Coping With Post-treatment Issues
You have to accept whatever comes, and the only important thing is that you meet it with courage.
—Eleanor Roosevelt
Once you have completed your treatments for breast cancer (including surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc.), you will naturally want to “get on with your life.” Although breast cancer survivors go through the experience of breast cancer differently, there may be some common issues to deal with immediately or long after treatment is over. You may not have to face any one of them. However, being aware of the possibilities puts you in a better position to know how to deal with them or where to turn for help if and when one arrives in your life.
In this section, we address some of the more common “post-treatment” issues that may concern breast cancer survivors. Along with the Resources we list at the end of this section, you should consult with your doctor or healthcare provider about any health situation that gives you concern.
HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (HRT)
I have breast cancer and took hormone replacement
therapy before I was diagnosed. Should I
continue to take it?
Your doctor should advise you about whether
to continue this drug at the time you are
diagnosed with breast cancer. Generally,
hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is not
recommended for women who have been diagnosed
with breast cancer. Recent studies have found
that hormone replacement therapy raises the
risk of breast cancer and has other unwanted
health effects.
Is hormone replacement therapy
similar to the hormone therapy sometimes
given to women with breast cancer?
No. Researchers have found a way to use
hormones, such as tamoxifen, in therapy
against breast cancer. This is different
from hormone replacement therapy, which
is given to increase levels of hormones
(such as estrogen or progesterone) in the
body after menopause (when monthly periods
end). See Hormone Therapy on page 28 for
a description of hormone therapy for breast
cancer.
LYMPHEDEMA
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is swelling that may occur in
your arm, hand, upper trunk or breast after
breast cancer surgery. During breast cancer
surgery, lymph nodes are usually removed
from under the arm. This slows the flow
of lymph fluid in the area. The fluid may
build up and cause swelling. Removing many
lymph nodes and/or having radiation therapy
can increase the chances of having this
swelling. The problem can happen right
after surgery, or months to even years
later.
What is lymph fluid?
Lymph fluid is a colorless fluid containing
the white blood cells that fight infection
and disease. Lymph fluid travels through
the lymph system in your body much like
blood travels through arteries and veins.
What
are lymph nodes?
Lymph nodes are small, pea-sized organs
located in the lymph system. Their job
is to trap bacteria or cancer cells to
keep them from spreading throughout the
body. They are clustered in areas throughout
your body such as underarms, groin, neck,
chest and abdomen. The ones in your chest
and underarm are the ones that collect
the lymph fluid from your breast. This
is why they are often removed and looked
at while in surgery.
What are some safety
precautions?
You will need to protect the arm and
hand on the treated side for the rest
of your life. You must take extra caution
to protect your hand and arm from injury,
cuts, scrapes and insect bites. You may
have less protection against infection
in that arm. It is important to remind
healthcare workers to avoid drawing blood
and measuring your blood pressure on
that arm. Some people wear a medical
alert bracelet with this information
on it. Blood pressure can be taken on
your leg, if necessary.
It is also recommended that you wear gloves while doing housework, gardening and other activities that may put your arm or hand at risk for injury. Because it is possible for lymphedema to occur years after you have finished your treatment, protecting your arm and hand is key to avoiding this swelling or taking care of it as soon as it happens.
If you are at risk for developing lymphedema, the National Lymphedema Network recommends wearing a compression sleeve during air travel. A change in cabin pressure may bring on the first signs of lymphedema. You can get a compression sleeve from a lymphedema therapist with a doctor’s order. See our listing of lymphedema therapists below.
What about using anti-perspirant
or deodorant under my arm?
You should not use deodorants or anti-perspirants
while you are healing from surgery
on the underarm on the side of your surgery.
Once you are healed, you may use either
anti-perspirants or deodorants. Some
doctors will recommend use of deodorants
only. You should talk about this with
your healthcare team.
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Safety Precautions If You Are At Risk For Lymphedema
Adapted from What You Need to Know About Breast Cancer, from the Natonal Cancer Institute, 800.4.CANCER or http://www.cancer.gov. |
What
can I do about the swelling? Is it permanent?
You should
talk
with
your
doctor
about
this.
Sometimes, elevation of the arm for brief
periods throughout the day helps the
fluid drain. Other methods to reduce
swelling include arm exercises, gentle
massage to help the fluid drain, and
wearing a compression sleeve. Your doctor
should refer you to a therapist who specializes
in lymphedema treatment if you have a
persistent problem with this. If your
doctor does not refer you, ask for a
referral, or see our listings of lymphedema
therapists in North Carolina below. Lymphedema
can be a permanent condition. Treatment
should begin when you first notice swelling
or tightness in the arm, hand, underarm
or breast. This is the best way to prevent
long-term problems.
What is Complete Decongestive
Therapy?
Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) consists
of manual lymph drainage and compression
therapy. Therapists believe that by
improving the flow of lymph fluid, and
then maintaining improvement with a compression
sleeve, lymphedema can be successfully
treated. The therapy also includes exercises
and skin care that the patient can do at
home.
Manual lymph drainage (MLD) is a massage technique using light, rhythmic strokes to improve the flow of lymph fluid.
How
do I choose a lymphedema therapist?
Lymphedema therapists have a range
of training options. The programs they
attend vary in length. When you are
choosing a therapist, you might want
to consider how much training he or
she has. See North Carolina Lymphedema
Therapists below for more information
about training programs.
If you have questions about the trainings, call the National Lymphedema Network at 800.541.3259 or see http://www.lymphnet.org.
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Some Questions to Ask the Lymphedema Treatment Center
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MENOPAUSE (Natural and Chemically-Induced)
What is menopause?
Menopause is the time in a woman’s
life when monthly menstrual periods end.
This can occur naturally with aging or it
can occur from damage to the ovaries. Menopause
naturally occurs in women beginning in their
40s and 50s (but sometimes as young as the
30s).
Before menopause, your ovaries produce the hormone estrogen. Estrogen is responsible for your monthly menstrual periods. After menopause, your ovaries no longer produce estrogen.
Will chemotherapy cause menopause?Some chemotherapy drugs can damage the ovaries. If the damaged ovaries stop making hormones, the woman may have symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes or vaginal dryness. Her monthly periods may not be regular or may stop. After treatment some women resume their menstrual cycle. However, for other women this type of menopause can be permanent and has the same effect on the body as naturally occurring menopause. However, women who have early, chemically-induced menopause sometimes have more severe menopause-related symptoms than women who have natural menopause. Ask your doctor if your chemotherapy drugs could lead to early menopause.
What are some typical symptoms
of menopause?
Hot flashes, night sweats, sleep
problems, trouble concentrating, vaginal
dryness and changes in sexual function
are the most common effects of menopause.
Women can also feel more depressed, anxious
or irritable around this time. Longer
term, post-menopausal women have an
increased risk of high cholesterol, heart
disease and stroke. Also, women often lose
bone faster after menopause and may be
at risk for osteoporosis.
What can I do
about menopause symptoms, such as hot
flashes and vaginal dryness?
You should discuss menopause and
how it affects you with your doctor or
nurse. They may be able to prescribe
medications to help with hot flashes
or other symptoms. Vaginal dryness
can be addressed through the use of
lubricants prior to sexual activity.
There are many products available without
prescription to help with this problem.
Many people are beginning to explore the use of alternative therapies, such as herbs or soy food products, to help hot flashes and other symptoms. Some that have shown promise in helping menopause symptoms include black cohosh, red clover, hops, dong quai, flax seed and soy. Be sure to check with your doctor before trying alternative therapies. You must always be cautious about the possibility of taking something that may interfere with treatment or be unsafe for your health condition.
You should seek advice from
your healthcare provider about actions
you can take to keep your bones and heart
strong, such as exercising, quitting smoking,
maintaining a healthy weight, and taking
calcium and Vitamin D.
Could chemotherapy cause infertility?
Possibly. Because chemotherapy drugs can damage the ovaries, it can make a woman infertile (unable to become pregnant). For women over the age of 35, infertility may be permanent. However, if a woman remains fertile during chemotherapy, she may be able to become pregnant.
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Some Tips To Help With Hot Flashes Figure out if there is a “trigger” for your hot flashes, such as stress, caffeine, spicy foods, hot drinks or alcohol. For some women, avoiding a trigger can help reduce the number of hot flashes.
Remember that once you are past menopause, the hot flashes should lessen. They usually stop completely in a few years. Adapted from Menopause: One Woman’s Story, Every Woman’s Story, from the National Institute on Aging, 800.222.2225 or http://www.nia.nih.gov. |
OSTEOPOROSIS (Natural and Chemotherapy-Induced)
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis or “porous bones” is a condition of decreased bone
mass. It causes bones to weaken. Bone is living tissue that continuously undergoes
two processes: the breakdown of old bone and the formation of new bone in its
place. When more bone is broken down than is replaced with new tissue, osteoporosis
can result. Peak bone mass is usually reached by age 38. Then, bone begins
to lose mass as part of the aging process. As bone mass is lost, bones become
brittle and more fragile, and more likely to break. Men generally lose 20 to
30 percent of their bone mass over their lifetime, and women generally lose
45 to 50 percent of their bone mass.
Why is this important to me
now, and what are the risk factors?
