Therapists are often frustrated with persistent edema that continues to return in spite of their best efforts. Specific techniques to activate the lymphatic system will quickly and permanently reduce edema that presents as viscous, thick, and very slow to “rebound” from being pitted. Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM) was designed specifically to activate the lymphatic system. A new shorter version enables the therapist to do the technique in a 15 to 20 minute time frame thus allowing time in a treatment session to address other patient needs. Also, a home self management MEM program is essential for success. Therefore, a short, easy to comply, effective program for the patient is also taught as part of the course. Because of the emphasis throughout the course on the lymphatic anatomy related to MEM techniques and specific hand pathologies, the participant will be able to tailor programs to individual patient needs and integrate into other treatment techniques. The extensive lab time and case study presentation enable participants to feel confident to immediately apply techniques in a clinical setting.

MEM addresses over-whelmed intact “normal” nodes and lymphatics as found with sub-acute post trauma/surgery “persistent” edema and sub-acute and chronic post stroke hand edema. The technique is not appropriate for post cancer lymphedema or primary lymphedema.