Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) at Body ‘n Balance

The Gold Standard in Lymphedema and Lipedema Management.

What is CDT?

Combined Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is a comprehensive, multi-faceted treatment program designed to reduce and manage chronic swelling, known as Lymphedema. Because Lymphedema is a long-term condition that affects the lymphatic system's ability to drain fluid, a single-pronged approach is rarely enough.

CDT is a non-invasive, highly effective protocol that combines several therapeutic techniques to reduce limb volume, improve skin health, and empower you with the tools for long-term self-management.

Why Choose Body ‘n Balance for Lymphedema Care?

Expertise You Can Trust Our Registered Massage Therapist, Jennifer Swan, is a Level 3 Vodder Certified Therapist. This is the highest level of certification available, specifically qualifying her to treat patients with compromised lymphatic systems and chronic edema.

Local ADP Support & Custom Fittings Navigating the world of compression garments can be overwhelming. As part of our CDT program in Wasaga Beach, we provide:

  • Authorized ADP Assistance: We help you navigate the Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP), assisting with the paperwork required to access provincial funding for your compression supplies.

  • Expert Measurements: Jennifer provides professional, medical-grade measurements to ensure your custom garments fit perfectly for your unique anatomy.

  • Product Sourcing: We order your custom sleeves, stockings, and wraps directly, ensuring you receive the highest quality products without having to travel out of town.

The Four Pillars of CDT

To achieve lasting results, our CDT program follows the internationally recognized "Four Pillar" approach:

  1. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Specialized, gentle manual techniques used to reroute lymphatic fluid away from congested areas toward healthy, functioning lymph nodes.

  2. Compression Therapy: The use of multi-layered bandages (during the intensive phase) and custom-fitted compression garments (during the maintenance phase) to prevent fluid from re-accumulating.

  3. Skin and Nail Care: Focused education and protocols to maintain skin integrity and prevent infections, such as cellulitis, which can be a complication of chronic swelling.

  4. Therapeutic Exercise: Specific, low-impact movements performed while wearing compression to utilize the "muscle pump" to further move lymphatic fluid.

What to Expect During Your CDT Journey

CDT is typically delivered in two phases:

  • Phase I (Reduction): An intensive phase focused on significantly reducing the size of the affected limb. This involve frequent MLD sessions and daily multi-layer bandaging.

  • Phase II (Maintenance): Once the limb size is stabilized, the focus shifts to long-term management. You will transition to wearing custom compression garments and continue with home-care exercises and occasional "tune-up" MLD sessions.

Is CDT Right for Me?

CDT is the recommended treatment for individuals living with:

  • Primary or Secondary Lymphedema

  • Lipedema

  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

  • Post-Cancer Treatment Swelling (e.g., after lymph node removal)

  • Chronic Edema that does not respond to elevation or diuretics

Looking for Post-Op or Wellness Care? If you are recovering from a recent surgery (such as cosmetic or orthopedic procedures) and do not have a chronic diagnosis, our [Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)] service may be better suited to your needs.