Lymphedema Therapy Now Available at Merit Health Natchez
3/3/2016
NATCHEZ, Miss. –March 4, 2016 – Merit Health Natchez is pleased to announce the introduction of Lymphedema treatment services. Occupational Therapist, Naydza Muhammad, OTR/L, CLT, completed educational and training requirements and serves as the hospital’s Certified Lymphedema Therapist.
Lymphedema is a chronic disease that results in a buildup of lymph fluid that occurs when the lymphatic system is either faulty or damaged and can lead to such symptoms as swelling, pain and infection. It can be caused by trauma or injury to the lymph nodes from surgery, cancer, radiation treatment or infection. It is common to develop lymphedema after a mastectomy or knee replacement because of removal of lymph nodes during surgery.
“Any disruption to the lymph system can be the trigger for lymphedema,” said Muhammad. “The condition can develop within weeks, or it may be years later that the symptoms first appear.”
Lymphedema therapy is accomplished through a range of services including the use of massage, compression wrapping and decongestive exercises that redirect fluid by creating a new pathway for it out of the extremities. The goal is for fluid to flow properly again through the lymph system.
“We are fortunate to offer this service to our community,” said Michelle Kaiser, Director of Therapy Services at Merit Health Natchez. “I commend Nayzda for her commitment and dedication to receiving her certification, eliminating the need for patients with lymphedema to travel outside Natchez to receive this specialized service. She also provides pro-active education to individuals who have undergone radiation or lymph node removal and have not yet developed lymphedema.”
“I love seeing the results of this treatment, because it truly improves the quality of life for patients,” said Muhammad. “We are able to give patients with this life-long condition the care they need close to home, and that makes my job very rewarding and worthwhile.”
Individuals with lymphedema should speak with their physician to determine if they can benefit from this service.
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