Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM): Swelling Management for the Upper and Lower Extremities

The MEM method is a comprehensive treatment approach that applies the principles of lymphatic anatomy and physiology to rehabilitation care across the lifespan: from preterm infants to end of life care, and across abilities: from high-level athletes to those with movement impairments. It is also among the few courses that is applicable to a variety of providers OT, OTA, PT, PTA and Athletic Trainers. This course brings training that should be standard of care to all rehab professionals who treat patients who experience swelling. MEM Associates is working to create a paradigm shift in swelling management.

Following injury, orthopedic surgery, or trauma, patients often develop long-standing edema. The consequences of this complication include: persistent pain, delayed wound healing, and the development of fibrotic tissue that can block motion and impact overall return to function for the patient. Therapists often struggle with sub-acute edema management, despite their best efforts with interventions such as rest, ice, compression and elevation. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in fluid homeostasis, yet this role has been greatly overlooked. Persistent edema is often the result of an overloaded lymphatic system. Knowing how to activate the lymphatic system to quickly reduce swelling can make all the difference to patients for pain reduction, increasing ROM, and return to function.

The purpose of this course is to teach the therapist the lymphatic decongestion method of Manual Edema Mobilization (MEM). MEM is a specific treatment method with evidence-based rationale designed to reduce sub-acute and chronic edema. Lecture and hands-on labs will be used to learn the tenets and five key components required to apply the method. Problem-solving through case study presentations will help prepare participants to apply MEM to manage sub-acute and chronic edema, as seen in their specific patient populations as soon as they return to practice on Monday. This method is not applicable for primary lymphedema or post cancer (secondary) lymphedema treatment. This two-day course covers upper extremity and lower extremity, including specific hand, finger, foot and toe management, and appropriate compression application.