Marie-Anne Hisem RMT, CLT

04/27/2026

If you’re living with lymphedema in your hand, you know the "heavy" feeling all too well. While compression gloves are the gold standard, many of my patients ask: "Can KT tape actually help move this fluid?"

​The short answer? Yes—but only if you use the right technique!

How it works:
​When applied correctly, the tape microscopically lifts the skin. This creates a pressure change that helps lymph fluid bypass "clogged" areas and move toward healthy drainage points.

​⚠️ 3 Must-Know Tips:

• ​Zero Tension: Unlike sports taping, do not stretch the tape. High tension can actually block flow. Lay it down gently like a second skin.

• ​The "Fan" Cut: Cut the tape into 4-5 thin strips (tails) with one solid base. Anchor the base at your wrist and lay the tails over the back of your hand.
• ​Skin Safety: The hand is sensitive! Always do a patch test first to avoid blisters or irritation.

​Taping is like a "24/7 gentle massage." It’s a great way to boost your results between MLD sessions or under your compression glove!

​Have any questions? Drop them below! 👇

​

04/22/2026

More Than "Just Swelling": Understanding the Skin-Lymph Connection

Does a "heavy" feeling in your legs ever turn into redness, itching, or leathery skin? You aren't just dealing with tired legs, you might be seeing the signs of Phlebolymphedema.

When your veins struggle to pump blood back to your heart (Venous Insufficiency), the "overflow" puts massive stress on your lymphatic system. Over time, this protein-rich fluid builds up, leading to the clinical signs seen here:
🔴 Stasis Dermatitis: That signature redness and scaling isn't just a "rash." It’s an inflammatory response to trapped fluid breaking down your skin barrier.
🧱 Fibrosis: Notice a leathery or hardened texture? Chronic swelling can lead to tissue scarring, making the skin feel thick and "woody".
⚠️ The Infection Risk: This skin is fragile! Even a tiny crack or scratch can become a doorway for bacteria, leading to serious infections like Cellulitis.

How I treat this in the clinic:
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A specialized, light-touch technique to reroute trapped fluid.
• Compression Therapy: The "gold standard" to support your veins and move fluid out of the tissues.
• Meticulous Skin Care: Using low-pH moisturizers to keep that barrier strong and infection-free.

Don't wait until it "weeps" or turns into an ulcer. Early intervention is the key to maintaining mobility and skin health.

💬 Have you noticed your skin changing with your swelling? Let’s talk below.

CompressionWorks LymphaticDrainage WoundCare

04/21/2026

Cording isn’t just in the armpit… and it’s often misunderstood.

Most people have heard of axillary web syndrome (AWS) after breast cancer treatment, but what about cording along the torso?

Axillary Web Syndrome (AWS):
Typically shows up in the armpit after surgery (like lymph node removal)
Feels like tight “cords” or bands under the skin
Can limit shoulder movement and cause pulling pain down the arm

Torso Cording:
Extends beyond the armpit into the chest wall, ribs, or even abdomen
Often missed or mistaken for muscle tightness or scar restriction
Can impact posture, breathing, and trunk mobility

Key Difference:
AWS = primarily armpit + arm restriction
Torso cording = deeper, wider spread along the body

Why this matters:
If you’re only treating the armpit… you’re missing part of the problem.

Effective treatment may include:
✔️ Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
✔️ Gentle fascial release
✔️ Targeted mobility exercises
✔️ Gradual stretching (not aggressive!)

Cording is treatable—and the sooner it’s addressed, the better the outcome.

04/14/2026

Cupping & Surgical Incisions: What You Need to Know

After surgery, healing isn’t just about the surface—it’s about restoring lymphatic flow and fascia mobility underneath.

When an incision forms, scar tissue can create restrictions in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding everything in your body).

These restrictions may:
• Slow down lymphatic drainage
• Lead to swelling or fluid buildup
• Cause tightness or pulling sensations
• Limit proper movement and healing

💡 This is where cupping therapy can help—when used correctly.

I use a gentle, therapeutic cupping technique that:
✔ Lifts the skin and fascia (instead of pushing down)
✔ Encourages healthy lymphatic flow
✔ Helps reduce swelling and congestion
✔ Improves mobility around scar tissue

🚫 No fire used
🚫 No big circular bruises

This is NOT the aggressive style of cupping you may have seen online. My approach is controlled, targeted, and designed specifically for post-surgical and lymphatic clients.

⚠️ Important: Cupping is never applied directly on a fresh incision. Once healed, working around the area can safely support recovery and improve outcomes.

Healing is more than closing a wound—it’s about restoring movement, flow, and function.

💬 Have questions about swelling, scars, or recovery?

