We Examine 4 Main Components of Complete Decongestive Therapy

If you’re seeking treatment options for lymphedema, complete decongestive therapy (CDT) is considered the gold standard in managing the condition. CDT is a comprehensive, noninvasive approach that can reduce lymphedema-related swelling, improve lymphatic flow, and enhance your overall quality of life.

CMC Rehabilitation Services has certified lymphedema therapists trained in complete decongestive therapy. If you feel you could benefit from these services, speak with your physician for a referral or call us at 843-347-8066 for more information.

What Are the 4 Main Components of Complete Decongestive Therapy?

Complete decongestive therapy (CDT) is a treatment for lymphedema, a condition in which the lymphatic system is not working properly, causing fluids to accumulate in the tissues, which results in swelling. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as pain and skin infections.

Lymphedema requires long-term management and specialized treatment from a skilled lymphedema therapist.

The 4 main components of complete decongestive therapy include:

1. Manual lymph drainage (MLD)

This involves using gentle, rhythmic massage to stimulate the lymphatic system. It helps release and move trapped fluid so it can be reabsorbed into the body.

2. Compression

 The use of external pressure on the tissues through compression wraps or bandages encourages lymphatic fluid movement and helps reduce swelling.

3. Skin care

Keeping skin clean is essential for preventing complications like skin infections and other skin problems. Moisturizing is also important, as compression wraps or bandages can make your skin dry and itchy, increasing the risk of skin issues.

4. Exercise

Regular low-impact exercise can help improve lymphatic flow, reduce swelling, and enhance overall well-being.

Who Can Benefit from Complete Decongestive Therapy?

Lymphedema can happen as a result of certain health conditions and treatments, including injuries, infections, and cancer and its treatments. Conditions that indirectly affect lymphatic drainage include heart or vascular diseases.

Secondary causes of lymphedema, such as medical treatment side effects, injuries, and chronic cellulitis, are common.

Anyone with lymphedema, no matter the cause, can benefit from complete decongestive therapy.

What Are the Different Phases of CDT?

Complete decongestive therapy happens in two phases. The goal of this combination of treatments is to:

• Reduce swelling
• Improve skin condition
• Increase mobility
• Minimize the risk of infection

Phase One: Active Phase

Phase one, sometimes referred to as the reductive, intensive or decongestion phase, focuses on reducing visible swelling and allowing the skin to improve. It involves a combination of manual lymph drainage, compression, skin care and exercise. This phase may last 2 to 8 weeks, depending on how long it takes for symptoms to improve.

Based on the severity of your condition, your lymphedema specialist may recommend that you wear compression garments for up to 23 hours during phase one, removing them only for manual lymphatic drainage, showering or bathing, and otherwise cleaning and caring for your skin.

Phase Two: Maintenance Phase

Phase two of CDT therapy focuses on maintaining results from phase one on your own and should be started right after phase one so that swelling does not return.

Depending on how serious your condition is, you may remain in this phase for months, years, and possibly the rest of your life.

Based on your lymphedema specialist’s recommendations, phase two may include compression garments, skin care, exercise, and self-manual lymphatic drainage in which you gently massage your own body to help move lymphatic fluid.

How Effective is CDT for Lymphedema?

CDT is the most effective way to treat lymphedema. The multi-faceted CDT approach combines several therapies to provide excellent long-term results in both primary and secondary lymphedema, including reduced swelling, improved lymphatic flow and the return of comfort and mobility. 

Get Expert Care from Our Experienced Lymphedema Therapists

If you’re seeking relief from lymphedema symptoms, we can help. Our skilled lymphedema therapists provide complete decongestive therapy, the gold standard in treating the condition. We’re dedicated to helping you manage your symptoms effectively and achieve the highest possible quality of life.

Get in touch with one of our lymphedema specialists today to discover how our expert team can support you.