Lymphedema & Complete Decongestive Therapy: What Every Clinician Needs to Know

• •Describe the lymphatic system and the flow patterns of lymph in the body


• •Outline the components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)


• •Apply Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD) techniques for upper body


• •Demonstrate standard decongestive exercise protocol, as well as "4 Minute Fitness" decongestive exercises


• •Describe the best methods for donning/doffing compression garments


• •Evaluate how and when to refer patients to a certified lymphedema therapist

Lymphedema requires patients to commit to their wellbeing full time, but when the process becomes too difficult, selfndash;care routines tend to fall away. This puts patients at risk of exacerbation, infection and more. Over time, other health issues arise until suddenly they need assistance with maintaining their routines.

Not every therapist wants to be certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy, but every health care provider needs to know the basics, when and how to help, and when to refer out. In this hands–on seminar, you?ll learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of lymphedema and explore complete decongestive therapy treatment plans, including assessment, massage, skin care, compression, exercise, and patient education. Exercise is an integral part of selfndash;care, and this seminar will prepare you classic decongestion exercises as well as a routine called 4 Minute Fitness™, which makes this process more fun and can be used with other patient populations as well. Combining over 30 years of clinical practice and the latest research, Barbara Ingramndash;Rice, OT, LMT, CLT, CHC, provides a firm foundation for working with lymphedema patients along with invaluable pearls from her time in the field.