Lymphedema Therapy

Convenient, Complete Lymphedema Treatment

If you have lymphedema—swelling caused by the chronic buildup of fluid in your arms, legs or other tissues—you need treatment to help flush the fluid from your body.

At Emory Rehabilitation, our outpatient lymphedema therapy program offers convenient, complete treatment. Our certified lymphedema therapists work with you to create a care plan to reduce your swelling, pain and risk of infection.

The Emory Healthcare Difference

You may have lymphedema from surgery, cancer care or a genetic condition. Our experts use the most advanced treatment—complete decongestive therapy (CDT)—to relieve your symptoms. CDT blends exercise, special clothing and other health services to reduce your swelling and discomfort.

We offer lymphedema therapy services at multiple locations throughout Emory Healthcare. Our certified lymphedema therapists are available every weekday between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. We can find an appointment time and location that works best for you.

Who Benefits from Lymphedema Therapy?

Anyone who has chronic swelling or fluid buildup can benefit from lymphedema therapy. CDT is the leading treatment for people with:

Lipo-lymphedema
Swelling caused by the abnormal buildup of fat tissue and fluid retention
Phlebolymphedema
Swelling caused by poor circulation and lymph system drainage
Post-surgical lymphedema
Fluid buildup after surgical removal of the lymph nodes
Primary congenital lymphedema
Fluid buildup after surgical removal of the lymph nodes
Secondary lymphedema
Swelling caused by cancer treatment, injury or a medical procedure
What to Expect with CDT

CDT is the gold standard treatment for lymphedema. It brings together compression therapy, exercise, massage and skin care to flush extra fluid from your body. This effective treatment can reduce your swelling, relieve pain and lower your risk of skin infections, including cellulitis and fungal infections.


Depending on your specific needs, your lymphedema therapist will design your CDT care plan to include:

Most lymphedema therapy sessions last at least one hour. Your provider may recommend between two and 12 sessions based on your unique needs. During these appointments, our specialists guide you through exercises and services that get you back to the activities you enjoy most.

Make an Appointment with Emory Rehabilitation

Create a MyChart account to schedule online or call 678-474-8008 to schedule an appointment.