Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

Complete Decongestive Therapy, or CDT, is the standard approach to managing lymphedema. It has four components that work together rather than in isolation:

• Manual lymphatic drainage, the gentle hands-on technique that moves fluid toward areas that can process it
• Compression, using bandaging or garments appropriate to your limb, region, and stage
• Exercise, including breathing, mobility, and muscle pump work that supports drainage
• Skin and nail care, which protects the tissue and reduces infection risk

CDT runs in two phases. The first is an intensive phase, with more frequent visits, focused on reducing swelling and establishing compression. The second is a maintenance phase, where the work shifts to you: garments, home exercises, and the self management strategies that keep results steady through travel, workouts, and daily routines.

Care is delivered by Dr. Emily Hood, DPT, a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.