At Healthy Being Wellness Center, under the direction of Lymph Therapist, Melissa Gallagher, we work with clients who suffer from Primary and Secondary Lymphedema and specialize in working with individuals who have experienced breast cancer treatment as well as other cancers, including melanoma, gynecologic cancer, head and neck cancer and sarcoma.

Lymphedema is caused by an abnormality of the lymphatic system leading to excessive build up of tissue fluid that forms lymph, known as interstitial fluid. Stagnant lymph fluid contains protein and cell debris that causes swelling of affected tissues. Lymph is responsible for transporting essential immune chemicals and cells. Left untreated, lymphedema leads to chronic inflammation, infection and hardening of the skin that, in turn, results in further lymph vessel damage and distortion of the shape of affected body parts.

Interstitial fluid can build up in any area of the body that has inadequate lymph drainage and cause lymphedema. Lymphedema is a condition that develops slowly and once present is usually progressive.

Treatment Options For Individuals with Lymphedema

Complete Decongestive therapy is also called Combined, Complex or Comprehensive Decongestive Therapy. All refer to the same method known as CDT. CDT is the main treatment for lymphedema. Experts who treat lymphedema consider CDT the â??gold standardâ? of treatment.  CDT has been shown to be safe and effective.  CDT consists of an initial reductive phase (Phase I) followed by a maintenance phase (Phase II).  In Phase I, the main goals are reducing the size of the affected part and improving the skin. After Phase I, the person with lymphedema needs to continue into Phase II, an ongoing, individualized selfâ? management phase to make sure the gains of Phase I are maintained long term.

At Healthy Being Wellness Center, Lymphatic Therapist Melissa Gallagher utilizes an advanced tool to administer a powerful form of CDT.  Using a frequency tool, Melissa Gallagher has helped numerous clients regain their mobility, ability to do daily tasks, recover from surgery faster, reduce swelling and assist in the body's natural lymphatic function.  Often clients experience a decreased lymphatic function from a series of traumas, surgeries, radiation and scar tissue build up.  Lymphatic Therapy protocols allow Melissa to work with clients on developing an individualized therapy program that suits their needs.  

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