As a person receiving cancer treatment, you may be at increased risk for
osteoporosis. Risk factors for
osteoporosis include:
- Age—the older you are, the greater your risk
- Gender—women are more likely to have osteoporosis
- Early menopause
- Chronic malnutrition
- Lifestyle—smoking, drinking too much alcohol, not getting enough weight-bearing exercise or calcium
- Family history and personal history of fractures
- Race—more prevalent in White and Asian women
- Long-term use of medication such as corticosteroids, anti-seizure or thyroid medications, some chemotherapy drugs and others
- Bone structure and body weight—small-boned and thin women (under 127 lbs.) are at greatest risk
- Immobility (not being able to move because of disability or other reason)
Chemotherapy can damage the ovaries and interfere with your body producing hormones such as estrogen. If this happens, especially if you end up in menopause, you are at increased risk for osteoporosis. The chemotherapy drug methotrexate can also cause bone loss. It is important that you discuss prevention and treatment strategies with your doctor or nurse.
Would I know if I had osteoporosis?
Early changes in bone density usually
cannot be felt and are painless. Osteoporosis
is a “silent” disease, and most people don’t know
they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. That is why it is important
to know the risk factors and to learn what you can do to prevent bone
weakening.
Can I be tested for osteoporosis?
Yes. Testing can be done for osteoporosis.
First, you should have a thorough health
history and physical exam to determine
your risk factors for osteoporosis. Your
doctor may recommend that you have a
Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test if you
are at high risk for osteoporosis. It
is a safe, painless and non-invasive
test. This establishes your baseline
bone density (to compare to future tests)
and provides useful information in determining
the best course of action for you.
In North Carolina, Bone Mineral Density (BMD) tests are being done in some pharmacies. The cost of measuring the BMD in the heel is generally around $30, and will give you a good idea of how dense your spine bone is. However, this test reveals very little about the hip bones, so you will not get the whole picture. The test will give you some information that you can take to your doctor to see if further testing is needed. The test takes about five minutes or less and is painless. You can have this test done without a referral from your doctor.
|
Tips
For Preventing Osteoporosis
Again, your healthcare team should advise you in regard to these strategies, but you should not hesitate to bring this up with them. |
SEXUALITY (Body Image, Relationships and Physical Changes)
Every woman’s body image and sense
of sensuality and sexuality is unique. No
two people have exactly the same response
or feelings when they learn they have breast
cancer. If a woman has a mastectomy, it can
be overwhelming and emotionally difficult
for some women. For others, it is a relief
to have the cancer removed.
Breasts are a part of many women’s
sexual identity. Breasts are symbolic of
nurturing, sustaining new life and intimacy.
The loss of a breast can be threatening to
your sense of self. It is important for you
to be open about your feelings for yourself
and your spouse, lover or partner.
When should
I think about breast reconstruction?
It is very important that you discuss
this fully with your surgeons. You may
want to consider options regarding breast
reconstruction before the time of your
initial surgery. If so, you should be referred
to a plastic surgeon for a full discussion
of your options. In some situations, reconstructing
the breast is not advised at the time of
your initial surgery, but can be done at
a later date after all of your cancer treatment
has been completed. Reconstruction can
also be chosen years down the road. Or,
you may choose not to reconstruct the breast
at all.
What if I choose not to have
breast reconstruction?
If you wish, external breast forms
(called “prostheses”)
are available to help minimize the look
or impression of losing a breast. There
are many different options available
to you. You might want to consider this
when deciding about surgery and potential
reconstruction options. (For more information,
see Reconstruction in After the Diagnosis
on page 29.) You may decide not to have
breast reconstruction or may be comfortable
not using a breast form.
Will my spouse
or partner feel differently about me
after surgery?
It is very important that you
talk with your partner. Open, honest
communication about your feelings, and
theirs, will help your overall sense
of well being and the intimacy you have
with your partner before and after treatment.
Your healthcare team may include a social
worker or psychologist who can help you
address your feelings and fears regarding
sexuality and intimacy. Your own acceptance
of your body changes can affect how others
react or respond to you.
I’m single and not in a relationship. How and when do I tell someone new in my life about my breast cancer and surgery?
Only you can decide whether you are ready to enter into a new relationship. You are the only person who can know whether you feel comfortable and “safe enough” in a new relationship to share your feelings, your experience and your body. While not a question with any easy answers, there are some things you can consider when you find yourself in a new relationship.
- First, have you come to terms with your body changes and your experience with breast cancer?
- Have you accepted the possible changes to your body that might later become issues in a relationship, such as early menopause and inability to bear children, or the possibility of cancer coming back (recurrence)?
- Are you comfortable enough with yourself and your experience to share it with someone else? Decide whether this new person is one who would be caring and sensitive to your needs. If not, then perhaps either the timing is not right or the person is not the right one for you.
Will my sex life be different
after breast cancer?
Very possibly, yes. Chemotherapy
for breast cancer can sometimes cause
a woman to go into early menopause.
For some women, this can be a difficult
time physically, emotionally and sexually.
The symptoms of early menopause are
sometimes more severe than those that
occur with natural menopause. These
symptoms can include hot flashes, vaginal
dryness and low sexual desire, as well
as depression, anxiety and increased
irritability.
