Helene Schrantz

Helene has lymphedema, a build-up of fluid in soft body tissues when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. Fluid built up in Helene’s legs over four years, limiting her ability to walk. 

“It got to the point where I couldn’t climb stairs,” Helene says. “I was so worried I would lose the use of my legs.”

Chronic swelling in both legs also made it hard for Helene to get dressed, get in and out of a car, and do household tasks like cooking, laundry, cleaning.

Helene started with physical therapy at a different clinic, but “it was too hard on my body,” Helene says. (The swelling from lymphedema can be painful.) Occupational therapy at that other clinic helped, but she was getting limited results because that therapist “only wrapped my legs” during sessions, and had Helene wear compression stockings between appointments.

Then Helene discovered NH+C’s Rehab Services, and Occupational Therapist Samantha Klassen, MOTR/L, CLT, LSVT BIG® Certified, CFPS. Samantha is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist.

“Right away, Samantha explained so much to me about lymph nodes – where they are, how to massage them to move and drain the fluid,” she says. “It made a difference immediately.” 

Samantha used a combination of massage, compression, and exercise – gentle movements that reduce fluid buildup and increase flexibility and strength in Helene’s legs. “It’s the right level of what I can do,” Helene says. “I can follow through on the exercises Samantha gives me. She doesn’t push too hard.”

Samantha also arranged for a lymphedema pump for Helene to use at home: Fabric cuffs wrap around her legs, then air is pumped into the cuffs to massage the legs up and down, from waist to toes, to shift and drain the lymph fluid. 

Twice-weekly appointments with Samantha and daily treatment with the pump at home made a big improvement: Helene has lost over 25 pounds of fluid in her legs – over 18 inches in the circumference of her lower legs. 

“I can walk around quite a bit better now,” Helene smiles. She sees Samantha once a month to maintain that success.

“Samantha is the most knowledgeable and best therapist I’ve ever had,” Helene says. “Her skills and knowledge are amazing. She’s believes in going to any length she can to help people.”

At Rehabilitation Services, therapy is tailored to the individual: “What you can do now, and what your goals are,” Helene says. “My goal is to do as much around the house as I can, and continue to improve my life. Samantha is always coming up with an idea that might help.”

“Samantha turned my life around. I’m so happy I found her.”

Helene’s advice to others with a chronic health condition: “You have to take charge of your life and do what you can. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.”