RANDOLPH, VT — Gifford Health Care is pleased to announce expanded rehabilitation services with specialized lymphedema therapy provided by Averill Pazdro, PT, who recently completed advanced certification in lymphedema treatment.
Lymphedema is a chronic condition involving the buildup of protein-rich fluid in the body, resulting in swelling that can affect mobility, comfort, skin health, and overall quality of life. The condition is often associated with cancer treatment, surgery, chronic venous insufficiency, or other medical conditions affecting the lymphatic system. Left untreated, lymphedema can progress and lead to thickening of tissue, skin changes, reduced mobility, and increased risk of infection.
“As I came into practice as a physical therapist, I was surprised at how limited both physicians’ and patients’ knowledge was about lymphedema,” said Averill Pazdro. “As I worked with more patients experiencing chronic swelling, I realized I wanted to make sure I was providing the best treatment possible, which led me to pursue certification.”
Averill has wanted to become a physical therapist since childhood, drawn to the profession’s focus on helping people care for themselves and improve their independence. She first learned about lymphedema while in physical therapy school and became immediately interested in the specialized treatment techniques used to manage the condition.
Lymphedema treatment may include:
- Manual lymph drainage (a specialized massage technique)
- Compression therapy
- Skin care education
- Therapeutic exercise
- Long-term compression garment fitting and support
“When applied correctly, treatment can help reduce swelling, reduce thickening or hardening of tissue, lower the risk of infection, and improve mobility,” Averill explained.
Patients who may benefit from lymphedema therapy include individuals recovering from cancer treatment or surgery, people with chronic venous insufficiency, and others experiencing persistent swelling. While some swelling can signal more serious medical concerns requiring physician evaluation first, chronic swelling should not simply be ignored or accepted as normal.
“Swelling disorders are often underdiagnosed, and many patients don’t mention changes in swelling to their providers,” Averill said. “Any new or changing swelling should be discussed with your primary care provider so the cause can be properly evaluated.”
During an initial evaluation, patients can expect a comprehensive review of their medical history, mobility, strength, skin condition, sensation, and swelling patterns. Together, the patient and therapist develop a personalized treatment plan that also considers long-term management strategies and compression needs.
Treatment can require frequent visits over several weeks, making local access especially important in rural communities.
“Lymphedema therapy can be a major time commitment, sometimes requiring therapy up to five days a week,” Averill said. “Offering this service locally helps reduce travel time for patients who would otherwise need to travel to larger hospitals or specialty clinics farther away.”
As part of treatment, Gifford’s rehabilitation team also helps patients navigate compression garment options and identify vendors that work with insurance providers to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Although there is currently no cure for lymphedema, specialized therapy and consistent self-care can help patients successfully manage symptoms and prevent progression of the disease.
“Many people live with swelling for years and become frustrated when they are told to simply elevate or wear compression garments,” Averill said. “Specialized therapy can make a meaningful difference. If you have questions about swelling, talk to your provider about whether lymphedema therapy may help.”
With expanded specialty rehabilitation services, Gifford continues its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality care close to home for the communities it serves.
To learn more about lymphedema therapy or to schedule an appointment, please contact Gifford Rehabilitation Services at 802-728-7100.
For more information about Gifford Health Care, please visit www.giffordhealthcare.org
Gifford is a community hospital in Randolph, VT., with family health centers in Berlin, Bethel, Chelsea, Randolph, and Rochester; and specialty services throughout central Vermont. A Federally Qualified Health Center and a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital in the country, Gifford is a full-service hospital with a 24-hour emergency department and inpatient unit; many surgical services; daycare; an adult day program; and a 30-bed nursing home. The Birthing Center, established in 1977, was the first in Vermont to offer an alternative to traditional hospital-based deliveries and continues to be a leader in midwifery and family-centered care. As a community health center and medical home, Gifford’s mission is to improve and manage the health of the people we serve by providing and assuring access to affordable, high-quality health care, and by promoting the health and well-being of everyone in our service area.
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
LinkedIn