Lymphedema Treatment
We are one of Houston’s premier destination for specialized lymphedema care. As a dedicated Lymphatic and lymphedema clinic, we bring years of experience and a deep understanding of this complex condition to our patients. Our team of highly trained professionals is committed to helping you achieve the lowest possible level of swelling and providing you with the education and resources needed to maintain and manage your symptoms. We understand lymphedema and are passionate about your healing journey. Whether you’re dealing with primary or secondary lymphedema, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Explore our page to learn more about lymphedema, our treatment methods, and how we can assist you on your path to improved health.
Reduced Swelling
Improved Mobility and Function
Pain and Discomfort Relief
Prevention of Complications
Improved Quality of Life
Education and Self-Management

Lymphedema is a condition that arises due to a malfunction in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of our immune and circulatory systems. This system is responsible for transporting lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells that fight infection, throughout the body. Lymphedema typically occurs when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes are removed, disrupting the normal flow of lymph. This can result in a buildup of this fluid, leading to swelling, usually in the arms or legs.
At Carolina Pintos, we offer comprehensive treatment options for lymphedema, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Our goal is to reduce swelling, manage symptoms, and improve the quality of life for our patients. Remember, early detection and treatment of lymphedema can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life. If you suspect you may have lymphedema, please contact us immediately. We’re here to support you on your journey to better health.
Lymphedema, a condition caused by a malfunction in the lymphatic system, leads to fluid buildup and swelling, usually in the arms or legs. At Carolina Pintos, we provide personalized lymphedema treatments aimed at reducing swelling, managing symptoms, and enhancing patients’ quality of life. Early detection and treatment are key for better outcomes. If you suspect lymphedema, contact us immediately for support and care.
We are located on the west side of Houston at the Energy Corridor, and easily accessible to those in Katy, Spring, Sugar Land, Bellaire, and other surrounding locations.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Unique for Patients With Lymphedema
This is a gentle massage technique that targets the lymphatic system, specifically the superficial lymph vessels just beneath the skin. The goal of MLD is to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid around blocked or damaged areas, redirecting it to healthier lymph vessels where it can eventually drain back into the circulatory system. This helps to reduce swelling and improve the overall function of the lymphatic system.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle massage technique that stimulates the lymphatic system. It redirects lymph fluid from blocked or damaged areas to healthier vessels, reducing swelling and enhancing lymphatic function.
$129 In-Office Session | 50 minutes
$129 In-Office Session
50 minutes
Our loyalty program gives you $25 OFF after every 3rd visit
713-474-4774
Compression Therapy
This involves the use of specially designed garments, bandages, or pumps to apply constant, gradient pressure to the affected limb. This pressure supports the function of the lymph vessels and helps to prevent the buildup of lymph fluid, thereby reducing swelling. Compression garments should be custom-fitted and worn during the day while the patient is active. At night, bandages may be used for continued compression.
Compression therapy uses custom-fitted garments, bandages, or pumps to apply pressure to the affected limb, supporting lymph vessels and reducing swelling by preventing lymph fluid buildup.
$129 In-Office Session | 50 minutes
$129 In-Office Session
50 minutes
Our loyalty program gives you $25 OFF after every 3rd visit
713-474-4774
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)
This is a comprehensive approach to lymphedema treatment that combines all of the above methods. It typically involves an intensive phase, during which treatments are done frequently, and a maintenance phase, during which the patient continues treatments at home. CDT is considered the gold standard for lymphedema treatment and has been shown to significantly reduce swelling and improve quality of life.
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a comprehensive lymphedema treatment combining multiple methods. It includes an intensive treatment phase and a home maintenance phase, effectively reducing swelling and enhancing quality of life.
$258 In-Office Session | 100 minutes
$258 In-Office Session
100 minutes
Our loyalty program gives you $25 OFF after every 3rd visit
713-474-4774
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General Questions About Lymphedema
Lymphedema FAQs
Q: What is lymphedema and what are the causes it?
A: Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by swelling in certain parts of the body, usually the arms or legs, due to a compromised or damaged lymphatic system. Lymphedema can be primary (congenital or genetic) or secondary (caused by surgery, radiation therapy, infection, trauma, or other factors that damage the lymphatic system).
