Examinations and procedures

Lymphatic therapy is a specialized treatment for swelling (edema) and disorders of the lymphatic system. The service begins with an assessment of the client’s condition, based on which a certified lymphatic therapist creates an individual treatment plan.

Lymphatic therapy may include:

• manual lymphatic drainage
• compression therapy (bandaging and wearing compression garments or aids)
• exercise therapy (therapeutic exercises combined with compression)
• counseling
• skin care, if necessary
• scar treatment (combined with lymphatic taping)

Lymphatic therapy helps reduce swelling, improve circulation and overall well-being, and supports recovery after surgery, injuries, and chronic conditions.

When is lymphatic therapy recommended?

• Swelling after cancer treatment when surgery or radiation therapy has damaged lymphatic pathways or lymph nodes have been removed
• Post-traumatic bone demineralization (Morbus Sudeck syndrome, CRPS)
• Post-traumatic edema – lymphatic therapy can be started immediately, even if the limb is in a cast
• Before and after plastic (cosmetic) surgery
• Postoperative edema – therapy may begin immediately after surgery if there are no complications
• Post-thrombotic edema
• Scar-related problems (combined with lymphatic taping)
• Open venous ulcers and swelling caused by chronic venous insufficiency
• Chronic lymphatic drainage disorders (primary and secondary)
• Swelling caused by lack of movement, fatigue, excess body weight, tight clothing or jewelry, excessive heat, or hormonal disorders
• Open fractures and major trauma

Contraindications

• Acute infections (inflammation, fever, erysipelas)
• Heart failure (stage III–IV)
• Established hypotension (low blood pressure, < 105/60)
• Acute thrombosis
• Unexplained skin changes
• Severe general medical conditions
• Malignant tumors (except in palliative care)