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Lymphedema

Let's effectively manage your lymphedema

Lymphedema is an incurable but treatable medical condition caused by injury, trauma or congenital defects in the lymphatic system. It is estimated that at least five million Americans suffer from lymphedema, and probably many more.

Our specially trained, experienced therapists are here to provide you with the care you need to treat your lymphedema.

About Lymphedema

When the lymphatic fluid exceeds the lymphatic system's ability to carry it, swelling results, as an abnormal amount of protein-rich fluid collects in the tissues of the affected area.

There are two types of lymphedema:

  • Primary
    Primary lymphedema can be present at birth or develop at the onset of puberty or in adulthood
  • Secondary
    Secondary lymphedema can be caused by surgeries or radiation treatments and is a common side effect of cancer treatments that remove or damage lymph nodes or vessels

Health Risks

Over time, untreated lymphedema results in:

  • Infection
  • Disfigurement
  • Disability
  • Possibly death

Lymphedema can be very effectively managed with different treatment options outlined by your dedicated, specially trained Bryan therapist.

Treatment Options

The recognized standard of treatment for lymphedema is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT comprises four interacting protocols applied in two phases (acute and ongoing):

  • Manual lymph drainage (MLD)
  • Compression therapy
  • Lymph drainage exercises
  • Skin care

After your doctor refers you for lymphedema therapy you will be scheduled for an initial evaluation with our certified practitioner. During that first visit she will take a detailed history, review your particular needs, perform appropriate tests and measures and then make recommendations. She will review the treatment plan in detail before any specific treatments are begun and will ensure that you understand and are comfortable with the program.



Schedule an Appointment Today

Bryan Medical Center:
To schedule an appointment, call 402-481-5121
For information and questions, call 402-481-9445

Crete Area Medical Center:
To schedule an appointment, call 402-826-6541

Merrick Medical Center:
To schedule an appointment, call 308-946-3015

julia reed

Julia Reed, physical therapist, certified lymphedema therapist

Julia Reed, MS, DPT, CLT, completed a bachelor’s degree in exercise science at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a master’s degree in athletic training at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, and a doctorate in physical therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. She is a licensed physical therapist as well as a certified athletic trainer. She has worked in both outpatient orthopedic and acute care settings. She also is certified through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies as a lymphedema therapist.

Provides therapy at: Bryan West Campus

kelly little

Emma Killpack, OTD, OTR/L

Emma Killpack, OTD, OTR/L, received her bachelor’s degree in human development and family sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She earned a doctorate in occupational therapy from Creighton University. Emma has experience working with a wide range of diagnoses, including neurological disorders, burn & wound, orthopedics, upper extremity injury, autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, and Cerebral Palsy. Emma is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and is certified in physical agent modalities and postural and dynamic reflex integration. She enjoys implementing her experience and training into treating individuals of all ages, cultures, and abilities. 

Provides therapy at: Crete Area Medical Center

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