Physical Therapist Earns Lymphedema Certification

Cynthia Brocks, a licensed physical therapist recently earned certification as a lymphedema therapist. Brocks earned her degree in physical therapy from University of Connecticut at Storrs in 1983. She joined Columbia Physical Therapy, P.C. in East Greenbush in 1995. Brocks then added a license in massage therapy following enrollment at the Center for Natural Wellness in Albany. The Norton School awarded the certification as a manual lymph therapist.

More and more women and men are seeking help for discomfort and impaired function due to excessive swelling. Lymphedema is a condition characterized by an accumulation of lymphatic fluid that causes swelling in the arms and legs. Secondary Lymphedema can be the result of cancer or its treatments including mastectomy or radiation therapy. Whenever lymph nodes have been removed, damaged, or challenged by an infection, lymphedema can occur. Designed to help treat and relieve lymphedema symptoms, Columbia Physical Therapy's Lymphedema Management Program focuses on manual lymph drainage (MLD), a gentle yet precise massage technique that mobilizes excess tissue fluid and promotes normal functioning of the lymphatic system. Therapeutic MLD reduces edema and pain and facilitates recovery. Early detection and treatment are crucial to a more favorable outcome.

The treatment of lymphedema includes compression bandaging, remedial exercise, instruction in self-care and compression garment fitting in addition to the manual lymph drainage massage. Brocks has 23 years of experience as a physical therapist. Her skills with manual therapy and therapeutic exercise combined with her professionalism offer those with lymphedema, a treatment option to diminish discomfort and improve function. You can reach Brocks at 286-3990 if you have questions regarding lymphedema management.