What are some solutions to
sexual problems I may face?
The good news is that there are products
and strategies that can help with these
problems.
Hot flashes and night sweats can be
treated with specific drugs prescribed
by a doctor. Some women have also found
soy products or herbs to be helpful
(see the Menopause section on page
47 for more information on handling
hot flashes).
Vaginal dryness can be improved with the liberal use of a lubricant available in drugstores. Replens, a vaginal moisturizer, has been shown to be effective. Recent studies have found that Estrace (an estrogen cream used vaginally) helps restore the vaginal tissue. Topical doses of estrogen in mild doses may be effective in relieving vaginal dryness. However, some of the estrogen does get absorbed into the body. Check with your doctor about whether these options are right for you.
Low sexual desire is sometimes treated with hormones called androgens. You can have your hormone levels checked and discuss this option with a doctor. There are other personal ways to increase desire, such as reading erotic literature or watching videos. Almost all women who took pleasure in sex before cancer treatment can do so again, although sometimes it takes relearning and practice.
Healthcare providers can prescribe therapies that address other menopausal issues (depression, anxiety, irritability, increased risk of heart disease and osteoporosis). Several new therapies are now available.
Although your breasts may have played a part in your self esteem or sexual identity prior to surgery, remember that your breasts do not define who you are as a person. You are special no matter what the size or shape of your body, and you deserve to be in an open, honest and loving relationship with someone who cares about you—and accepts you—because of who you are in your heart, mind and soul.
RESOURCES
Organizations
American Cancer Society (ACS)
800.ACS.2345 or 866.228.4327 (TTY)
http://www.cancer.org
Provides information and services for all
forms of cancer; diagnosis, treatment and
many other topics. Has free booklets about
sexuality and cancer, and lymphedema.
Cancer Care
212.221.3300 or 800.813.HOPE (4673)
http://www.cancercare.org
All services are free. Provides emotional
support, information and practical help.
Staffed by trained oncology social workers.
Also has “Breast Cancer and Sexuality:
Surviving and Thriving.”
The Hormone Foundation
800.HORMONE (800.467.6663)
http://www.hormone.org
Publishes “Menopause: What Every Woman
Should Know,” a free resource about
menopause helpful for women who have had
breast cancer.
Living Beyond Breast Cancer
610.645.4567 or 888.753.LBBC (5222)
http://www.lbbc.org
Addresses post-treatment needs of women with
breast cancer through educational programs,
newsletter, helpline for survivors and family
members. Toll-free survivor’s helpline
above is available Tuesdays, 11:00 am to
3:00 pm.
Lymphology Association of North America
(LANA)
773.756.8971
http://www.clt-lana.org
Includes a listing of LANA-certified therapists,
and information for therapists on how to
certify.
National
Cancer Institute’s
Cancer Information Service
800.4.CANCER (800.422.6237)
http://www.cancer.gov
One of the best resources available for cancer
patients, this government organization provides
the toll-free hotline above in English and
Spanish for any questions about any type
of cancer. Has free booklets about hormone
replacement therapy and sexuality.
National Lymphedema Network, Inc.
510.208.3200 or 800.541.3259
http://www.lymphnet.org
Education and guidance for lymphedema patients,
healthcare workers and the general public.
Referrals to treatment centers, therapists
and support groups.
National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF)
202.223.2226
http://www.nof.org
Offers education, information, support and
advocacy. Has several informational booklets
(one in Spanish) and an osteoporosis exercise
video. Has an electronic support group called “Linking
Up,” which offers peer support for
men and women ages 20 to 50.
National
Women’s
Health Network
202.628.7814
http://www.womenshealthnetwork.org
A national, non-profit organization
focused on women’s health issues. Has
information on many topics, including breast
cancer, menopause, osteoporosis and more.
National
Women’s
Health Resource Center
877.986.9472
http://www.healthywomen.org
Offers comprehensive information on women’s
health topics. Has “Take Charge of
Your Menopause” kit.
North American Menopause Society
440.442.7550 or 800.774.5342
http://www.menopause.org
Has information about menopause-related issues,
lists of healthcare providers, discussion
groups and a reading list. Offers a “Menopause
Guidebook.”
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National
Resource Center (ORBD-NRC)
202.223.0344 or 800.624.BONE
http://www.osteo.org
Comprehensive information about osteoporosis,
Paget’s disease and related disorders.
Includes an osteoporosis ListServ (online
discussion group) sign-up.
Osteoporosis Coalition in North Carolina
Older Adult Health Branch
919.715.0122
Provides information about osteoporosis programs
in North Carolina. Offers written information
and support groups.
Resolve: National Infertility Association
781.334.4692 (administration) or 888.623.0744
(Helpline)
http://www.resolve.org
Has information about fertility, how to select
an infertility specialist and resources in
your area.
