{"id":1004,"date":"2026-07-03T10:01:00","date_gmt":"2026-07-03T14:01:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nortonschool.com\/blog\/?p=1004"},"modified":"2026-06-30T12:29:15","modified_gmt":"2026-06-30T16:29:15","slug":"phlebolymphedema-the-overlooked-condition-every-therapist-should-understand","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nortonschool.com\/blog\/phlebolymphedema-the-overlooked-condition-every-therapist-should-understand\/","title":{"rendered":"Phlebolymphedema: The Overlooked Condition Every Therapist Should Understand"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When a patient presents with chronic lower-extremity swelling, many healthcare providers immediately think of either venous insufficiency or lymphedema. However, a growing number of patients are actually experiencing a combination of both conditions\u2014a disorder known as phlebolymphedema<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite its prevalence, phlebolymphedema remains underdiagnosed and frequently misunderstood. Many patients spend years treating venous disease alone while underlying lymphatic dysfunction continues to worsen. Others are referred for lymphedema therapy without recognition of the venous component driving their swelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLTs), vascular specialists, wound care clinicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals, understanding phlebolymphedema is becoming increasingly important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As rates of obesity, chronic venous disease, and lower-extremity edema continue to rise, therapists who can accurately identify and treat phlebolymphedema are uniquely positioned to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What Is Phlebolymphedema?<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Phlebolymphedema is a condition that occurs when chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) overwhelms and eventually damages the lymphatic system.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"A<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

The term combines:<\/p>\n\n\n\n