Course Description:

The incidence of head and neck cancers in the United States is growing. Lymphedema is often the result of cancer treatment for malignancies in the neck or the head region. Therapists play an integral role in treating head and neck lymphedema to relieve symptoms and prevent or delay disease progression. This course provides instruction in the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic and venous system, the pathophysiology of edema and lymphedema, and the management and treatment of lymphedema in the head and neck. Participants will be instructed in the components of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), including manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, skin care, and exercises for head and neck lymphedema. In addition, contraindications to treatment, measurements, compression garments, and documentation and billing will also be discussed.