Lymphedema Treatment (Lymphatic Drainage)

Reducing Swelling, Restoring Comfort

At Réhabital in Côte Saint-Luc (CSL), Montreal, this service is delivered by Colin Teghen Tamuton, Physiothérapeute, a bilingual (English / French) physiotherapist and member of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ). Colin combines hands-on manual therapy, progressive therapeutic exercise and clear patient education to deliver measurable functional results.

Lymphedema is a chronic accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the limbs or trunk, most often after cancer surgery (especially breast cancer with lymph node removal), radiation, infection, or as a primary congenital condition. Untreated, lymphedema progressively hardens tissue and increases infection risk. Treated properly, it can be controlled and dramatically reduced. Colin provides combined decongestive therapy (CDT) — the international gold-standard approach to lymphedema management.

Components of Lymphedema Treatment

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) — gentle, rhythmic strokes that redirect fluid through functional lymphatic pathways

• Compression bandaging and garment guidance — multi-layer bandaging in the reduction phase, fitted sleeves or stockings for maintenance

• Decongestive exercise — specific movement sequences that activate the muscle pump

• Skin care and infection-prevention education

• Self-management training — Colin teaches you self-MLD and self-bandaging so you can maintain results between sessions

Common Causes Treated

• Post-breast-cancer arm lymphedema (after axillary node dissection or radiation)

• Post-pelvic-cancer leg lymphedema (uterine, prostate, melanoma)

• Primary lymphedema (genetic / developmental)

• Lipo-lymphedema and chronic venous insufficiency with secondary lymphatic overload

• Post-traumatic and post-surgical edema

What to Expect

The first visit lasts 60 minutes and includes circumferential measurement of the affected limb, skin assessment, and an explanation of your individualized program. Initial treatment is typically more intensive (2–3 sessions per week for 2–4 weeks) to reduce volume, then tapered to maintenance visits combined with self-care.

A Sensitive, Cancer-Informed Approach

Colin uses an evidence-based, gentle protocol respectful of post-cancer patients. He coordinates with your oncology team when needed and ensures all treatment is safe relative to your surgical and radiation history.

Complementary Care

For broader well-being, many patients combine lymphedema therapy with lymphatic massage therapy sessions and gentle therapeutic exercises.