end of your treatment session bandages will be reapplied and these are to be worn until your next visit.

Will my clothes fit over my bandages and can I go out in public?
We encourage you to continue your normal activities during this time. Although the bandages may feel a little awkward at first, they should not restrict your activities. We suggest that you wear loose fitting clothing that will stretch enough to pull over 3 to 4 layers of bandages. If you are uncomfortable being seen in public with bandages, consider wearing a loose long sleeve garment to cover your arm or slacks or a long skirt to cover a bandaged leg.

My foot and leg are swollen. Am I going to be able to walk in these bandages?
Yes, you will be able to walk in these bandages; however, if you use a cane or walker now, you’ll want to continue using these aids during treatment.
IMPORTANT! If you have leg edema, please bring a cast shoe to fit the affected foot. This is a special open shoe that is made for people who are wearing braces or a cast. These shoes also work well for people who are wearing bandages. They can be purchased at a medical supply store and should be sized a little larger than your normal shoe size.

Am I going to have to keep wearing bandages after the intensive?
Not all patients need to keep using this type of bandage. If you do need to continue with this form of treatment, you will be taught how to apply the bandages yourself.

Will I need to be measured for garments?
Patients are usually measured for one or more specialized garments to be worn after their intensive treatment has been completed. After the swelling in the affected limb has been reduced you will be measured for a compression sleeve or stocking. This is to be worn during the day to help control swelling. This garment is not bulky and can easily be worn under clothing.

What is a compression device?
A Reid Sleeve, JoVi-Pak, Tribute of muff are the names of different compression devices that are made of foam and covered by fabric. They are worn primarily at night or as directed by your therapist. These compression aids are fit for the affected arm or leg and help to control swelling. They also work to relieve or prevent fibrotic (hardened) tissue in the affected limb. For many patients a choice of one of these devices replaces wearing bandages. Your insurance company may or may not cover the cost of bandages, devices and/or garments.

Why should an exercise program be part of my treatment?
The flow of lymph is stimulated by the movement of muscles. Some exercises and activities are very beneficial and others, such as repetitive motion, can be very harmful. It is important to learn what is right for you.

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