Congratulations to Maddie Engelstad, MOTR/L, RiverView Health’s newest Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT). Engelstad provides lymphedema management through Home Care and Rehab Services.
Lymphedema is a non-curable, chronic condition in which excess fluid collects in tissues, causing swelling that can be severe and debilitating.
Engelstad is in good company as a CLT at RiverView. She joins fellow occupational therapist Michelle Moen and physical therapists Lori Hefta and Ashley Leines in certification.
Riverview’s CLTs offer Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), an intensive program combining different treatment approaches.
- Manual lymph drainage
- Compression and bandaging
- Skincare
- Exercise
Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of CDT for improving lymphedema symptoms.“Lymphedema management can improve pain, swelling, skin integrity, and range of motion,’’ Engelstad shared. “It can also improve overall circulation and decrease susceptibility to infection, such as cellulitis.’’
Along with specialized massage techniques and compression garments/wraps, RiverView therapists may also use a machine similar to a blood pressure cuff to gently move fluid out of the affected area, making movement and everyday activities more accessible for the patient. Activities that get the heart pumping and make breathing harder can also bring down swelling.
“So often, I hear patients describing themselves as feeling ‘lighter’ or that their skin isn’t as ‘tight.’ following treatment sessions,’’ she reported. “The main feedback I receive from patients is they are much more comfortable following lymphedema treatments.’’
Engelstad encourages anyone suffering from lymphedema to try CDT. “Every patient I have seen reports that one or more of the components of lymphedema management improves their symptoms. My goal is to find the combination of techniques to improve your pain and swelling and find a solution that works
for you.’’
For more information on lymphedema services at RiverView, please call Rehab Services at 281.9463.
