P5140085

Lymphedema of Lower Leg

Lymphedema of the lower extremity is thc result of edema that forms in the lower extremity from acutc or chronic dysfunction. In an acute injury the degree of edema may be to significant for the lymph system to remove in a short period of time. In a chronic condition the lymph system is not able to channel the fluid in the normal pathways and edema has formed in the dependent extremity.

The Kincsio Taping Method will assist in reducing edema by application of the lymphatic corrective technique. This is accomplished by lifting of the skin which decreases pressure and allows for moro norma! flow of lymphatic fluids ( for morę extensive review see lymphatic corrective technique).

The practitioner will need to determine where the lymphatic system has diminished function and by application of the lymphatic corrective technique channel the fluid to another part of the system which i$ funclioning normally.

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Lymphatic drainage will be demonstrated from the distal to the proximal lymph vessel. During practical application not all sections may be requirM Begin by placing the base of the Kinesio fan strip on the posterior medial aspect of the knee, with no tension. Be careful of placing strips in the popliteal fossa, this may cause irritation. Angle the fan strips in an inferior direction.

Have the patient place the knee in extension and the foot in dorsiflexion. Lay down the fan strips wiu, nonę to very lit tle, 0-15%of available tension overt|w area of edema. The distal 1-2 inches should be laid down with no tension.

A second Kinesio fan strip may be applied either from slightly higher or lower on the posterior media] aspect of the knee, or from the posterior lateral asp^ of the knee. Angle the fan strips in an inferior direction. The taiis of the two Kinesio fan strips should form a crisscross pattern over the area of edema.

Have the patient place the knee in extension and the foot in dorsiflexion.

Initiate glue activation prior to any further patient movement.

Optional 3rd Kinesio Fan Strip:

If this optional third fan strip is used it should be applied first.

Begin by placing the base of the Kinesio fan strip inferior to the insertion of the Achilles tendon into the calcaneous. Angle the fan strips in a superior direction.

Have the patient place the knee in extension and the foot in dorsiflexion.

Initiate glue activation prior to any further patient move-

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