Posted on March 28, 2023

That’s a Wrap! Lymphedema Workshop Shares Tools & Techniques for Incurable Condition

Thousands of people in Michigan suffer from an incurable condition that is rarely discussed. That makes March, which is Lymphedema Awareness Month, a great time to talk about it.

Mary Free Bed’s lymphedema physician and specially-trained therapists are hosting a Lymphedema Workshop for the public. Participants will hear from experts about:

• Equipment overviews
• Exercise demonstrations
• Open discussion and Q&A

WHEN:
Thursday, March 30 from 12 – 1 PM

WHERE:
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
2nd Floor, Café Conference Room
235 Wealthy St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI

The workshop is free and open to the public. No RSVP is necessary.

What is lymphedema?

The lymphatic system balances your body’s fluid levels and fights infections. One of the lymphatic system’s major jobs is to drain extra lymph fluid from body tissues. When our lymphatic systems aren’t working properly, fluid can accumulate in the wrong places and cause swelling.

The condition is known as lymphedema. Swelling can make the body feel heavy, tight, and very uncomfortable, even limiting one’s ability to move.

What causes lymphedema?

Lymphedema can be caused by cancer, trauma, obesity or there may be no clear reason.

Is there a cure for lymphedema?

While there’s no known cure for lymphedema, there are effective treatments. Treatment is designed to reduce most of the swelling, manage symptoms. Education about proper self-care is an important aspect of the process.

Learn more about lymphedema treatment at Mary Free Bed.