Covenant Health Therapist Receives Specialized Lymphedema Certification

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Mikayla Alissandrello, MOT, OTR/L, CLT, occupational therapist with Covenant Health Therapy Center – West Knoxville recently received lymphedema therapy certification through KLOSE training.

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot move fluid from an area of the body, resulting in swelling. Caused by various factors, it most commonly affects patients who have had treatment or surgery for cancer.

Mikayla Alissandrello standing in hallway smiling. The occupatioanl therapist recently received lymphedema therapy certification.
Mikayla Alissandrello, MOT, OTR/L, CLT

About Lymphedema Therapy Training

The lymphedema therapy certification course focus on a safe, effective and non-invasive approach called Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). Therapists learn manual lymph drainage, compression bandaging, skin care, and patient-appropriate exercises.

How Lymphedema Treatment Benefits Patients

It can be very difficult for a person with lymphedema to perform their everyday tasks.

By providing this treatment to patients in my community, I’m able to help them with chronic swelling,” Alissandrello said. “This will improve their mobility and capacity to do their daily activities, as well as improve body image and self-esteem. It can ultimately improve their quality of life .”

“In our community, people with lymphedema typically have to wait extended periods of time to initiate treatment because of a lack of providers with specialty training,” explained Mark Conley, MSPT, CHT, OCS, Cert. MDT, manager of Covenant Health Therapy Center – West Knoxville. “A clinician with Mikayla’s skill set who has earned certification allows us to expedite application of the decongestive therapy that our patients so badly need. 

“Mikayla has pursued lymphedema therapy certification with passion. I’m excited to see her grow as a clinician, and for the patients who can now receive this treatment from her,” he said.

“My favorite things about lymphedema therapy are opportunities to provide hands-on care and the long-term relationships I build with patients,” explained Alissandrello. “Lymphedema is a chronic condition. But I can be a resource to help patients continue doing the things that are most meaningful to them. I’m very thankful for the opportunity to get this certification and provide care for lymphedema patients!”

Covenant Health Foundation Supports Continuing Education

Funding support for Alissandrello’s certification came from Covenant Health Foundation, which receives and manages contributions that benefit programs and departments throughout the health system.

“Sponsors of our annual Particia Neal Golf Classic are dedicated to Covenant’s mission to improve the quality of life in our communities through better health,” said Chip Bryant, vice president of philanthropy. “Supporting advanced certifications for our therapists is an ideal way to put generosity into action. We’re pleased to impact the lives of many patients who will benefit from Mykala’s specialized lymphedema treatment skills.”

To learn more about the therapy services at Covenant Therapy Center – West Knoxville click here. To learn more about opportunities to provide philanthropic support for continuing education for healthcare providers like Alissandrello, click here.

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About the Author

Covenant Health

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Covenant Health is a not-for-profit, community-owned, healthcare enterprise committed to providing the right care at the right time and place. Covenant Health is the area’s largest employer and has more than 11,000 compassionate caregivers, expert clinicians, and dedicated employees and volunteers.