Term: complete decongestive therapy

Pronunciation: (kum-PLEET DEE-kun-JEH-stiv THAYR-uh-pee)

Description:

A treatment program used to help manage the symptoms of lymphedema (swelling caused by a buildup of lymph in the tissues). Complete decongestive therapy includes gentle massage and special compression bandaging to help move lymph through the body. It also includes exercises to help control swelling and improve mobility in the affected arm or leg and skin and nail care to prevent infection.