Spectrum health lymphedema program

We want you and your loved ones to feel comforted and supported throughout a cancer diagnosis. Our cancer center partners with several teams across our system, local and regional organizations and businesses specializing in support for cancer patients to ensure patients amid treatment, caregivers and loved ones have access to important cancer health resources. These resources include information for accessible supportive care programs, in-person and virtual classes, and services available in our region.

American Cancer Society Michigan Susan G. Komen of Michigan Heart of West Michigan United Way Michigan Bluebird Gilda's Club Before your first visit, please have your physician send your health history, as well as any relevant information regarding your main concern, to our office.

Bring a list of current medications to your initial visit and be prepared to answer general health questions. Look for parking ramp entry marker No. Although a physician referral is preferred, patients can make their own appointments. To make an appointment, please call This fluid results in localized, extremely uncomfortable fluid retention and swelling, typically in the extremities.

This swelling can often be accompanied by infection and limb deformity if left untreated, making lymphedema a potentially life threatening condition. Luckily, though there is no cure for lymphedema, there are a number of treatments that are effective at controlling the worst of the symptoms.

IPC therapy works by utilizing lymphema pumps, devices that use compressed air to progressively inflate a sleeve or band which is placed around an affected area. Lymphedema pumps enable IPC therapy through inflatable, pneumatically controlled sleeves that are placed around the area affected by fluid retention.

Within the sleeve is a series of overlapping cells which, when filled with air from the lymphedema pump, inflate and thus apply pressure to the area. This pressure, which is applied sequentially and in a controlled manner, allows excess fluid to be drained from the surrounding tissue which reduces swelling and enables proper lymph drainage.