Occupational Therapy

OT services are available in many settings, and our therapists work with people across the lifespan. We take a whole-person approach, focusing not only on your body but also your environment, habits, and goals. Together, we help you find safe and successful ways to do the things you want and need to do.

How OT Can Help

Our therapists support a wide range of needs, including:

• Lymphedema or edema management following cancer, surgeries, or unknown causes
• Pre- and post-orthopedic care for the elbow and hand
• Pain management for the elbow and hand
• Upper-body muscle weakness
• Neurological disorders such as stroke, head injuries, and Parkinson’s disease
• Home modification and adaptive equipment recommendations
• Power wheelchair, scooter, or manual wheelchair assessments
• Activities of daily living training and modifications (dressing, bathing, toileting, self-feeding, grooming, cooking, laundry, etc.)
• BIG and LOUD Program

What to Expect in OT

During therapy, your OT may guide you through exercises to improve movement, strength, and flexibility. You may also receive Manual Lymph Mobilization (a gentle massage technique for swelling), as well as help choosing and using compression garments if needed.

We also focus on teaching you new ways to complete daily tasks so you can move with less pain and more confidence. If required, we will help with documentation for insurance approval of specialized wheelchairs or mobility devices.

Hands-on treatments, such as joint mobilization, sensation retraining, or therapeutic modalities like kinesiotaping, ultrasound, ice, heat, iontophoresis, or paraffin, may be included based on your needs.

Your Goals Are Our Priority

Our team is here to support you every step of the way. We are dedicated to helping you regain strength, improve independence, and feel more confident in your daily life.

Together, we’ll work toward helping you live a stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling life.

Meet Our Team:

• Deanna Girling, COTA/L
• Brandt Becker, OTR/L
• Kari Schumacher, Patient Access

Programs We Offer

Learn About Our Lymphedema and Edema Management Therapy

Lymphedema is swelling that usually affects an arm or a leg, but it can also occur in the face, neck, or abdomen. This swelling happens when protein-rich fluid builds up in the tissues because the lymphatic system isn’t working as well as it should.

Lymphedema can develop after surgery, radiation treatments, scarring, injuries, infections, or from inherited conditions where the lymph nodes or vessels are missing or not functioning properly.

How Do We Treat Lymphedema?

Our certified lymphedema therapists begin by getting to know you and your unique needs. During your first visit, you’ll receive a gentle and thorough evaluation so we can create a personalized plan to help you feel more confident managing your symptoms.

A key part of treatment is manual lymph drainage (MLD), a special type of gentle massage that helps move lymph fluid out of swollen areas. Treatment goals include:

• Helping your body use its remaining lymph pathways
• Reducing swelling
• Softening or reducing scar-like tissue
• Preventing fluid from building up again
• Lowering the risk of infection
• Helping your limb return to a more comfortable size

What Is Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)?

MLD is a light, rhythmic technique that guides lymph fluid toward healthier areas of the body so it can drain more easily. Many patients describe it as soothing, and it often helps limbs feel lighter and more comfortable.

Other Conditions We Treat With MLD

MLD can also help with:

• Lipedema
• Combined lymphedema, lipedema, or venous edema
• Swelling after injuries
• Swelling after surgery
• Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis

Accessing Our Lymphedema Services

Our lymphedema therapy is provided by the Occupational Therapy Department at Compass Memorial Healthcare. Most insurance plans require a provider’s order to start OT services.

If you’d like to learn more or schedule an appointment, please reach out to us, our contact details are listed in the information section above. For questions about insurance coverage, we encourage you to contact your insurance provider directly.