Complex decongestive physical therapy and low-level laser therapy for the treatment of pediatric congenital lymphedema: a case report

• Published in: Journal of Physical Therapy Science Vol. 27; no. 6; pp. 2021 - 2022
• Main Authors: Lee, Ju Sang, Chung, Sin Ho, Hwang, Woon Taek
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 2015
• Subjects: Case Study; Complex decongestive physical therapy; Low-level laser therapy; Lymphedema; Low-level laser therapy; Lymphedema; Complex decongestive physical therapy
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.27.2021

[Purpose] We report the case of a pediatric patient with congenital lymphedema treated with complex decongestive physical therapy and low-level laser therapy. [Subjects and Methods] The patient was a 2 year-old girl who had lymphedema in the left upper limb since birth. Complex decongestive physical therapy and low-level laser therapy were administered for 7 sessions. [Results] The circumferences of the middle of the forearm, elbow joint, wrist, and hand of the left upper limb decreased 0.5, 3, 0.5, and 2 cm, respectively. The moisture content of the left upper limb decreased 70 mL (6.66%), while moisture ratio increased by 0.007%. [Conclusion] Complex decongestive physical therapy and low-level laser therapy are effective for reducing lymphedema in pediatric patients.