Books and More
After Breast Cancer, by Musa Mayer (2003). Reviews research on best practices for follow-up testing after breast cancer. Offers insight on how women cope with cancer. See http://www.patientcenters.com/breastcancer.
After Cancer: A Guide to Your New Life, by Wendy Schlessel Harpham, MD (1995). An overview written by a physician and cancer survivor. Discusses sexuality in the chapter “Where Did my Libido Go?” and offers practical advice.
Coping With Lymphedema: A Practical Guide to Understanding, Treating and Living with Lymphedema, by Joan Swirsky, RN, and Diane Sacket Nannery (1998). A guide to understanding, treating and living with lymphedema.
Dr. Susan Love’s Menopause and Hormone Book, by Susan M. Love, MD, with Karen Lindsey (2003). Offers comprehensive information on menopause and coping with symptoms, and addresses concerns about breast cancer.
Guide to Body Image and Cancer. This guide gives women tips about clothing types and styles to wear while undergoing treatment and beyond. Available through Women Helping Women in North Carolina (919.846.1203) or call 800.799.690 or see http://www.shopwellwithyou.org.
Lymphedema: A Breast Cancer Patient’s Guide to Prevention and Healing, by Jeannie Burt and Gwen White, PT (2000). Provides clear information on what lymphedema is, why it occurs, and discusses prevention and treatment.
One Move at a Time!: Exercises for Women Recovering from Breast Cancer, (video, 1996). Has simple, gentle exercises to restore range of motion and aid in the recovery of feeling in the arm. Order from 800.586.9062 or see http://www.cancerclub.com.
Pause (formerly Managing Menopause). Free magazine that includes helpful information on dealing with symptoms of menopause and women’s health issues. Published twice a year and available in OB-GYN offices.
Sexuality and Fertility After Cancer, by Leslie R. Schover, PhD (1997). Offers help for breast cancer survivors and partners to enjoy sex again and make informed choices about having children.
Strong Women, Strong Bones: Everything You Need to Know to Prevent, Treat and Beat Osteoporosis, by Miriam Nelson, PhD, with Sara Wernick, PhD (2001). Teaches women how to recognize, prevent and treat osteoporosis through exercise and nutrition.
Thriving After Breast Cancer: Essential Healing Exercises for Body and Mind, by Sherry Lebed Davis with Stephanie Gunning (1999). Features an exercise program developed by a former dancer and breast cancer survivor to help women heal from breast surgery, regain mobility and prevent or minimize lymphedema. Has a companion video, Focus on Healing Through Movement and Dance for the Breast Cancer Survivor. See http://www.lebedmethod.com.
Web Sites
Cancer-Sexuality Discussion List
http://www.acor.org
An online information and support group for
people with cancer and sexuality concerns.
Circle of Hope Lymphedema Foundation
http://lymphedemacircleofhope.org
A non-profit organization with information
about lymphedema, including travel, psychological
aspects, insurance and other issues.
Lymphedema Discussion List
http://www.acor.org
An online information and support group for
people with lymphedema.
Lymphedema People
http://lymphedema.omno.org
Created by lymphedema patients, this site
addresses many lymphedema issues.
The National
Woman’s
Health Information Center
http://www.4women.gov
Provides free, reliable health information
for women. Has a new “Menopause and
Hormone Therapy” section. Information
can be ordered from 800.994.9662.
Oncolink: Coping with Cancer
http://www.oncolink.org/coping
Includes information on cancer and sexuality.
Power Surge: A warm and caring community
for women in menopause
http://power-surge.com
Information and frequently asked questions
about menopause, interactive chats, medical
consultants, message board, Ask the Experts
and more.
SusanLoveMD.org: The Web Site for Women
http://susanlovemd.org
This site has comprehensive information about
breast cancer and related issues. Includes
information about hormones, menopause and
osteoporosis.
NORTH CAROLINA LYMPHEDEMA THERAPISTS
The following list is current through March 2006. We do not guarantee that this is a complete list of all lymphedema therapists in North Carolina. Check with your local hospital, cancer center or rehabilitation center for additional therapists.
Lymphedema
Training and Certification Programs
LeDuc (6 days of training), Klose-Norton
(12 days), Lerner (14 days), Casley-Smith
(14 days), Academy of Lymphatic Studies
(ACOLS)(14 days), Foldi (20 days), and
Vodder (20 days). Some programs teach Vodder “techniques,” but
only therapists who have completed the
20-day program are “Vodder credentialed.”
Recently, the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) began certifying lymphedema therapists who also passed a comprehensive national exam, have a minimum of 135 hours of training in Complete Decongestive Therapy, and at least one year of work experience. These therapists have “CLT-LANA” after their names.
If you have questions about the trainings, call the National Lymphedema Network at 800.541.3259 or see http://www.lymphnet.org.
