Lymphedema and Lymphatic Disease Education and Resources
By Lisa Sylvestri, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Lymphology Association of North America
Online Learning
This is a structured, five week course to help you understand lymphedema risk, lymphedema management, and the safest and most effective way to begin an exercise program.
Swelling, Edema, and Lymphedema
This course is designed to provide the clinician with the knowledge of the normal function of the lymphatic system, impairments of this system and basic assessment and treatments for lymphatic dysfunction.
Developing Exercise Programs for Cancer Patients
Develop appropriate treatment plans for patients who have survived cancer or have a cancer diagnosis, using the recommended exercise guidelines for cancer patients.
Helping Cancer Patients Manage Fatigue
This course will help therapists better understand cancer-related fatigue and teach patients to effectively manage and reduce fatigue levels.
Valuable Resources
My two favorite websites for accurate lymphedema information are The National Lymphedema Network and The Lymphedema Education and Research Network.
The National Lymphedema Network
The National Lymphedema Network’s mission is to empower our community of lymphedema practitioners and patients by providing educational opportunities, networking opportunities, and interventional resources.
Lymphedema Education and Research Network
LE&RN's mission is to fight lymphatic diseases through education, research, and advocacy. We seek to accelerate the prevention, treatments and cures for lymphedema, lipedema, lymphatic anomalies, and the continuum of lymphatic diseases.
Shop
These are some of my personal favorites when it comes to lymphedema products and vendors. There is no one perfect product for everyone, so always speak to your medical team about what is best for you!These are affiliate links and commissions are earned with your purchases. Thank you for your support.
by Prairie WearPrima is perfect for lymphedema of the breast and chest wall. It offers more coverage and is my go-to choice for swelling.
by Prairie WearVida is a great option for a bit less coverage while utilizing the same amount of compression. It is great to wear around town.
EvervioletFashion forward collection designing for women reclaiming their femininity. Soft, sexy and functional. Designed by Keira Kotler, breast cancer thriver.
AnaOnoBeautiful, soft fabrics are key to this collection designed for recovery and beyond. Gentle compression perfect for everyday. Designed by Dana Donofree, breast cancer thriver
SwellSpotTextured compression that is great for tough to manage swelling in the breast and chest wall. Fits perfectly inside your compression bra.
CZSalusAnother great micromassage option for patients with lymphedema and lipedema. More Styles available. Compression starts at 15-20mmHg.
BioflectMicromassage leggings with gentle compression. Different styles that are great for both lymphedema and lipedema. Approximately 15-20mmHg compression. Run small - so size up!
by RolyanGentle compression for the full arm that may be useful as a secondary product.
Adjustable Wedge pillow - Amazon
AmazonAdjustable wedge pillow that is perfect for positioning and improving comport at home.
Inflatable Wedge Pillow - Amazon
AmazonPerfect for travel, you never have to compromise your elevation routine!
AmazonThis fully adjustable shoe works great over bandages without the look of a surgical shoe.
Assorted Free Weights - Amazon
AmazonAssorted weight sets, perfect for home use. No more excuses not to perform your Home Exercise Program!
AmazonEucerin is a great choice for an every day lotion. It is pH balanced to meet daily skin needs and is fragrance free. Different moisturizing and thickness levels offer choices for everyone.
Self-measurement tape - Amazon
AmazonPerfect for home use when keeping track of girth. Easy to use independently and gives you consistent measurements over time.
AmazonAccidents happen! Make sure you treat any open area with an antibiotic cream to prevent infections. This is one option of many.
Amazon1 inch wide Micropore paper tape is a great, research based option to help reduce the appearance and thickness of scars and scar tissue.
Lymphedema and Lipedema Nutrition Guide - Amazon
AmazonMy favorite book discussing proper nutrition with lymphedema and lipedema. The top book in my library!
AmazonPatient advocate (and patient of Oasis PT) is a certified coach who understands the keys to living your best life.
Ora OrganicThis clean line of products has been tested for quality and potency and is my go-to brand for protein powder and greens.
Ora OrganicThis clean line of products has been tested for quality and potency. Orange flavor makes it easy to get your daily dose of greens!
AmazonMicronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) supplements have shown improvements in edema for patients with venous disease and small studies also show improvements in oncologic related swelling! Speak to your doctor first before starting supplements, but this is the only brand I'd recommend that is formulated by a doctor in our field and meticulously tested by NSF.
About this Site
Awareness of the lymphatic system and lymphatic diseases has grown exponentially over the past few years due to the explosion of research and hard work by many professionals all over the world.This is an amazing leap forward for our profession and for the future of treatment. These findings influence the way therapists treat patients and the way patients choose treatments.With this growing awareness and popularity can come misinformation as well. The goal of this website is to keep patients and therapists informed by reporting and promoting research-backed, up to date information. My goal is for us all to be LymphSmart!Additionally, I offer educational opportunities, for patients and therapists, and links to some of my favorite products available.
About Me
My name is Lisa Berman Sylvestri. I received my Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Boston University in 2000, and I'm a Certified Lymphedema Therapist through both the Dr. Vodder School and the Academy of Lymphatic Studies since 2008. My passion for lymphedema treatment is matched by my passion for education. I teach courses to both therapists and patients since 2019 and want to ensure that everyone has access to the best information available.For questions related to this site or research topic suggestions, please contact hello@lymphsmart.com.For more about me and my private practice, Oasis Physical Therapy and Wellness, check out my website at www.oasisptwellness.com.FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM for more information on lymphedema and oncology rehab.
DISCLOSURE: The content of this site is not intended as personal medical or professional advice, and does not replace the care of your professional medical team. It is provided for general information and educational purposes only. The content of YouTube videos, educational webinars, Instagram posts, digital products, or other platforms does not replace the care of physical therapists or other healthcare professionals .Don’t use this content to self-diagnose or self-treat any health, medical, or physical conditions. You agree to hold harmless indemnify Lymphsmart.com, Oasis Physical Therapy and Wellness, PC and Lisa B. Sylvestri and employees for any and all losses, injuries, or damages resulting from any and all claims that arise from your use or misuse of this content. The company cannot guarantee the outcome of educational content or recommendations on the company’s website, social media, webinars/courses, products, or email. This site comments are expressions of Lisa B. Sylvestri’s opinion only.Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for yourself.
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