Today is National Lymphedema Day. Campbell County Health
Rehabilitation Services and
Home Medical Resources in Gillette, Wyoming want to give a shout out to those suffering from
lymphedema. They know the struggle and pain that
lymphedema can cause, and want you to know that they can help you feel better.
Lymphedema refers to swelling that generally occurs in an arm or leg, or
both, as part of cancer treatment. Lymphedema is most commonly caused
by the removal of or damage to lymph nodes and results from a blockage
in the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system. The blockage
prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid buildup leads to swelling.
While there is presently no cure for lymphedema, it can be managed with
early diagnosis and diligent care of affected limbs. Care and treatment
include light exercises, wrapping the affected limb, manual lymph drainage,
and compression garments.
CCH Home Medical Resources are your local compression garment experts and
CCH Rehabilitation Services has highly trained physical and occupational
therapists, and aides, who specialize in
lymphedema treatment. Therapy visits are available within 24 hours and you don’t need
a physician order to be seen.
To learn more, contact Rehabilitation Services at 307.688.8000 or visit
www.cchwyo.org/cancerrehab. To check out what compression garments are available at Home Medical
Resources, visit them at 901 W. Second Street, across from the Rockpile
Museum; or call 307.688.6260.