Q: What are the symptoms of lymphedema and how is it diagnosed?
A: Symptoms may include swelling, heaviness or tightness in the affected limb, decreased flexibility, recurrent infections, thickening of the skin, and discomfort. Lymphedema is typically diagnosed based on medical history, physical examination, and evaluation of symptoms. Additional tests such as lymphoscintigraphy or bioimpedance analysis may be used for confirmation.
Q: Is lymphedema curable and can it be prevented?
A: While there is no known cure for lymphedema, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and self-care to control swelling and prevent complications. While primary lymphedema cannot be prevented, there are measures to reduce the risk of secondary lymphedema, such as proper wound care, infection prevention, and avoiding trauma to the affected limb.
Q: What are the stages of lymphedema?
A: Lymphedema is often classified into four stages based on the severity of swelling and tissue changes. The stages range from mild to severe.
Q: What is the difference between primary and secondary lymphedema?
A: Primary lymphedema is caused by congenital abnormalities in the lymphatic system, whereas secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of damage to the lymphatic system due to external factors.
Q: How is lymphedema treated?
A: Lymphedema treatment typically involves a combination of approaches to manage the condition effectively. This comprehensive approach includes manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a specialized massage technique that promotes the flow of lymph fluid and reduces swelling. Compression therapy, using garments, bandages, or pumps, applies constant pressure to the affected limb, facilitating the movement of lymph fluid. Personalized exercise programs improve lymphatic flow, mobility, and overall well-being. Proper skincare and self-management techniques, such as elevation, hygiene, and adhering to recommended routines, are crucial for preventing complications.
Q: What is an lymphatic massage like?
A: After an initial consultation, you will undress, lie down on a massage table in the face-up position, covered with proper draping. The atmosphere is the same as a massage treatment room with dim lighting and soft music. Although you are in a massage setting, it is important to understand that a lymphatic massage is a specific form of bodywork designed to efficiently move lymph fluid in your body. Manual Lymphatic Massage (MLD) is completely different from deep tissue, Swedish, or relaxation massage that you may be expecting or have had in the past. Stimulation of the Lymphatic System activates the parasympathetic nervous system producing an automatic physiological relaxation response. Many clients fall asleep. Gentle, rotating, pumping motions with the therapist’s hands and fingertips begin at the collarbone area, then focus on areas where there is a concentration of lymph nodes (the underarms, abdomen, groin, and back of the knees). The session always starts face-up position because most of the areas of lymph nodes that need to be decongested are located on the front of the body. It is very important to decongest the areas of drainage in the groin, abdomen, underarms, and collarbone areas before sending extra lymph fluid to them.
Q: What is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) like?
A: Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a comprehensive and highly effective treatment approach for lymphedema. It typically involves several components combined into a structured program. The first phase of CDT includes manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), a specialized massage technique that stimulates lymphatic circulation and directs fluid away from congested areas. This is followed by compression therapy, which involves the use of bandages or compression garments to maintain the reduced swelling achieved through MLD. In addition, patients are educated on self-care practices, including skincare, exercise, and limb elevation techniques to enhance lymphatic flow and prevent further fluid accumulation. The second phase of CDT focuses on the long-term management of lymphedema, where patients continue to use compression garments, adhere to self-care practices, and receive ongoing monitoring and support from their healthcare team. CDT is a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of lymphedema, aiming to reduce swelling, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. It is typically administered by trained therapists who work closely with patients to tailor the treatment to their specific needs and goals.
Q: How does lymphedema cause edema?
A: Lymphedema, a specific type of edema, arises from the disruption of the normal functioning of the lymphatic system. This impairment hinders the drainage of fluid from the interstitial spaces, where it accumulates. As a consequence, the affected area experiences fluid retention, swelling, increased pressure, and compromised fluid flow out of the blood vessels, exacerbating the edema. Lymphedema may also induce inflammation and tissue fibrosis, further contributing to the persistence of edema. It is important to note that while lymphedema specifically stems from lymphatic system dysfunction, not all cases of edema can be attributed to lymphedema.