Send me a message. I’m happy to help.

03/27/2026

After a mastectomy, healing doesn’t always mean everything is moving the way it should internally.

Scar tissue can act like a roadblock.

Lymphatic fluid is meant to flow freely, but when it meets a dense, restricted scar, it can slow down or even get redirected. Over time, this can contribute to swelling and increase the risk of lymphedema.

This is something many women aren’t told.

As a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, one of the key areas I assess is scar mobility. A scar that looks “healed” on the surface may still be tight and adhered underneath—impacting lymphatic flow.

Treatment focuses on:
🌟 Gentle myofascial stretching to soften and mobilize the scar
🌟 Improving tissue glide so fluid can move more efficiently
🌟 Supporting the lymphatic system with targeted Manual Lymphatic Drainage
🌟 Education on self-care to maintain results at home

This work is gentle, but powerful.

If you’ve had breast surgery and notice heaviness, tightness, or swelling—don’t ignore it. Early intervention matters.

Your body is always communicating, let’s make sure nothing is getting “stuck” along the way 💛

03/19/2026

I had such a full circle moment today while on vacation in Orlando.

Two years ago, I graduated as a Lymphedema Therapist, and today I had the opportunity to visit my teacher’s clinic and observe her in action. Watching her treat patients again reminded me exactly why I chose this path. Her skill, precision, and the way she connects with each patient is truly something special.

What stood out even more was hearing her patients speak about her, more than once I heard, “she’s the best therapist around.” And honestly, I couldn’t agree more.
As a former student, it’s incredibly inspiring to see the level of care and expertise she continues to bring to her practice. Experiences like this reinforce my passion for what I do and the standard of care I strive to provide to my own patients every day.

Grateful for the opportunity to learn from the best💛

03/16/2026

⚠️ Cellulitis & Lymphedema: Know the Warning Signs ⚠️
If you live with lymphedema, it’s important to be aware of the risk of cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection that can develop quickly and may become serious if not treated promptly.

💡 Why it matters:
Lymphedema causes swelling due to a buildup of lymph fluid. This can weaken the body’s ability to fight infection in the affected area, making the skin more vulnerable to bacteria.

🚨 Common warning signs of cellulitis include:
• Sudden increase in swelling
• Redness or warmth of the skin
• Pain or tenderness
• Fever or chills
• Skin that feels tight or looks shiny
• Red streaking or spreading redness

❗ What to do:
If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Early treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent complications and worsening of lymphedema.

🛡️ Prevention tips for those with lymphedema:
✔ Keep skin clean and well moisturized
✔ Treat cuts, scratches, or insect bites promptly
✔ Avoid skin injuries when possible
✔ Wear properly fitted compression garments
✔ Monitor your limb daily for changes

Your skin is your first line of defense. Staying aware of the signs of cellulitis can help you act quickly and protect your lymphatic health.

💬 If you live with lymphedema and have questions about prevention or management, speak with a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).

03/07/2026

Did You Know? 🤔
Your lymphatic system doesn’t have its own pump like the heart does.
Instead, it relies on movement, muscle contractions, breathing, and manual therapies to help circulate lymph fluid throughout the body.

That means everyday activities like:
✔️ Walking
✔️ Stretching
✔️ Deep breathing
✔️ Gentle exercise
✔️ Manual Lymphatic Drainage

…all help support your lymphatic flow and overall immune health.

For people living with swelling conditions like Lymphedema, movement becomes an essential part of managing symptoms and supporting the lymphatic system.

💡 Small movements can make a big difference.

CancerRehab RMT LymphedemaTherapy

03/05/2026

03/03/2026

March is Lymphedema Awareness Month 💛

As a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, I work with individuals experiencing swelling after cancer treatment, surgery, radiation, or due to primary lymphedema.

What I wish more people knew:

✨ Lymphedema is chronic but manageable
✨ Early treatment matters
✨ Compression is not optional — it’s essential
✨ Education empowers patients

My goal is always to educate, problem-solve, and create individualized plans that help my clients feel confident managing their condition long-term.

If you’ve been told “it’s just swelling,” let’s have a conversation.

Early intervention makes a huge difference.
If you or someone you love is living with persistent swelling, know that help is available. You deserve proper assessment and care.

Let’s raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those living with lymphedema 💛

💛

02/08/2026

I consider all my clients my family and so I am pleased to tell you all I am open on FAMILY DAY, Monday Feb 16th.

01/17/2026

Easy Face and Neck Lymphatic Drainage Routine
Complete Decongestive Therapy for Head and Neck Lymphedema.

This routine can also be helpful when you have a head cold or sinus congestion