Complete Decongestive Therapy

Complete Decongestive Therapy

1. Manual Lymph Drainage

Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a special treatment technique which utilizes lymphatic pathways to empty and decompress fluid-filled areas, allowing the limb to return to normal or near normal size.

2. Compression Therapy

Compression therapy occurs with each MLD treatment. Multiple layers of low stretch bandages are applied to the limb in order to achieve a graded compression to prevent the area from refilling with evacuated fluid. In a later phase of treatment, compression garments are worn.

 3. Decongestive Exercises

Specific lymphedema exercises are prescribed. While wearing the bandages, exercises activate muscle and joints, which results in increased lymph flow and, over time, decreased swelling of the limb.

4. Skin and Nail Care

Because infections can be a serious complication of lymphedema, each patient is instructed in meticulous hygiene to eliminate bacterial and fungal growth in order to reduce the chance of infection.

For more information or to make an appointment at
Green Spring Station, please call 410-583-2665.

For appointments at the Johns Hopkins downtown clinic, please call 410-614-3234.