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Lymphedema Clinic

Lymphedema can be a debilitating condition, yet few people are aware of what it is or what treatment is available in our community. Fortunately, a healing touch can be found at Eden Medical Center.

What is Lyphedema?

Lyphedema is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid that causes swelling, usually in the arms and legs and occassionaly in other parts of the body. The swelling develops from abnormal lymphatic flow as a result of cancer surgery, radiation treatment, infection, trauma, vein problems, obesity or hereditary causes.

The human body has a network of lymph nodes and vessels that carry and remove lymphatic fluid the same way blood vessels circulate blood to all parts of the body. Lymphatic fluid contains white blood cells, which help fight infections. Within the lymph vessels, there are valves and muscles that help move the fluid through the body. The lymph nodes serve as filters for harmful substances and help fight infection.

If lymph nodes are not functioning normally and fluid builds up, nutrients cannot reach tissue, such as skin, and waste products are not removed. The resulting lymphedema can lead to infections, discolorations and changes in the skin, hardening of the tissues and skin, limited function or mobility, and other serious side effects.

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How Lymphedema Affects You

Lymphedema affects the body, and therefore the quality of life, in many ways:

Swollen body part
Heaviness of body part
Limitation of movement
Repeated infections
Thickening and breakdown of skin
Leakage of lymph through the skin
Cosmetic problems
High medical expenses
Decrease in quality of life
Decrease in overall health
Emotional distress

Specialized Treatment

While there is no cure for lymphedema, specialized therapy can help relieve symptoms and reduce the debilitating long-term effects.

The staff of Eden's Lymphedema Clinic provides consultation, evaluation and treatment for those with edema (swelling). Treatment is completely non-invasive and consists of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a gentle, rhythmic European massage technique. It has cleansing, relaxing and positive effects on the immune system. Treatment also includes compression bandages or garments, exercises, skin care, and education.

"The wrong treatment technique can actually worsen the lymphedema. Our therapists complete extensive training to become certified, and we have routine evaluation every two years to ensure our technique is correct," said Allyn Martinez, MA, OT, LLT-LANA. "We're constantly learning for the sake of our patients."

Eden’s therapists are certified in the Vodder technique and by the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA), a non-profit corporation of healthcare professionals experienced in the field of lymphedema.

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Our Therapists

Eden's Lymphedema Clinic has therapists certified in Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and MLD treatment.

Allyn Martinez earned a BA degree in human biology from Stanford University, an MA degree in occupational therapy from the University of Southern California and post-graduate certification form the Vodder School of North America. She is also certified by LANA.

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Self-Care

After therapy has been completed, patients are prepared for continuing the exercises, skin care and lifestyle adaptations they have learned. Compression bandages or garments must be worn during the day, and self-bandaging may be required at night. These should be replaced every 4 to 6 months as they lose their elasticity over time. Our lymphedema therapists educate patients on how to monitor and manage their own condition so that they can inform their physician as needed.

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Contact Our Clinic

The Lymphedema Clinic at:
Outpatient Rehabilitation Services
14207 East 14th Street
San Leandro CA 94578

To schedule an appointment or to speak with our therapists, contact Allyn Martinez at (510) 618-1804.

Get more information about lymphedema in our online Health Library.
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