Complex Decongestive Therapy

**PLEASE NOTE: you must book a consultation appointment to discuss treatment plans before booking CDT** Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the most effective treatment for chronic extremity edema. Primary lymphedema (congenital) and secondary lymphedema (due to a damaged lymphatic system) respond extremely well to this gentle, non-invasive and highly-effective therapy. CDT is comprised of 4 pillars involving... Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) MLD is a very gentle manual treatment which improves the function of the lymphatic system throughout the body. In lymphedema therapy, MLD is used to re-route lymph flow around blocked areas and into healthy lymph vessels which drain into the venous circulation. MLD is also an effective treatment for post-surgical swelling, post-traumatic edema (as with sports injuries), migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other conditions involving edema. Compression Therapy Compression therapy increases tissue pressure and improves the efficiency of the muscle and joint pump. Multi-layered compression bandages are applied between MLD treatments to help prevent re-accumulation of evacuated fluid. Once the patient’s limb is sufficiently decongested through repeated treatments, they can be fit with compression garments. Exercises Exercises are performed with compression bandages in place to activate the muscle and joint pumps of the affected extremity. This results in an increase in lymphokinetic activity and further reduction of the swollen limb over time. Skin Care Skin care and general hygiene are essential to eliminate bacterial and fungal growth which can cause repeated attacks of cellulitis or erysipelas. Infections are very common complications of lymphedema so meticulous skin and nail care is a vital component of treatment.