You Are Looking For A Certified Lymphatic Therapist – A Couple Things To Know & Ask …

You know about lymphatic therapy (sometimes called lymphatic massage) and are looking to experience it …

Know what to look for. Has your certified lymphatic therapist completed a 135-hour training course from a recognized lymphatic therapy school:

NALEA -ACOLS, Norton, Klose, Vodder
Casley-Smith
LeDuc
Other schools, if they offer 135-hour training courses

The following recommendations come from LE&RN:

Does your certified lymphatic therapist engage in on-going learning/ continuing education courses?

How many hours of specific lymphatic therapy training have you had?

Where was the training from?

Aware of the standards for therapist training established by the International federations (International Lymphedema Framework/International Society of Lymphology) and National Organizations of Countries or Continents (i.e. Lymphology Association of North America (LANA))?

How much of the therapists’ practice is devoted to lymphatic therapy?

Things to Expect Regards Treatment

Treatment begins with an evaluation, which should focus not just on limb volume, but should identify functional goals and limitations, and clarify the course of treatment.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Assessment, Therapy Goals, Education, Agreed Plan

Finding Your Ideal Therapist and Potential Barriers to Finding Your Ideal Therapist

Your ideal therapist is accessible, experienced, works with appropriate oversight and is well equipped to treat a chronic disease.

Unfortunately, there are many barriers to the ideal therapist:

Shortage of trained therapists
Your reimbursement is poor/not recognized
Treatment course may be shortened
The physical therapy model is not compatible with a chronic disease
Follow up care may not occur
Lack of “fitters,” access to garments, coverage for garments
No team: physician ignorance and lack of “ownership”
Clients complete treatment and leave without a “tool box,” not prepared for self care

Ways To Assist With Potential Barriers:

Set common goals with your therapist
Strive for empowerment: when you learn to control your situation
Leave with a plan and specific goals for self-management and control
Expect to leave with your tool box, and realize that it’s a learning curve for you
You may need to review your notes, record your results and questions, and revisit your needs with the therapist.