Rehab technology developed in Europe offers relief to Lymphedema patients in Northeastern Pennsylvania
Allied Services Integrated Health System continues to make investing in cutting edge rehabilitation technology a priority for its patients. Now, a new device developed in Finland is providing lymphedema patients with a new source of relief from their symptoms.
Lymphedema is an abnormal swelling of the arm, leg or other body part due to an excessive build up of fluid called lymph. Symptoms of lymphedema include swelling of head, trunk, abdomen, genitals, a limb or part of a limb. Other symptoms include a feeling of heaviness in the limb, the skin feeling tight, a decrease in the flexibility of the limb, and difficulty fitting into clothing.
For some cancer patients, lymphedema is a secondary condition caused by the removal of lymph nodes or damage to some of the lymph vessels during radiotherapy. Additionally, some individuals may be born with the swelling and others get it for no apparent reason.
The lymphedema program at Allied Rehab and Heinz rehab provides comprehensive rehab care to patients with acute to chronic lymphedema. Manual lymph drainage, compression therapy, therapeutic exercise programs and patient education is provided by experienced staff credentialed in the Vodder Technique, as well as by the Lymphedema Association of North America (LANA).
In early 2016, Allied Services invested in three new devices, thanks to funds made available through WNEP TV’s Ryan’s Run campaign and a contribution from the Susan G. Komen Northeastern Pennsylvania Affiliate. The PhysioTouch was developed in Finland by HLD Healthy Life Devices Ltd as a therapeutic medical procedure based on negative pressure as well as the optional high-frequency vibration enhancement.
Utilized as part of manual lymphatic drainage, the PhysioTouch device helps to reduce swelling and pain and increase range of motion in affected areas. The treatment is painless, applying negative pressure to the affected or swollen area and stretching the different layers of tissue. This activates the lymphatic system, stimulating the metabolism by speeding up the elimination of harmful particles from the body. For the patient, this means a reduction in adema swelling, or trapped fluid, and with it, increased range of motion.
PhysioTouch first appeared on the market in Europe in 2009. Allied Services is the first in the region to offer the device to lymphedema patients. Already, the device has proven to enhance overall patient outcomes. The device is beneficial to a wide range of patients thanks to its customizable features. Perhaps the greatest recommendation comes from patients at Allied Services who are seeing positive results from incorporating the device into their treatment program.
If you think you might benefit from the use of the PhysioTouch, consult your physician who may provide you with a prescription for an evaluation at Allied Rehab or Heinz Rehab. For specific questions on how to obtain a referral, please call (570) 826-3900 (Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding areas) or (570) 348-1360 (Scranton and the surrounding areas). Visit www.physiotouch.com to learn more about the PhysioTouch.
