Certified Lymphedema Therapist

Cook Hospital is pleased to announce that Katie Hautman, OTR/L-CLT, has successfully completed a continuing education course and received her certification as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) through Klose Training. The course was held by Guenter Klose CLT-LANA, MLD/CDT Certified Instructor, Executive Director and the founder of Klose Training, and Joy Macheel PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, CWS.

The course focused on the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system, evaluation techniques, and safe and effective treatment for lymphedema. Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of protein-rich fluid that causes inflammation and fibroses tissue of the affected area (Klose Training, 2018). Lymphedema can be categorized either as primary or secondary lymphedema. Primary lymphedema develops due to an abnormal development of the lymph vascular system, which may be present at birth or develop later in life. Secondary lymphedema has a known cause such as; surgery and/or radiation from cancer, severe trauma, infection, chronic venous insufficiency, filariasis, and/or obesity (Klose Training, 2018).

The course provided countless hours of hands on training for the proper skills needed to manage lymphedema. Lymphedema is a chronic disease, and may be managed through the appropriate use of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT is the most effective form of treatment for lymphedema, which consists of four components. These components are Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), Compression Therapy, Exercise, and Skin Care. MLD is a gentle manual treatment that is used to re-route the lymph flow around blocked areas to healthy lymph vessels. Compression therapy is used to increase tissue pressure to improve muscle and joint pumps, as well as, helping to prevent re-accumulation of fluid. Education on the importance of exercise and self-care is also provided to assist with the management of lymphedema.

To learn more about this specific treatment method or to find out if it is right for you, please contact Katie Hautman, OTR/L-CLT at Cook Hospital, Cook, MN 218.666.6225. A referral from your physician is required. Our hours of operation are: M-F 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.