Lymphedema-Focused Physical Therapy
Jo Givhan
PT, DPT, CLT
I'm a physical therapist with special training in helping patients control and manage their lymphedema in any part of the body.
My primary treatment is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) which consists of four parts. These include Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), which is a gentle hands-on technique, as well as meticulous skin care, compression bandaging and garments, and decongestive exercises.
Your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system, has many functions, including protecting your body from illness-causing invaders, maintaining body fluid levels, absorbing digestive tract fats, and removing cellular waste.
Lymphedema can result from a blockage in the lymphatic system caused by scar tissue from damaged lymph vessels or nodes. Lymphedema is also often seen when lymph nodes are removed from those who've had surgery or radiation to remove cancer. The buildup of lymphatic fluid is most commonly seen in your arms and legs. Lymphedema can be very mild or be quite painful, disfiguring, and disabling. People with lymphedema are at risk for serious and potentially life-threatening deep skin infections.
I utilize a special type of physical therapy to help control and manage lymphedema known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD). This is a gentle hands-on technique, that when done in conjunction with meticulous skin care, compression bandaging/garments, and decongestive exercises, can relieve the symptoms and help control this condition. I work closely with my clients to develop an individualized treatment plan that will best address your swelling and fit your specific needs and goals.
Insurance note: Jo's services are cash-based only.
Client Success Stories...
"Jo provided wound care and lymphedema therapy services for me for over a year. I had been without this care for a while because I was dissatisfied with my provider. But then I was introduced to Jo and we developed a wonderful patient-clinician relationship, and she was excellent at what she did. She outfitted me with a compression pump and other devices. I found her to be a tremendous resource. I highly recommend her because of her caring spirit and her understanding of what elders in this situation need. She's also very patient and took great care in helping me overcome my issues."
- James A.
Insurance note: Jo's services are cash-based only.