This year, the Lymphedema Clinic at Baton Rouge General celebrates 20 years of services as the only comprehensive treatment program in Louisiana, bringing much needed relief those with lymphedema.
The clinic provided services to more than 500 cancer patients and others with lymphedema last year, alone.
Lymphedema, an abnormal buildup of fluid under the skin, can cause extreme and painful swelling in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body. Lymphedema affects up to 10 million Americans and is common after cancer surgery or radiation of the head, neck, breast, and legs. The resulting swelling can also occur after severe trauma, kidney disease, orthopedic surgery, or stroke.
Baton Rouge General’s Pennington Cancer Center boasts the state’s only comprehensive lymphedema program recognized by the National Lymphedema Network. Though there is currently no cure for lymphedema, symptoms can be treated with a combination of physical and occupational therapy, manual massage, compression bandages and garments, exercise, skin care, and pump therapy.
“When lymphedema goes untreated, it can cause long-term physical, psychological, and social problems,” said Christine Perkins, Licensed Registered Occupational Therapist at BRG’s Lymphedema Clinic. “But when patients get proper treatment, they can start feeling more like themselves and get back to life as they know it – and their immune systems get a much-needed boost to help fight future issues.”
BRG’s Lymphedema Clinic includes a prevention and screening process, certified licensed therapists who manage physical, occupational, and speech therapy, and support groups. In addition, BRG’s program has a therapeutic exercise and movement program that boosts the immune system and is free to anyone who has had cancer, radiation, chemotherapy, or any chronic disorder.
For more information on lymphedema and treatment options, call (225) 763-4050 or visit brgeneral.org/medical-services/cancer/diagnosis-and-treatment/rehabilitation/lymphedema-clinic.