Flint and Sanden Expand Expertise with Lymphedema Certification

Flint and Sanden Expand Expertise with Lymphedema Certification

Du Quoin, Illinois – June 20, 2024 – Marshall Browning Hospital and Marshall Browning Rehab are proud to announce that Jerica Flint, PTA, CLT, and Jennifer Sanden, PTA, CLT, successfully completed the certification program with the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. They spent 9 days of intense training and successfully passed the competency and proficiency in the techniques of complete decongestive therapy, including manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging, and the pathophysiology of the lymphatic system. Both Flint and Sanden join Heather Richelman, PT, CLT, Marshall Browning Rehab Director, a certified lymphedema therapist, to provide lymphedema services at Marshall Browning Rehab.

Lymphedema is a chronic condition in which excess fluid collects in tissues, causing severe and debilitating swelling. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system. It moves fluid through the body, picking up waste, bacteria, and viruses. Lymph nodes filter out the waste and flush it from the body. When something goes wrong, the fluid backs up in the tissue, and sometimes, vessels are blocked. Lymphedema often causes swelling, restricted range of motion, and pain or discomfort. Swelling can occur in various areas of the body, including the arm or leg, chest wall, neck, abdomen, and genitals. Cancer treatment survivors, including those of melanoma, breast cancer, prostate, and ovarian cancer, are susceptible to developing lymphedema. Lymphedema can also be a complication of physical injury as trauma can disrupt the efficiency of the lymphatic system.

“I am very proud to have Jennifer and Jerica join the lymphedema treatment team here at Marshall Browning Rehab,” said Heather Richelman. “Becoming lymphedema-certified is a great accomplishment. As a team, we will be able to better meet the needs of our patients who suffer from chronic swelling. We look forward to expanding the scope of our practice here at Marshall Browning Hospital Rehab and being available to provide care to our patients under the care of Dr. Isaac Lowe, our certified wound care physician.”

Jerica is a physical therapist assistant who lives in Du Quoin. She joined the Marshall Browning Rehab team in August 2021. Jennifer is a physical therapist assistant who lives in Sparta. She joined the rehab team in November 2011.

If you’re experiencing swelling, restricted range of motion, and pain, they can help. Ask your doctor for a referral for lymphedema therapy. For more information on lymphedema services at Marshall Browning Rehab, call 618.542.1099.