Lymphedema, a chronic swelling, is often the result of damage to the lymphatic system through surgery, radiation, trauma to the lymph vessels, or removal of lymph nodes. In other cases, venous insufficiencies, obesity, or genetic malformations of the lymph system can lead to lymphedema.
Without treatment, the appearance and function of your limb may permanently change. With treatment, you can manage lymphedema and get on with life.
Recognize the signs of lymphedema.
If you begin to develop any of these symptoms, call us right away:
- Feeling of fullness or heaviness in the affected limb
- One side of the body or limb larger than the other
- Skin tightness
- Difficulty moving a limb or joint
- Changes in skin texture (excessively dry, bumpy, rough, itchy or the color of orange peel)
- Skin pitting (when you press your finger against your skin, the imprint remains)
Where science and service come together.
Early treatment, in the right hands, can make all the difference. At the first signs of swelling, turn to the certified specialists who know what to do next:
- Top-rated therapy team: Missouri Baptist is the St. Louis area’s first and only National Lymphedema Network Affiliate Treatment Center. Our Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLT) use the gold standard of lymphedema therapy: Complete Decongestive Therapy.
- One-to-one care: Because our therapists treat only one patient at a time, you’ll have our full attention every time you visit. Our certified therapists will tailor a treatment plan to help ease your symptoms. While there is no cure for lymphedema, prompt care can help you enjoy life more comfortably.
- Convenient for you: You’ll have all the lymphedema therapy services you need, all in one place. We offer extended morning and evening hours Monday through Friday. And we offer valet and garage parking, right next to the hospital’s Main Entry.
Most of all, we’re here to make your lymphedema therapy as comfortable and productive as possible. So you can relax and focus on reducing your swelling and feeling better. We invite you to come see the difference our therapy center can make.
How does Complete Decongestive Therapy work?
Your therapy occurs in two phases:
Intensive Phase: Depending on your needs, daily treatments may include manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, targeted exercises and meticulous skin and nail care. During this phase, you’ll also learn how to care for yourself and maintain your swelling reduction.
Maintenance Phase: Once we’ve reduced the swelling, you’re ready to begin managing lymphedema at home. Your maintenance plan may include compression garments, bandaging, meticulous skin and nail care, targeted exercises and self-massage. We may also recommend follow-up visits with your therapist, as needed.
For more information regarding these services or to schedule an appointment at MoBap, please call 314-996-3500.