When I started Lymphedema Therapy, I was excited to help people with what I knew was the gold standard of treatment, Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). In a nutshell, this therapy involves five components.

1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage: A special type of lymphatic massage that involves gentle rhythmic strokes to stimulate lymphatic vessels to carry excess fluid away from the swollen area.

2. Compression Therapy: Bandaging of the affected limb, either by short stretch wraps applied to the body by hand, or compression through specialized garments.

3. Exercise: While the edemic area is compressed, the patient moves to keep the fluid moving toward lymph nodes and away from the congested area. Exercise also strengthens the body, increases flexibility, and encourages good breath work.

4. Skin and Nail Care: Lymphedema is often complicated by skin and nail problems which can lead to infection. Regular cleaning and moisturizing are required.

5. Maintenance and Self-Care: after the initia...