Historically, lymphedema diagnosis and management has fallen under the oncology specialty. However, with the revision of Starling’s law and the expanding awareness of the glycocalyx membrane relative to interstitial tissue hemodynamics, there is a need to reevaluate this position. Edema, both in the acute and chronic presentations, occur across the rehabilitative treatment continuum. Management of the edema is imperative to minimize the potential negative secondary sequelae including but not limited to loss of motion, altered gait and balance, altered fit of prosthetic/orthotic devices, impaired wound healing and chronic pain and dysfunction. It is imperative that ALL rehabilitation professionals, both generalist and clinical specialist, have some knowledge regarding lymphatic anatomy and physiology. It is also important that they recognize clinical presentation of lymphatic impairment and the basics to incorporate integumentary rehab approach, inclusive of components of a modified complete decongestive therapy (mCDT). Components of mCDT to be discussed, include, skin and wound care, manual lymphatic drainage, and compression.

This session, provided by both physical and occupational therapists, will outline mCDT components that can be added to a plan of care across multiple disciplines for patients with varying diagnosis to optimize functional outcomes.