Lymphedema

Lymphedema (lim-fa-dee-ma): a lifelong health condition caused by a build up of lymph fluid in the tissues, leading to swelling (edema), pain, discomfort and the risk of infection.

What Causes Lymphedema

Some people are born with lymphedema due to a defect of the lymphatic system. Other people develop lymphedema as a result of damage to their lymphatic system, for example trauma, injury, a burn or, most commonly, as a result of treatment for some cancers.

Sign & Symptoms

  • Swelling in your breast, chest, shoulder, arm, or leg
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)
  • New aching, tingling or numbness
  • Feeling of heaviness
  • Less mobility in the joints of the arm or leg
  • Feeling that jewellery or clothing are tight even though you haven’t gained weight

What You Should Know

1. Up to one in four breast cancer survivors will develop lymphedema at some point in their life.

2. There is no cure for lymphedema at this time. It is a lifelong condition. When diagnosed and treated early, you can manage it. You can also prevent it from leading to more serious health problems.

3. It is important to stop lymphedema from getting worse, even when you have some permanent damage to the lymph system. Lymphedema in your arm or leg can lead to serious complications such as a bacterial infection of the skin (called cellulitis) or an infection of the lymphatic vessels (called lymphangitis).

4. Complete Decongestive Therapy, or CDT is the Gold Standard treatment for lymphedema management that includes Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), Compression Bandaging, Exercise, and Skin Care.

Lymphedema Treatment

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Patient education, including self-care and management
One of the most effective methods of treating lymphedema is the use of a technique known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage.  Manual Lymphatic Drainage (or MLD) is a gentle type of therapy typically used to drain excess fluid buildup from the body and improve the overall functioning of the lymphatic and immune system.  MLD is most commonly used in the treatment of lymphedema.

The massage used is a specific massage technique and is applied gently in the direction of the flow of lymphatic fluid through the lymphatic system, allowing excess fluid to be transported as waste from the body.  The MLD massage is applied as a light form of circular massage to the patient’s skin, and no massage lotions or oils are used in order for the therapy to be effective.  The technique encourages skin stretch and stimulates the lymph vessels to increase movement of lymphatic fluid through the body.
MLD massage should only be applied by a therapist who is trained and specialized in the technique.  
Lymphedema Treatment

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

CDT is a combination of MLD, bandaging of the affected areas, remedial exercises, and skin and nail care. CDT is divided into a two-phase program that initially involves an intensive treatment phase and is then followed by a maintenance program continued by the patient at home.
$75

30 Minutes – MLD

This appointment length would be suitable for a single area to be addressed, either for lymphatic drainage or bandaging session. Time constraints do not allow for both. Please note that bandages are not supplied as part of the appointment, and if needed, will incur additional charges.
$105

60 Minutes – MLD

This appointment length would be suitable for a single area to be addressed, either for lymphatic drainage or bandaging session. Time constraints do not allow for both. Please note that bandages are not supplied as part of the appointment, and if needed, will incur additional charges.
$45

Wrapping

This session can be combined with Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) session or on it’s own. Please note that bandages are not supplied as part of the appointment, and if needed, will incur additional charges.

Wayne

4.8
Builder
Marie-Anne has extensive knowledge of the anatomy. She understands what muscles are suppose to do, and has treated me for pain that my doctor for the past 3 months of specialists and testing couldn’t figure out. 
She is amazing!

Jacqueline

5.0
Teacher
After having a couple really rough days from coming home after a trip, jet lag really got the best of me.
Marie-Anne Hisem, you sensed my pain and helped me relax. You hit all the right spots and concentrated on things that needed extra attention. After my massage I already felt better. I had an amazing nights sleep and starting to feel like myself again.
Thank you.

Jess

4.8
City Worker
Marie-Anne does an amazing therapeutic massage.My husband had a massage recently and he suffers from chronic back pain. He said, “my back hasn’t felt this good in like 20 years”. Thank you!!!
Safety

We put the safety first

Your safety is the most important thing in our clinic. The clinic is disinfected after every client and has a HEPA Air Purifier constantly running.

Have any questions?

Feel free to contact us anytime – (905) 714-7353