ALAMANCE COUNTY
Ballard Therapeutic Massage
Nancy Ballard, LMT (Vodder credentialed)
2001 Rendall Street, Burlington, NC 27215
336.229.1053
Norma Noah, LBMT (Vodder credentialed)
1311 South Main Street, Burlington, NC 27215
336.229.5600
BUNCOMBE COUNTY
Cancer Care of Western Carolina
Maureen Joette Steiner, RN, OCN, CLT (ACOLS)
445 Biltmore Avenue, Suite 100, Asheville,
NC 28801
828.253.4262
Glasser Lymphedema Services
Peter Glasser, LBMT (Lerner)
1085 Tunnel Road, Suite 5, Asheville, NC
28801
828.299.4105 or 800.268.4262
http://www.uhealth.net
Mission Hospitals Wound Therapy Center
Kathleen McLoughlin, PT, CLT-LANA
(Casley-Smith, Vodder credentialed)
445 Biltmore Avenue, 2nd floor, Asheville,
NC 28801
828.213.4600 or 828.253.2846
BURKE COUNTY
Blue Ridge Healthcare System
Christine Hoban, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (ACOLS)
Grace Rehabilitation Center
2201 South Sterling Street, Morganton, NC
28655
828.580.6808
Blue Ridge Healthcare System
Shela Bridges (Casley-Smith)
Valdese Hospital
720 Malcolm Boulevard, Valdese, NC 28690
828.879.7592
CABARRUS COUNTY
Northeast Medical Center
Michelle DeFazio (LeDuc)
487 Lake Concord Road, Concord, NC 28025
704.783.1705
CALDWELL COUNTY
Caldwell Memorial Hospital
Foothills Area Lymphedema Treatment Center
Jaime Penley, OTR/L, MLD, CDT (Klose-Norton)
Jean Powell, OTR/L, MLD, CDT (Klose-Norton)
1031 Morganton Boulevard, Suite A, Lenoir,
NC 28645
828.757.6226
CARTERET COUNTY
Therapy Center of Cedar Point
James E. Tracy, PT (Vodder credentialed)
702 Cedar Point Boulevard, Cedar Point, NC
28584
252.393.8828 or tccpjtracy@bizec.rr.com
CATAWBA COUNTY
Frye Regional Medical Center, Outpatient
Rehab
Stephanie Hollar, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
420 North Center Street, Hickory, NC 28601
828.324.3379
CLEVELAND COUNTY
Cleveland Physical Therapy Association
Stacy Rumfelt, OTR/L, CLT -LANA (ACOLS)
1129 East Marion Street, Shelby, NC 28150
704.471.0001
Cleveland Regional Rehabilitaton
Tonya Craig, OTR/L (Foldi)
411 Cherryville Road, Shelby, NC 28150
704.482.1191
CRAVEN COUNTY
Haliburton Naval Hospital
Daniel Higgins (ACOLS), Tracy Scott (ACOLS)
PSC 8023, Cherry Point, NC 28533
(practice restricted to military personnel/families)
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
HealthPlex
Cape Fear Valley Health Systems
Clara Womack (LeDuc)
1930 Skibo Road, Fayetteville, NC 28314
910.409.4001
Southeast Regional Rehab
Cape Fear Valley Health Systems
Christopher Bierman (LeDuc), Lucas Henry
(Supervisor)(LeDuc), Douglas Yarboro (LeDuc)
1638 Owen Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314
910.609.6194
DUPLIN COUNTY
Glencare
Robert Erkstam, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
214 Lanefield Road, Warsaw, NC 28598
910.293.3390
(also serves locations in Burgaw and Hampstead,
NC)
DURHAM COUNTY
Health Associates
Maryska Bigos, LMT (Vodder credentialed)
906 Broad Street, Durham, NC 27705
919.286.7688 Ext. 7
Lenox Baker Children’s
Hospital
Adult Outpatient Services
Alison Valdepenas, CLT, DPT (Vodder techniques),
Lisa Massa, CLT-LANA (ACOLS), Tina Lyons-Bowman,
OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS), Jen Mckelvey, OTR/L,
CLT (ACOLS)
3000 Erwin Road, Durham, NC 27705
919.684.0874 or 919.684.4543 (appointment
line)
FORSYTH COUNTY
Martinat Outpatient Center
Michelle Keider, OTR/L (Vodder techniques,
Casley-Smith), Summer Henson, OTR/L
1903 South Hawthorne Road, Winston-Salem,
NC 27103
336.718.6700
North Carolina Baptist Hospital
OT/PT Department
Ann Fleischer, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (Vodder credentialed)
Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem,
NC 27157
336.716.3350
GASTON COUNTY
Gaston Memorial Rehab and Sports Medicine
Laurent Prunet, LMT (Vodder credentialed)
660 Summit Place Crossing, Suite 208
Gastonia, NC 28054
704.671.5730
