Living Well After Breast Cancer: Understanding Lymphedema Therapy
For many women, the impact of breast cancer does not end when treatment is complete. Surgery and radiation can leave lasting changes to the body, including lymphedema, a condition that may cause swelling, discomfort, and reduced mobility in a hand, arm or leg, sometimes long after cancer has been treated. Lymphedema therapy is often a good option.
Maddy Mason, Certified Lymphedema Therapist and Occupational Therapist at Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village, said, “Left untreated, this condition can take a tremendous physical and toll on a person’s health and wellbeing. Early intervention with lymphedema therapy can be key. And because Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village is open to the public and accepts most insurances, these services are available to people from across the Kansas City, Lee’s Summit, Independence, and Blue Springs areas, as well as those living at John Knox Village.”
Maddy adds that people can also develop lymphedema from causes unrelated to breast cancer, she added, like an injury, a heart condition, a genetic condition, or surgery for other types of cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Lymphedema
If you notice these changes in your body, be sure to let your physician know:
- A heavy, full, or tight feeling in the area where you had surgery or radiation therapy.
- Swelling in an arm or leg that makes it appear larger than the other.
- A dent that remains in the skin after pressing a finger on the swollen area.
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area that increases over time.
- Discoloration and hardening of the skin can develop with long-term, untreated lymphedema.
Because lymphedema is a complex condition, it’s important to seek out a Certified Lymphedema Therapist who is experienced in providing Complete Decongestive Therapy. These specialized lymphedema therapies can help patients manage symptoms and can make a truly meaningful difference in comfort, independence, function, and quality of life through evidence-based treatment such as manual lymph drainage, skin and nail care for the affected limb, compression wrapping and lymphatic decongestive exercises, and to teach patients how to manage their condition effectively.
To learn more about lymphedema therapy, call Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village at 816-944-3280, or speak with your healthcare provider.
About Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village
Outpatient Therapy by John Knox Village is conveniently located in Lee’s Summit, near the intersection of I-470 and US Highway 50, at 600 NW Murray Rdl, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081. (Look for their entrance to the left of the main entrance to the building.) [Map]
They are open to the public, accept most insurances, and specialize in caring for older patients through Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. Specialized services include lymphedema theapy, LSVT BIG® and LSVT LOUD® therapies for those with Parkinson’s disease,vestibular therapy ,as well as pre- and post-joint replacement surgery therapy.
About John Knox Village
John Knox Village is a leader in senior living services in Lee’s Summit and the greater KC region. The community boasts a diverse range of living options from freestanding homes and apartment homes to villas. With more than 700,000 square feet of common space across the beautiful campus, you’ll find more opportunities and experiences right outside your door.
If you’re exploring Life Plan Communities in Lee’s Summit or the Kansas City area, we’d love to show you all that John Knox Village has to offer. Contact us today, call (816) 251-8000 to schedule a visit, or register for one of our upcoming events.
