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THE CARE THAT YOU DESERVE
Helping Those Affected With Or At Risk Of Primary Or Secondary Lymphedema
Over 20 Years Of Experience
Marie-Anne Hisem RMT, CLT has 22 years of experience as a Registered Massage Therapist. In March of 2024 she expanded her field of knowledge by obtained her certificate in Complete Decongestive Therapy with Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, adding management of lymphedema to her qualifications. With this added expertise a new dimension of care is available to those affected with or at risk of primary or secondary lymphedema in the Niagara Region. She is trained in Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder technique), Compression Therapy, Decongestive Exercise and Skin Care. She is also an ADP Authorizer for Lymphedema Management Devices with the Government of Ontario. She have a special interest in cancer and surgical rehabilitation.
Marie-Anne is fluent in both French and English, practicing in her own clinic located in Welland, Ontario. She worked as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario in 2012 through 2015 and has varied experience in chronic pain, sport injuries and Myofascial Release Therapy.
She provide the highest quality of Manual Therapy by integrating various technique and personalized assessments to treat each individual’s unique condition.
Marie-Anne is fluent in both French and English, practicing in her own clinic located in Welland, Ontario. She worked as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario in 2012 through 2015 and has varied experience in chronic pain, sport injuries and Myofascial Release Therapy.
She provide the highest quality of Manual Therapy by integrating various technique and personalized assessments to treat each individual’s unique condition.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a swelling of a body part usually occurring in the extremities. It is the result of the abnormal accumulation of protein-rich edema fluid in the affected area. Lymphedema is classified as either primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is the result of lymphatic dysplasia. It may be present at birth but more often develops later in life without obvious cause. Secondary lymphedema is much more common and is the result of surgery or is a side effect of radiation therapy for cancer. Secondary forms may also occur after injury, scarring, trauma, or infection of the lymphatic system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)?
CDT is an intensive program that combines four different treatment approaches, including manual Lymph drainage, compression bandaging, exercise, and skin care.
Phase I (the intensive phase) consists of the mobilization of fluid and the initiation of a decrease in the proliferated connective tissue. To achieve maximum effectiveness or significant results, it is highly recommended for patients to be treated at least 5 times, 1 session per week for several weeks.
Phase II (maintenance phase) maintains the swelling reduction and aims for optimization of connective tissue reduction.
CDT is an intensive program that combines four different treatment approaches, including manual Lymph drainage, compression bandaging, exercise, and skin care.
Phase I (the intensive phase) consists of the mobilization of fluid and the initiation of a decrease in the proliferated connective tissue. To achieve maximum effectiveness or significant results, it is highly recommended for patients to be treated at least 5 times, 1 session per week for several weeks.
Phase II (maintenance phase) maintains the swelling reduction and aims for optimization of connective tissue reduction.
What is Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)?
MLD is a specialized form of massage, carried out by a fully trained Certified Lymphedema Therapist. It consists of light, rhythmical pumping hand movements to stretch the skin and to encourage lymphatic drainage. The aim of MLD is to stimulate and improve normal drainage in healthy areas of the body so that fluid can drain away from more swollen/congested areas much more easily. MLD can also help reduce pain/discomfort as well as improve the hard, firm tissues that can be problematic.
MLD is a specialized form of massage, carried out by a fully trained Certified Lymphedema Therapist. It consists of light, rhythmical pumping hand movements to stretch the skin and to encourage lymphatic drainage. The aim of MLD is to stimulate and improve normal drainage in healthy areas of the body so that fluid can drain away from more swollen/congested areas much more easily. MLD can also help reduce pain/discomfort as well as improve the hard, firm tissues that can be problematic.
A Therapy Clinic That You Can Trust
Lymphedema should not be left untreated as it can gradually worsen and cause other health complications.
Complete decongestive therapy is an effective treatment for people with lymphedema. The many components of CDT help to manage your condition and improve your health-related quality of life.
Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor prior to starting treatment.
Complete decongestive therapy is an effective treatment for people with lymphedema. The many components of CDT help to manage your condition and improve your health-related quality of life.
Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor prior to starting treatment.