What is Lymphedema?

It is referred to the swelling caused by the buildup of lymphatic fluid in the tissues. It is a chronic and progressive disorder that usually worsens over time if not treated. If you answer "YES" to any of the following symptoms, you may have Lymphedema...

• A feeling of heaviness and limitation of movement in a limb.
• Repeated infections in the affected area.
• Skin thickening, clear fluid leaking from the skin onto clothing.
• Sudden swelling and conditions worsens over time.
• Altered lifestyle due to physical symptoms.

The Treating Practitioner:

Ana Pozzoli,   is a  Licensed Physical Therapist and a LANA Certified Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist with over twenty-years of clinical experience. She utilizes Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) massages to treat Lymphedema cases. These treatments have succesfully been utilized in Europe for decades. It is composed of: Manual Lymph Drainage (massage) to the affected limb(s) and adjacent quadrants; meticulous skin care; compression bandaging; a customized exercise program; patient and family education and selections of compression garments for long term results.  
We Guarantee noticeable improvements after a few sessions.

PLEASE NOTE:  A few healthcare practitioners and some physicians, whom most likely have a financial gain in selling you a compression pump, will tell you not to bother with manual techniques. Don't be fooled, we hope that you visit www.lymphnet.org and decide for yourself. This website is a NON-PROFIT organization website and offers educational materials on the subject.   

OmniTherapy Center does not recommend nor endorse any mechanical compression pumps. Most pumps move fluid from the affected limb to other parts of the body. This is the reason why your limb goes back to its original size an hour or two after pumping yourself. This could be causing more harm than good so STOP and see a LANA certified Lymphedema Specialist today.However, there are new advances in compressive mechanical devices that simulate manual lymph drainage. With proper education and guidance by a LANA certified therapist favorable results can be achieved.

ALSO NOTE: Many general Physicians, massage therapists and Physical or Occupational Therapists have a limited understanding of Lymphedema.  Lymphatic Swelling versus Vascular Swelling is NOT the same. This mis-diagnosis could be a grave mistake. Water pills could dehydrate a Lymphedema patient. Vascularity swelling of the legs are treated differently.  If water pills (diuretics) are not reducing swelling accordingly it may be a lymphatic problem. Please, consult  your doctor if you suspect differently and  ask questions.