GUILFORD COUNTY
High Point Rehabilitation Center
600 North Elm Street, High Point, NC 27262
336.878.6915
Moses Cone Outpatient Rehabilitation
Amy Arnold, PT, Marti Cooper-Smith, PT
603 Volley Madison Road, Suite 202
Greensboro, NC 27410
336.315.4760
HENDERSON COUNTY
Pardee Rehab & Sports
Therapy Services
Siobhan Gore, MS, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
212-B Thompson Street, Hendersonville, NC
28792
828.698.6774
JACKSON COUNTY
West Care Health System
Susan Ransbottom, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
Amanda Mercure, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
68 Hospital Road, Sylva, NC 28779
828.586.7236
LENOIR COUNTY
NovaCare Rehabilitation
Charlie Ingle, PT, CLT-LANA (Lerner)
1610 North Queen Street, Kinston, NC 28501
252.522.1960 or 252.522.3298
LINCOLN COUNTY
Lincolnton Medical Center
Jill Jones, OTR/L (Casley-Smith, Foldi)
Susan U’Ren, OTR/L (Casley-Smith, Foldi)
200 Gamble Drive, Box 677, Lincolnton, NC
28093
704.732.5548
MECKLENBURG COUNTY
Adair and Associates
Jennifer Merritt-Nemrava (Vodder credentialed)
6211 Carmel Road, Suite 204, Charlotte, NC
28226
704.542.5420
Charlotte Institute of Rehabilitation
William Bockneck, MD (Medical Director) or
Sharon Kanelos, MD, Missy Davis, PT, Delane
Frutiger, PT, CLT (ACOLS), Lisa Griffith,
OTR/L, Calvin Hung, PT, Elizabeth Koenig,
OTR/L, CLT-LANA, and Mamta Patel (all Vodder ‘techniques’)
1100 Blythe Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203
704.355.4450
Charlotte Integrative Therapy
Services, LLC
Tanya Wilson, LMT, CLT (ACOLS); Taheera Kahn,
OT, CLT (Klose-Norton)
841 Baxter Street, Suite 120, Charlotte,
NC 28202
704.332.3393 or naturalchoices@earthlink.net
Life Roots Lymphatic & Massage
Therapy Center
Stan Swider, M.Ed, LMT, CLT (ACOLS, Vodder,
MLD)
20901 Torrence Chapel Road, Suite 103, Cornelius,
NC 28031
704.987.9987
http://www.liferootscenter.com
Lymphatic Therapy Specialists, Inc.
Lisa Malec, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (Vodder credentialed)
906 Pelican Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28205
704.649.7660
Physical Therapy Specialists
Erin C. Moreau, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
9718-B Sam Furr Road, Huntersville, NC 28078
704.655.0200
Presbyterian Lymphedema Services
Presbyterian Cancer Center
Debbie Curtis (Casley-Smith)
Jana Van Rooyen (Casley-Smith)
200 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204
704.384.3691
NASH COUNTY
Heather Rogers, OTR/L (Vodder credentialed)
124 North Englewood Drive, Rocky Mount, NC
27804
252.451.9085
NEW HANOVER COUNTY
Lymphedema Management of Wilmington
Alicia Donatone, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (Vodder
credentialed)
219 Racine Drive, Suite C, Wilmington, NC
28403
910.264.9233
Mariner Health
Kimberley Kiernan, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (Vodder
credentialed)
820 Wellington Avenue, Wilmington, NC 28401
910.343.0425
NHRMC Outpatient Oleander Rehab
New Hanover Regional Medical Center
Michelle DuPree Zumbo, PT (LeDuc)
Catherine “Beth” Moody, PT (LeDuc)
5220 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
910.452.8104
Physical Therapy for Women
Leslie Clark, MPT, CLT-LANA (Vodder techniques)
Arboretum Centre, 5919 Oleander Drive, Suite
123, Wilmington, NC 28403
910.798.2318
ONSLOW COUNTY
Onslow Memorial Rehabilitation Center
Linda Larson, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
237 White Street, Jacksonville, NC 28546
910.577.2372
ORANGE COUNTY
Lymflo Therapies
Joanna Burgess, RN, Carol Johnson, OTR/L,
CLT-LANA, Doris Laing, LMT, Gabriele Melville,
OTR/L, CLT, Theresa Gilliam, MS, OTR/L,
CLT (all Vodder credentialed)
2226 Nelson Highway, Suite H, Chapel Hill,
NC 27517
919.493.1170 or lymflo@aol.com
http://www.lymflo.com
Plum Spring Clinic
Juul Bruin, CMLT, (Vodder credentialed),
