Complete decongestive physiotherapy and the Lerner Lymphedema Services Academy of Lymphatic Studies (the Lerner School).

BACKGROUND

Lymphedema is more common than most physicians realize. It is also an incurable, life long condition that has never been treated effectively in the past in our country.

METHODS

The author describes complete decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) and his contribution to making it available all across the United States. This was done by establishing a network of outpatient CDP clinics where patients can be treated effectively and a training school, the Lerner Lymphedema Services Academy of Lymphatic Studies (the Lerner School), where physicians and therapists can be trained in all facets of the lymphedema problem and where the CDP method with all of its components is taught.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The superiority of CDP to pneumatic pumps and to surgical procedures used to treat lymphedema is discussed. A description of the Lerner School's philosophy and curriculum is included.