Lymphedema massage after cancer: how to find a certified lymphedema therapist
The National Cancer Institute describes lymphedema as swelling from lymph fluid that builds up, usually in an arm or leg, when cancer or its treatment affects the lymph system. Lymphedema massage often means manual lymphatic drainage, a light hands-on technique that is one part of lymphedema treatment. Here is who provides it, how to check their training, and what to ask.
Tell your doctor first
The National Cancer Institute advises contacting your doctor as soon as you notice heaviness, swelling or other signs of lymphedema. Swelling can have other causes too, so get it checked before you book any massage.
Lymphedema raises the risk of a skin infection called cellulitis. If the area becomes red, warm, painful, tender or more swollen, or you have a fever, NCI says to call your doctor right away. NCI: Lymphedema.
What lymphedema treatment usually includes
NCI describes manual lymphatic drainage as gentle massage that helps move lymph fluid. It is usually given as part of complete decongestive therapy, which can also include compression bandages or sleeves, exercises and skin care. A relaxation or deep-tissue massage is a different thing.
One 2018 trial (British Journal of Cancer) in people with lymphedema after breast cancer found that adding manual lymphatic drainage to the other parts of treatment did not reduce swelling volume further. Read the study. A single trial doesn't settle it for everyone, so ask your team what role it should play in your plan.
Who provides it: certified lymphedema therapists
NCI describes a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT) as a physical or occupational therapist with special training in lymphedema. The Lymphatic Education & Research Network recommends a therapist with the CLT-LANA credential, or at least 135 hours of lymphedema training. CLT-LANA means the therapist completed that training and also passed an accredited board exam. LE&RN: find a lymphedema therapist lists therapist directories, including LANA's. Alongside checks each practitioner's state license; we don't check lymphedema certification, so ask each therapist for theirs.
Your cancer center may have lymphedema therapists on staff or know some nearby, and your oncologist can write a referral, which some insurance plans ask for. Coverage differs by plan, so call the number on your insurance card to ask about yours.
Questions to ask a lymphedema therapist
- How many hours of lymphedema training have you completed, and where?
- Are you CLT-LANA certified, or do you meet LANA's training standard?
- How much of your practice is lymphedema care?
- Do you take continuing education in lymphedema?
- What will the first visit include, and will I leave with a plan I can follow at home?
The first four come from the questions LE&RN suggests asking.
Looking for massage for comfort instead?
If you want massage for relaxation during or after treatment, read our guide to oncology massage. If you have lymphedema or are at risk of it, tell the massage therapist and ask your team what to avoid.
Hear when a practitioner in your state joins Alongside
Alongside is adding practitioners who work with people in cancer care, and we verify each license before a practitioner can accept patients. Pick your state and we'll send one email when someone licensed there joins.
Are you a physical or occupational therapist who treats lymphedema?
Joining is free today, you set your own rates, and we verify your license before you can accept patients. We are adding Illinois practitioners first. See how joining works.
More guides: exercise during and after cancer and finding an oncology dietitian.
This page is general information to help you find a practitioner. It is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor about any swelling before starting treatment or massage. Alongside is not affiliated with the National Cancer Institute, the Lymphatic Education & Research Network, the Lymphology Association of North America, any lymphedema training school or any cancer center.