Full CDT Certification - Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy

1. Full CDT Certification - Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy COURSE OBJECTIVES Each student will be trained in the four components of Complete Decongestive Therapy. Upon completion of the class, the therapist will be able to differentiate between a variety of peripheral edemas as well as understand the applications, medical indications, and contraindications of MLD and CDT. Additionally, the therapist will be able to establish a CDT treatment plan for individuals with primary or secondary lymphedema and perform the indicated treatment. CLASS TOPICS ● anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of the lymphatic system ● basic techniques and sequences of Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder technique) ● indications and contraindications of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) ● differential diagnosis ● treatment of primary and secondary lymphedema ● lymphedema bandaging techniques for upper and lower extremities ● remedial lymphedema exercises ● hygienic skin and nail care for lymphedema ● measuring and fitting techniques for lymphedema support garments ● patient evaluation and weekly measurement (circumference and volume) ● home maintenance and self-treatment for lymphedema ● medical billing and reimbursement for clinical lymphedema management

2. INCLUDED MATERIALS & SERVICES ● comprehensive course and online reference guides ● "Lymphedema Management" textbook co-authored by Steve Norton ● access to online educational video set ● upper and lower extremity bandage kits ● informational portfolio detailing current treatment product ● Jobst Elvarex compression garment certification ● lifetime listing in the Norton School therapist referral database ● FREE lifetime access to LymphedemaJobs.com, the only dedicated career resource for the lymphedema therapy field CLASSROOM ENVIRONMENT Much of the praise received on Norton School certification course evaluations focuses on the classroom's unique educational climate. Students report an uplifting, enjoyable, and engaging environment that is highly conducive to learning. Our instructors strive to create an atmosphere in which every student feels capable of interacting with the class through lively discussion. The student body's eclectic mix of licensed professionals contributes a multilayered perspective to classroom discussions, enriching appreciation for the critical role this unique form of therapy plays throughout the modern healthcare system. A balanced blend of didactic and practical work creates daily lessons that captivate and maintain student attention. Because manual techniques are regularly performed and received by all participants, the Norton School program is not only learned conceptually but is experienced and absorbed physically as well. Patient visitation, evaluation, and inspection, along with observation of treatment, provide exceptional insight into the precise delivery of patient care. It is this seamless integration of theoretical and practical components, while in a relaxed and intimate setting, that makes the course an invaluable and unforgettable experience for Norton School alumni. COMPLETE DECONGESTIVE THERAPY (CDT) Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the most successful treatment for chronic extremity lymphedema. Post mastectomy lymphedema and other related conditions respond extremely well to this gentle, non-invasive, and highly effective therapy. CDT is sometimes referred to as Complete/Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP). CDT consists of the following four steps: 1. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) MLD is a very gentle manual treatment that improves the function of the lymphatic system throughout the body. In the 1930s the techniques of MLD were first introduced by Dr. Emil Vodder, PhD, MT from Denmark. MLD is becoming widely recognized in the United States as a treatment for many pathologies including post surgical swelling, post

3. traumatic edema (e.g., sports injuries), migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia. MLD is further used to promote general relaxation and for cleansing (detoxification) of the skin and superficial fascia. In lymphedema therapy MLD is used to reroute the lymph flow around blocked areas into healthy lymph vessels, which drain into the venous circulation. 2. Compression Therapy Compression therapy, through the use of multilayered bandages, increases tissue pressure and is applied between treatments to prevent the re-accumulation of evacuated edema fluid. Compression therapy also increases the efficiency of the muscle and joint pumps and is used until the limb is sufficiently decongested to be fitted for compression garments. 3. Exercises Remedial exercises, with the bandages in place, are performed to activate the muscle and joint pumps of the affected extremity. This results in an increase in lymphokinetic activity and, over time, in further reduction of the swollen limb. 4. Skin Care Skin care and general hygiene are essential for eliminating bacterial and fungal growth, either of which can cause repeated attacks of cellulitis or erysipelas. Because infections are very common complications of lymphedema, meticulous skin and nail care are integral elements of CDT. PREREQUISITES The following professions are accepted for training: PTs, PTAs, OTs, COTAs, SLPs, RNs, LPNs/LVNs, MDs, DOs, ATCs, DCs, and MTs* *Massage therapists must show proof of completion of a minimum 500 hours training program or be certified through the NCBTMB. CLASS TIMES A total of 135 hours of instruction is provided in the Full CDT Certification Course comprised of 90 hours of classroom instruction and 45 hours of home study. Class hours are 8:00am–7:00pm.

4. CERTIFICATE & CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs) Participants will receive, upon successful completion (have passed the written and practical final exams), a certificate of completion confirming their status as a Lymphedema Therapist certified in Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder Technique)/Complete Decongestive Therapy. CEUs are available for Physical Therapists through the Florida Physical Therapy Association (FPTA), for Occupational Therapists through the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) (AOTA CEUs/Contact Hours (135); AOTA Classification Codes: Category 2, Domain of OT), and for Massage Therapists through the NCBTMB. For questions about receiving CEUs please call us toll-free at (866) 808-2249. TUITION The tuition for the Full CDT Certification Course is $3,300. A deposit of $900 is required at the time of registration and will hold a spot in the course until the remaining balance is received no later than two (2) weeks prior to the first day of class. Website: https://www.nortonschool.com/cdt-lymphedema-certification-course.html