Lymphedema Therapy in Flint, MI
Swelling that will not go down, in an arm after breast cancer treatment, in a leg, or in the face and neck after head and neck cancer, changes how you dress, how you move and how you feel. Lymphedema cannot be cured, but it can be managed, and the right treatment can bring the swelling down and help keep it down. Horizon Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation provides lymphedema care in Flint under the direction of Dr. Jerome Adams Jr., PT, DPT, OCS, and every lymphedema visit is scheduled one-on-one.
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a build-up of protein-rich fluid that happens when the lymphatic system cannot drain an area properly. It most often follows cancer treatment that removes or radiates lymph nodes, but it can also result from other surgery, injury, infection, long-standing vein problems, or a lymphatic system that did not develop normally (primary lymphedema). Without treatment it tends to progress: the swelling gets firmer, the skin thickens, and the risk of infection such as cellulitis goes up. Early treatment makes a real difference.
Lymphedema we treat
- Legs and feet (lower extremity lymphedema)
- Arms, hands and the chest wall, including after breast cancer surgery or radiation
- Head and neck, after head and neck cancer treatment
- Swelling related to chronic vein problems and swelling after surgery or injury
Recovering from cancer treatment? See our oncology rehabilitation services.
How we treat it: Complete Decongestive Therapy
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the standard of care for lymphedema. It has two phases: an intensive phase in the clinic to reduce the swelling, and a maintenance phase in which you manage it at home using the skills we teach you.
- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD): a gentle, specialized hands-on technique that moves fluid toward lymph nodes that are working. It is very different from regular massage.
- Multi-layer compression bandaging: short-stretch bandages applied with graduated pressure to reduce swelling between visits and soften firm tissue.
- Compression garments: once the swelling is down, we help you choose daytime and nighttime garments that hold your results.
- Exercise: specific movements done in compression that use your muscles to help pump fluid.
- Skin and nail care: to protect you from infection.
- Self-management: we teach you, and a family member if you like, self-drainage and bandaging so you stay in control.
- Pneumatic compression pumps: some patients benefit from a home compression pump. We document how you respond to conservative care, which Medicare and many insurers require before they cover a pump.
Medicare now covers compression garments
Since January 1, 2024, under the Lymphedema Treatment Act, Medicare Part B covers compression garments and supplies for people with lymphedema: up to three daytime garments per affected body part every six months and two nighttime garments every two years, when prescribed and furnished by a Medicare-enrolled supplier. The usual Part B deductible and 20% coinsurance apply. We will help you understand what you need and how to get it.
What to expect
Your first visit is a full evaluation: your history, limb or area measurements, skin, mobility and goals. During the intensive phase you will come in more often for a few weeks while we reduce the swelling. Then we move you to your home program with periodic check-ins and re-measurements. Before we start, we screen for conditions that need medical attention first, such as an active infection, a new blood clot, or heart or kidney problems that are not under control, and we coordinate with your physician or oncology team.
See the full list of insurance plans we accept.
Why choose Horizon for lymphedema care in Flint
- One-on-one lymphedema appointments, never double-booked
- Care for arms, legs, chest, and head and neck
- Coordination with your oncologist, surgeon or primary care provider
- A full physical therapy team for strength, mobility and balance as you recover
- Close to home on Miller Road in Flint
Get the swelling under control and keep it there. Call (810) 620‑8042.
We’ve helped hundreds of patients.
This place for physical therapy is the best place to come. The workers are wonderful, friendly, nice caring people who are willing to help meet your goals. This place is fun and safe. I’ve always enjoyed coming here for physical therapy. Thank you to all the wonderful workers for helping me with my appointments and meeting my goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it is very manageable. With treatment and a good home routine, most people reduce their swelling and keep it under control.
Michigan lets you begin physical therapy without a prescription for a limited time. For lymphedema, a physician’s order is usually needed for insurance to cover garments or a compression pump, and we will help coordinate it.
Lymphedema therapy is physical therapy and is usually covered by the plans we accept, including Medicare. Medicare has also covered compression garments since 2024. Coverage for garments under other plans varies, and we will check yours.
The intensive phase usually lasts a few weeks. Because lymphedema is lifelong, you will continue a home routine afterward, and we will see you for check-ins and new garment measurements.
Yes. Heaviness, tightness, or rings and sleeves that feel snug can be early signs of lymphedema, and early treatment is easier and more effective.
Deep or regular massage can make lymphedema worse. Manual lymphatic drainage is a different, very light technique and should be done by a trained therapist.