Lymphedema Program
Lymphedema Education and Management
Medical Office Building connected to the hospital
611 East Douglas Road, Ste. 140
Mishawaka, IN 46545
574.335.6212
Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of lymphatic fluid, a clear, colorless fluid that removes bacteria, viruses and waste products from the body. This accumulation in the interstitial tissue causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs and occasionally in other parts of the body. Surgeries that include disruption to the lymph nodes may place a patient at risk for lymphedema.
The Lymphedema Treatment Program at SJHS offers a comprehensive approach to help patients manage lymphedema. Our staff works closely with Michiana Hematology Oncology as well as area surgeons and is specially trained to provide treatment sensitive to the needs of oncology patients.
Symptoms
- Swelling in the arms, hands, fingers, shoulders, chest or legs
- Swelling after an injury, infection or extended airplane trip
- Heavy sensation in arms or legs
- Skin tightness
- Decreased flexibility in the hand, wrist or ankle
- Difficulty fitting into clothing
Our team
- Joanne Hartman, PT, CLT
- Sheryl Van Heesbeke, PT, CLT-LANA
- Dawn Beery, PT, CLT (Plymouth Medical Center)
Treatment options
- Complete decongestive therapy
- Manual lymph drainage
- Compression bandaging
- Exercise
- Skin care
- Elastic compression garment to be worn once the swelling is under control
- Education & home maintenance strategies
To learn more call 574.335.6212.