In the twentieth century, physicians and therapists have practiced lymphatic drainage using precise rhythmical hand movements.
Today, Bruno Chikly,M.D., D.O. has enhanced the practice of LDT by creating techniques of mapping the bodies lymph flow and then, remapping the fluid flow after disease, surgery, or trauma.
LDT is helpful in draining excess fluid from the tissues. It has a detoxifying effect as well. Scientific studies and years of clinical experience show that LDT is generally effective in treating more than sixty medical conditions (see list below).
Treatment is offered by Mission in both the Rehab and Sports Clinic and in the Wound Therapy Center.
Schedule your Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT)
Lymphatic Drainage Therapy may help people with:
- Lymphedema following surgery, such as mastectomy or knee surgery, or from scarring in the armpit, or from radiation therapy
- Any chronic swelling, including swelling that has led to broken skin
- Swelling due to circulation problems
- Swelling associated with morbid obesity
The treatment is NOT for people who have sudden swelling, or swelling caused by infection.
About our therapist
At Mission, Lymph Drainage Therapy is provided by Emily Sansbury, PT, a licensed physical therapist with additional certification in Lymph Drainage Therapy and Comprehensive Decongestive Physiotherapy. Emily was trained and certified at the Upledger Institute, including Lymph Drainage Therapy with Bruno Chikly,M.D., D.O. and Comprehensive Decongestive Physiotherapy by Renee Romero M.S., R.N., LANA.
About the treatment
Lymph Drainage Therapy is a gentle technique that the physical therapist performs by hand. She delicately stimulates the skin and the underlying lymphatic vessels, gently easing excess fluid towards the heart. Sessions generally last 1 to 1½ hours. Patients say there is little or no discomfort during the treatment, and often find it relaxing. Some experience immediate relief afterwards.
In addition, the therapist talks with patients about home exercise programs and self drainage techniques to promote continued improvement and greater well-being.
Referral and reimbursement
If you think Lymph Drainage Therapy might help you, talk with your physician. Physician referral is required. The treatment is usually reimbursed under physical therapy benefits.
Schedule your Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT)
Patients may contact Mission's Rehab and Sports Clinic at 828-213-0850.
Patients with wounds may contact the Mission Wound Therapy Center directly at 213-4600 and press 2 or may schedule through Mission's One-Call Center: 213-2222 and press 2.
For more information call Mission's Wound Therapy Center
at 828-213-4600 or toll free at 888-737-0098.