Alma Vinje-Harrewijn, PT (Upledger credentialed)
104 Market Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27416
919.945.0300
http://www.plumspring.com
PITT COUNTY
Outpatient Rehabilitative Services at ViQuest
Center
Dana Kimberly, MS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA (ACOLS)
Allyson Daugherty, PT, CLT (ACOLS)
2610 Stantonsburg Road, Greenville, NC 27834
252.847.7547
ROBESON COUNTY
Southeastern Lifestyle
Center for Fitness & Rehabilitation
Jamie Sickles, OTA, CLT (ACOLS), Jyutika
Zope, OTR/L
4895 Fayetteville Road, Lumberton, NC 28358
910.738.4554
ROCKINGHAM COUNTY
Morehead Outpatient Therapy
Debbie Dabbs, PT
640 South Van Buren Road, Eden, NC 27288
336.627.6199
RUTHERFORD COUNTY
One Source Rehab
Linda DeArmond, PT (Vodder credentialed)
671 Oak Street, Suite 202, Forest City, NC
28043
828.247.1588
SAMPSON COUNTY
Sampson Regional Medical Center, Outpatient
Rehab
Carmel Spaulding, PT, CLT (ACOLS)
405 Beaman Street, Clinton, NC 28328
910.596.4244
SCOTLAND COUNTY
Scotland Physical Therapy
Amy Kushner, PT, CLT-LANA (ACOLS)
500 Lauchwood Drive, Laurinburg, NC 28352
910.291.7800 or amykushner@scotlandhealth.org
VANCE COUNTY
Maria Parham Medical Center
Elizabeth Karan, MS, OTR/L, CLT (ACOLS)
566 Ruin Creek Road, Henderson, NC 27536
252.436.1600
WAKE COUNTY
Blue Ridge Medical Group
Aisha Shoman, DPT, CLT (ACOLS)
3214 Charles B. Root Wynd, Suite 217, Raleigh,
NC 27612
919.789.4696
Center for Stress and Pain Management
Maria Parra, LMT (Vodder credentialed)
Karen Watko, LMT (Vodder credentialed)
3509 Haworth Drive, Suite 402, Raleigh, NC
27609
919.785.0705
Duke Health Raleigh Hospital Outpatient
Rehabilitation
Carol Johns, PT, CLT-LANA (Lerner)
3325 Executive
Drive, Suite 222, Raleigh, NC 27609
919.954.3492
Dunn Physical Therapy
Jennifer Maddocks, MPT, MLD, CDT (ACOLS)
3701 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 301, Cary, NC
27513
919.388.0111
Linda Griffin (Vodder credentialed)
119
West Judd Street, Zebulon, NC 27597
919.269.8194
Moonshadow Therapeutic Massage
Miriam Reid, OTR/L, LMBT, CLT-LANA (ACOLS)
216 East Chatham Street, Cary, NC 27511
919.466.9494
http://www.moonshadowmassage.com
Oasis Personalized Wellness Therapies
Christine P. Thomas, MS, PT, CLT (Klose-Norton)
101 Grandtree Court, Cary, NC 27519
919.624.6274 or cpthomas_99@yahoo.com
Rex Outpatient Rehabilitation Services
Celeste Blankenship, PT, Nancy Reifstock,
OTR/L, Assunta Rossler, PTA, Shelley Bridges,
OTR/L, Connie Nehls, PT (all ACOLS)
2709 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 200, Raleigh,
NC 27607
919.784.4696
WakeMed Outpatient Rehabilitation
Lorraine Gupton, OT, CLT (ACOLS), Valerie
Hunsel, OTR/L (ACOLS)
3000 New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27610
919.350.8551
WakeMed Outpatient Rehabilitation
Cinthia Williford, DPT, CLT (ACOLS)
3701 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh, NC 27609
919.350.4200
Wellness One
Michelle Sydnor, OTR/L, CHT, CLT-LANA, Shannon
Holt, OTR/L (ACOLS), Jennifer Speri, PT,
Vivian Mast, PT, Ann Marie Benjamin, PT
(all Vodder credentialed)
2418 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 100, Raleigh,
NC 27607
919.782.5954
http://www.wellnessone.com
Wellness One
Debra Albrecht, PT (Vodder credentialed)
200 Asheville Avenue, Suite 30, Cary, NC
27511
919.859.9333
http://www.wellnessone.com
WAYNE COUNTY
Southeastern Medical Oncology Center
203 Cox Boulevard, Goldsboro, NC 27534
919.580.0000 or 800.849.0203
WILKES COUNTY
Wilkes Regional Medical Center Rehabilitation
Services
Cindy Bentley, OTR/L (Modified LeDuc)
Sandra Cannon , OTR/L (LeDuc)
1370 West D Street, North Wilkesboro, NC
28659
336.903.7850
http://www.wilkesregional.org
WILSON COUNTY
Wilson Medical Center
Lori Boswell, PT, CLT-LANA (ACOLS), Teresa
Maier, PT, CLT-LANA (ACOLS)
1705 South Tarboro Street, Wilson, NC 27893
252.399.8147