Lymphedema Therapy Services
GAINESVILLE Lymphedema Therapy Services
Antje Webernick, OTR, MSOT, CLT-ALM
Certified Lymphedema Therapist
Advanced Lymphedema Management
Antje graduated in 2013 from Belmont University with a Master’s of Science in Occupational Therapy. She became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies in 2016. She is also certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) and Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD). She completed certification for Advanced Lymphedema Management in 2019.
What is Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a disease process that occurs when the lymph vessels are unable to adequately drain or transport lymph fluid back into circulation. Lymphedema is the abnormal accumulation of protein and water in the interstitial space that results in chronic swelling. This swelling can be painful and cause difficulty with activities of daily living. The swelling can occur in the arms, legs, neck/face, chest, back and genitals. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and collects bacteria and viruses through the lymph vessels to the lymph nodes and then they are flushed
from the body. If the lymphatic system is damaged, then compression is needed to help push out the fluid. There is no cure for lymphedema. Once you are diagnosed with lymphedema, you will have it for the rest of your life.
What Causes Lymphedema?
Lymphedema is caused by a known insult to the lymphatic system, such as surgery, radiation, trauma, cancer, chronic venous insufficiencies, or it could be present at birth.
What is Lymphedema Therapy?
Treatment for lymphedema is intended to reduce the swelling and maintain the fluid reduction. With lymphedema, the elastic fibers of the skin are damaged and sufficient compression is required to hold back the swelling and prevent re-accumulation of fluid after decongestion. The treatment consists of complete decongestive therapy (CDT), manual lymph drainage (MLD), compression therapy, decongestive exercises and meticulous skin care. The Intensive Phase treatment for lymphedema usually lasts 4-6 weeks, depending on the individual. The Self-Management of Improvement Phase will last a lifetime.
Who Do We Treat for Lymphedema?
All age groups who may be at risk for lymphedema.
