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Patient Information
While Lymphedema is not curable, Lymphedema therapy is instrumental in controlling the condition and easing symptoms. Methods of Lymphedema therapy include manual lymph drainage performed by a trained therapist, exercise, weight loss, proper nutrition and skin care, and compression therapy.
Compression therapy provides the necessary resistance over the affected tissue to return the excess fluid accumulation to normal circulation in the lymphatic system. Compression therapy is usually administered by the use of elastics, such as bandages and pressure garments, and pneumatic compression devices.
Pneumatic compression devices consist of inflatable garments controlled by an electrical pneumatic pump that intermittently inflates and deflates the garment (or sleeve) with compressed air in varying intervals and pressures. Pneumatic compression is an effective form of Lymphedema therapy because it helps pump stagnant fluids back into the lymphatic system.
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