Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

How should you address a reddish-brown discoloration and induration in a post-surgical patient?

1. Ignore the area during treatment

2. Treat with deep tissue friction to soften the induration

3. Treat with gentle MLD and stretching to soften the induration

4. Apply heat and E-stim treatment

The correct answer is: Treat with gentle MLD and stretching to soften the induration

The appropriate way to address a reddish-brown discoloration and induration in a post-surgical patient is through gentle Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and stretching to soften the induration. This approach is beneficial because it promotes lymphatic circulation, which helps in reducing swelling and softening the tissue. MLD is specifically designed to assist in the removal of excess interstitial fluid and waste, thereby addressing issues related to post-surgical recovery. Gentle techniques are important in such cases, as deep tissue manipulation could exacerbate inflammation or cause additional trauma to sensitive or healing tissue. Stretching in conjunction with MLD can improve flexibility and promote better movement in the affected area, which is crucial for the overall rehabilitation process. Considering the context of post-surgical care, treating the area with excessive techniques such as deep tissue friction might lead to additional pain or complications, while methods like heat and electro-stimulation may not directly address the lymphatic issues caused by the post-surgical state. Thus, a combination of gentle MLD and stretching not only aids in recovery but also aligns with best practices for managing lymphatic health.