Lymphedema Podcast

Photo by Anthony Garand on Unsplash

Lymphedema effects everyone a little differently. One thing I enjoy about my work is that not every patient will be exactly the same or require exactly the same treatment. Therefore I know that not every person who listens to this episode with be able to apply these tips to make living with Lymphedema easier.

“I want more than anything for each of you to hear that you are worth putting in the time and effort to manage this disease. It can take a mental and emotional toll on you, but you can decide NOW that you will set yourself up for success. ” This closing paragraph to the episode sums it up best.

I hope you enjoy this episode of living with Lymphedema. If you are enjoying the podcast please subscribe and leave a review for others to see just how much it has helped you.

Lymphedema effects everyone a little differently. One thing I enjoy about my work is that not every patient will be exactly the same or require exactly the same treatment. Therefore I know that not every person who listens to this episode with be able to apply these tips to make living with Lymphedema easier. “I … Continue reading "Episode 08: Living with Lymphedema"

Wounds can happen…a small scratch from the pet, a cut from bumping into furniture, or something more involved like a pressure ulcer. Either way it helps to be informed so that you can better prevent a wound or better heal the wound once it has been discovered.

https://woundcareadvisor.com/a-collaborative-approach-to-wound-care-and-lymphedema-therapy-part-2-vol4-no4/

This is an exciting episode for the podcast, our very first guest! Frank Aviles has any years of experience in wound care and instructs for the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, in addition to other affiliations in the healthcare industry.

The link below is mentioned in the podcast as a free lymphedema handout featured on The Wound Clinic’s website. While you are there for the handout read some of Franks’ work on his column Let’s Be Frank. 

https://www.todayswoundclinic.com/articles/patient-handout-lymphedema

Wounds can happen…a small scratch from the pet, a cut from bumping into furniture, or something more involved like a pressure ulcer. Either way it helps to be informed so that you can better prevent a wound or better heal the wound once it has been discovered. This is an exciting episode for the podcast, … Continue reading "Episode 07: Wound Care featuring Frank Aviles, PT, CWS, FACCWS, CLT"

Everyone knows that exercise is “good” for our bodies but when you have Lymphedema there are a lot of questions . How much? When should I start exercise? What to avoid?

Episode 06 breaks down some of the myths related to exercise and Lymphedema. New research has improved our understanding of the benefits related to exercise for lymphies. I have added my three “must haves” for exercising so I hope they can help you start a solid routine you enjoy.

After you listen take a picture of you next workout or exercise session, post it to Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #lymphedemapodcastexercise I am going to pick a winner to receive one of my workout must haves, FO FREE!

Everyone knows that exercise is “good” for our bodies but when you have Lymphedema there are a lot of questions . How much? When should I start exercise? What to avoid? Episode 06 breaks down some of the myths related to exercise and Lymphedema. New research has improved our understanding of the benefits related to … Continue reading "Episode 06: Exercise"

Photo by rawpixel on Unsplash

Have you ever experienced redness in your affected limb and had a fever? Have you ever gone to the emergency room for a red spot that was warm to the touch and kept getting bigger? Did the doctors and nurses at the emergency room look at you like you were crazy or contagious?

Cellulitis is a serious risk for lymphies. On this episode I break down a skin care routine to prevent or limit cellulitis occurrences, as well as what to do if you have or suspect you have cellulitis.

If you think you have cellulitis don’t waste anytime getting treatment. Oral antibiotics from the doctor, not the left over stuff you have from last years sinus infection, or a tube of that topical stuff for cuts. A new, full, prescription that you start the same day is what you need. Listen to this episode for more signs, symptoms, and suggestions for cellulitis treatment.

Have you ever experienced redness in your affected limb and had a fever? Have you ever gone to the emergency room for a red spot that was warm to the touch and kept getting bigger? Did the doctors and nurses at the emergency room look at you like you were crazy or contagious? Cellulitis is … Continue reading "Episode 05: Cellulitis"

Are you covered? Do you know what lymphedema related items your insurance will cover? Are there exceptions or authorization requirements for your lymphedema supplies? Each insurance company is different. This is something I did not know until months into treating patients and telling a handful of people “insurance will not cover compression garments or pumps.” I was wrong, and I am glad I was wrong because some insurance policies will cover every compression garment out there.

In a later episode we will cover the Lymphedema Treatment Act. If you have Medicare and have lymphedema you need to visit https://lymphedematreatmentact.org/ so you can become an advocate for yourself and the thousands of people just like you!

Episode 04 covers a detailed list of what insurance will cover, what they will not cover and if there are exceptions or authorizations for your plan. If you don’t have insurance you can skip to the end of the episode where I tell you how to get items donated or discounted. Keep an eye out for the episode that covers how to get discounted garments and supplies.

Are you covered? Do you know what lymphedema related items your insurance will cover? Are there exceptions or authorization requirements for your lymphedema supplies? Each insurance company is different. This is something I did not know until months into treating patients and telling a handful of people “insurance will not cover compression garments or pumps.” … Continue reading "Episode 04: Insurance Coverage in Detail"