Lymphedema & Lipedema

At Miller Vein, we specialize in personalized, cutting-edge treatments designed to alleviate lymphedema and lipedema symptoms, restore function, and improve well-being. We are the first and only vein clinic in Michigan to offer on-site Certified Lymphedema Therapy.

What Is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition where excess fluid builds in soft tissues, such as fat or muscle. This disease leads to swelling in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body, limiting mobility, causing discomfort, and reducing quality of life. Blockages, damage, a poorly functioning lymphatic system, or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can each cause lymphedema.

The risks and complications of lymphedema can be exacerbated with extreme heat or cold, tight-fitting clothing, insect bites, sunburns, prolonged standing or sitting, trauma, and infections. Left untreated, lymphedema can worsen over time, potentially leading to complications such as infections, skin changes, or reduced range of motion.

Some common signs and symptoms of lymphedema include:

• Swelling or puffiness in the foot and toes

• Aching, heaviness, tightness, or pain in the affected limb

• Limited range of motion or fatigue in the affected limb

• Skin changes, such as thickening, hardening, or discoloration

• Recurring infections, such as cellulitis or lymphangitis, in the affected area

• Wounds or weeping lymph fluid through the skin

• Clothing fits unevenly on extremities

What Is Lipedema?

Lipedema is a chronic and progressive condition that primarily affects women and is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs or arms. It typically occurs symmetrically in both legs and can be located from the hips to the ankles. A disproportionate appearance is evident when comparing the lower extremities to the upper half of the body.

Many people confuse excess fat with lipedema. Excess fat refers to an overall increase in adipose tissue throughout the body, leading to obesity. It is more evenly distributed throughout the body and is not limited to specific areas. Excess fat is not necessarily accompanied by pain, tenderness, or swelling.

You can identify lipedema from the following signs and symptoms:

• Symmetrical leg fat accumulation with normal feet leading to the ankle cut-off sign

• Swelling and tenderness in the affected areas

• The presence of small nodules or lumps beneath the skin

• Easy bruising of the involved areas

• Pain and discomfort in the affected areas

Risk of Combined Disease

Lipedema, lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, and obesity can all happen together in various combinations, resulting in different symptoms and the appearance of the legs. When lipedema and lymphedema occur at the same time, it's called lipolymphedema. This combination results in swelling, discomfort, and reduced mobility, causing the affected areas to feel painful, numb, or heavy.

Advanced Lymphedema and Lipedema Treatment in Michigan

Miller Vein is proud to offer advanced therapies for lymphedema and lipedema treatment. These techniques work together to reduce swelling, improve lymphatic flow, and prevent further complications. For patients with more severe or persistent cases, we collaborate with other medical professionals to explore additional interventions that might be necessary.

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

CDT is a comprehensive treatment to reduce swelling and improve lymphatic drainage. Our experts break this therapy down into two phases:

• Decongestive: The first phase is known as the decongestive phase. This technique focuses on actively reducing current swelling and improving your skin condition. Frequent therapy sessions will include manual lymphatic drainage techniques, bandaging, exercises, and skin care.

• Maintenance: After the swelling has gone down, we will enter the maintenance — or self-management — phase. Together, we will walk you through how to manage your condition from home with preventive measures, including compression garments, exercises, and skin care.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

While manual lymphatic drainage is commonly referred to as a massage, it is a much gentler therapeutic approach. It consists of light stretches and rhythmic movements to stimulate lymph flow, reroute fluids, and drain fluids out of a swollen body part.

Compression Therapy

Compression garments or bandages are used to apply pressure to the affected limb(s), helping to improve lymphatic flow and reduce swelling. The selection of proper compression is an art form. Your certified lymphedema therapist will coordinate with you to select the proper compression and will train you on efficient methods of getting them on and off. Even patients with advanced arthritis are now able to wear compression stockings with the help of our CLTs.

Pneumatic Compression Device

A pneumatic compression device uses inflatable cuffs or sleeves to apply sequential pressure to the limbs. Specifically, this intermittent compression moves the accumulated lymphatic fluid toward healthy lymph nodes and into the venous system, helping to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the affected area.

Exercise, Nutrition, and Skin Care

Regular exercise, like walking or swimming, can help improve lymphatic flow and reduce swelling. Patients with lymphedema are at increased risk of skin infections, so it's important to keep the skin clean and moisturized with low pH products to reduce the risk of infection. Proper nutrition and weight management can help those suffering from lipedema.

It's important to point out that weight loss cannot cure lipedema and lymphedema. However, it can reduce the strain on the lymphatic system and manage symptoms.

Venous Ablation

Correction of underlying vein disease through quick in-office procedures helps with symptoms of vein disease, including heaviness, aching, swelling, and skin ulcers. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preventing complications such as leg ulcers.

Miller Vein Is Your Trusted Lymphedema Clinic in Michigan

At Miller Vein, we are committed to supporting you through every step of your journey. With a focus on personalized care, advanced treatment methods, and a compassionate approach, we strive to help you regain control, improve mobility, and live life more comfortably.

We also emphasize patient education, empowering you with the tools and knowledge to manage lymphedema effectively. Our team provides guidance on skin care, self-massage techniques, and the use of compression garments to maintain results and prevent flare-ups.

Schedule Your Appointment With Us Today

The team at Miller Vein is here to help you manage your lymphedema and lipedema symptoms and get back to your favorite activities. Contact us to get started today.