Therapist Certification

• Over 63,000 children and adults* live with primary or secondary lymphedema in Ontario.
• 246,000 Ontario cancer survivors** are at a lifetime risk of developing lymphedema.
• Currently, Ontario has just over 100 certified lymphedema therapists.
• Some parts of Ontario have little or no access to a certified lymphedema therapist.

* Lymphedema Association of Ontario estimate (2004).
** Based on Cancer Care Ontario data (2004).

The Lymphedema Association of Ontario (LAO) is working to improve lymphedema care with better access to lymphedema certification, training and professional development in Ontario. Contact us for details.

Certified lymphedema therapists are health professionals (nurses or doctors) or allied health professionals (physiotherapists, occupational therapists or registered massage therapists) who have gained additional post-graduate certification to specialize in lymphedema care.

Certified Lymphedema Therapy Training includes:

• Pathophysiology of lymphatic function and disorders.
• Manual techniques and compression bandaging/garment principles.
• Theory and practice of Complete Decongestive Therapy.
• Minimum 135 hours of post-graduate training (1/3 theory to 2/3 practical).

Professional Standards of Lymphedema Training

The Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) promotes standards for the management of lymphedema and/or related disorders. LANA advocates for the establishment and maintenance of certification for medical professionals who provide such services.

Training Programs

Canada

Integrated Lymph Drainage

Dr. Vodder School International

United States

Academy of Lymphatic Studies

Complex Lymphatic Therapy Courses

Klose Training & Consulting

Lymphatic Care Specialists, LLC

Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy

Upledger Institute

Europe

Földi

Macmillan Lymphoedema Academy