Complete decongestive therapy (CDT) is a noninvasive treatment for lymphedema. The therapy includes a variety of techniques, including manual lymphatic drainage, compression, exercise and skin care.

What are decongestive exercises?

The exercise that is usually prescribed for lymphedema is called decongestive remedial exercise. It involves active, non-resisted movements that follow a specific order from proximal to distal and back proximally. The exercises start at the neck, move to the chest wall and then down the arm, and back.

How long does lymphedema treatment last?

Lymphedema treatment with CDT lasts anywhere from two weeks to three months, depending on severity and how the body responds to the treatment.

How do you decongest lymphedema?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A light skin stretching technique that stimulates the lymphatic system. Compression: Layered bandaging with foam or specially fitted garments that support the area to control swelling. Exercises: With compression, special exercises will help to pump lymph out of the swollen area.

What are the components of complete decongestive therapy?

Complete decongestive therapy is considered the mainstay of lymphedema treatment. It consists of 4 components- 1) Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), 2) compression bandaging, 3) exercises to enhance lymphatic drainage, and 4) skin care [17, 18].

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) to Treat Lymphedema

How effective is decongestive lymphatic therapy?

In summary, there is some evidence (grade B) that decongestive treatments effectively reduce lymphedema in women with early BCRL (i.e. duration of <12 months or a mean of nine months), whether provided as CDT or compression bandaging with or without MLD (see Table 9).

What does draining lymph nodes do?

Through a network of hundreds of lymph nodes, it drains fluid called lymph to be transported back into your bloodstream. It also removes bodily waste and carries white blood cells that help prevent infection.

Can a physical therapist treat lymphedema?

Physical therapists with special training can help control and manage lymphedema through Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT consists of four parts including Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) which is a gentle hands-on technique, meticulous skin care, compression bandaging/garments, and decongestive exercises.

What is CDT therapy?

Complete decongestive therapy (CDT) is a noninvasive treatment for lymphedema. The therapy includes a variety of techniques, including manual lymphatic drainage, compression, exercise and skin care.

What should you not do with lymphedema?

Avoid trauma or injury to the affected area. Avoid heavy lifting with the affected arm. No new tattoos in the affected area. Do not wear tight clothing, bands, shoes, or jewelry on the affected area.

What is the best exercise for lymphedema?

Always ask your lymphoedema specialist for advice and talk to your doctor before you start. Some good types of exercise include swimming, walking, doing stretching exercises and yoga. Swimming is helpful if you have problems with your joints, as it does not put strain on them.

Does lymphedema ever go away?

Lymphedema can't be cured, but you can control the swelling and keep it from getting worse. Getting to and staying at a healthy weight may make it better, but "water pills" usually won't. Specialized lymphedema therapists can also help you manage the condition.

What is CDT massage?

Complete decongestive therapy (CDT), also called complex decongestive therapy, is an intensive program that combines many of the different treatment approaches discussed in this section, including bandaging, compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and self care.

How effective is CDT?

In a relevant study conducted by Yamamoto, CDT was applied in 82 women for a median duration of six and 10 days for upper or lower limb lymphedema. Results showed a 58.9% edema reduction for the upper limb and 73.4% for the lower limb [25].

What does the start of lymphedema look like?

Lymphedema signs and symptoms include: Swelling of part or all of the arm or leg, including fingers or toes. A feeling of heaviness or tightness. Restricted range of motion.

How can I increase lymph circulation in my legs?

1. Exercise. Regular exercise is key for a healthy lymphatic system. ...
2. Alternative Treatments. ...
3. Hot and Cold Showers. ...
4. Use Dry Brushing. ...
5. Drink Clean Water. ...
6. Avoid Wearing Tight Clothes. ...
7. Breathe Deeply. ...
8. Eat Foods That Promote Lymph Flow.

How can I reduce the swelling in my legs from lymphedema?

1. Wrap: A bandage or compression garment can help reduce swelling and get lymph fluid moving back up from your legs toward your heart. ...
2. Exercise: Specific, gentle lymphedema exercises for the legs can help improve lymph fluid drainage.

How do you know if your lymphatic system is blocked?

If the lymphatic system is compromised, the immune system is compromised.
...
Here are the 19 symptoms of a clogged immune system:

1. Swelling in your fingers (rings fitting more tightly?)
2. Feeling stiff and sore when you wake up in the morning.
3. Cold hands and feet.
4. Brain fog.
5. Chronic fatigue.
6. Depression.
7. Bloating.
8. Excess weight.

Does heat help drain lymph nodes?

Begin with hot or warm water in the shower and after a couple of minutes, change the water temperature to cold water. The heat will make the vessels larger and the sudden drop in temperature will make the lymphatic vessels quickly shrink, squeezing the lymphatic fluid and forcing it to flow through the system.

Should you massage swollen lymph nodes neck?

Massage the front of your neck to help reduce swelling. This massage will move the lymph fluid from your neck to your chest. Place your hand on the front of your neck where you have swelling. Move your hand down your neck towards your collar bone and chest.

What causes a swollen lymph node in armpit?

Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit can be a sign of common viral infections, such as the flu or mono. They can also occur as a result of a bacterial infection or RA. In rare cases, swollen lymph nodes are a symptom of cancer. Warm compresses and OTC pain medication can ease any pain or tenderness.

How do you unclog your armpit lymph nodes?

1. Apply a warm compress. Apply a warm, wet compress, such as a washcloth dipped in hot water and wrung out, to the affected area.
2. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. ...
3. Get adequate rest.

How can I naturally drain my lymph nodes in my neck?

away from the head and neck

Place you hand on your collarbone. Move your hand down toward your underarm. This massage will move the lymph fluid from your neck and chest to your underarm lymph nodes. Gently stretch the skin (not muscles) down your chest and towards your underarm.