Lymphoedema Therapy

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that can be successfully managed with ongoing combined de-congestive therapy (CDT). This treatment combines compression therapy, lymph drainage therapy (massage), exercise and therapeutic skin care. If you are experiencing sensations of tightness, fullness, discomfort or tingling or your rings/shoes are feeling tighter, these may be early signs of lymphoedema.

A case of secondary lymphoedema might typically occur after surgery, lymph node dissection and radiation therapy for breast cancer. Damage to lymph vessels and the loss of lymph nodes results in a reduced transport capacity of the lymphatic system whereby fluid and proteins may not be removed properly and will start to accumulate in the tissues. As a result, swelling in the arm and chest may develop. Early detection and treatment are critical for heading off more severe symptoms.

As a therapist, my goal, is to assist you in reducing oedema and discomfort, to restore any loss in range of motion and improve function. Learning about your condition and how to manage it confidently will improve your quality of life.

My Practice

I work with people recovering from surgery and injury and people who have primary and secondary lymphoedema. My practice is also open to people interested in improving or maintaining their general health and well being.

My Services

The services I offer in my lymphoedema treatment sessions are
*Bio-impedance spectroscopy analysis for assisting in the clinical assessment of unilateral lymphoedema of the arm and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment. This procedure involves passing a low strength electrical current through the body and measuring the impedance to the flow of this current. The amount of resistance correlates with the amount of extracellular fluid that is present in the extremity and can be assessed against a normal range and the patient's own previous measurements. *Circumferential measurement graphs documenting sequential changes in limb volumes and oedema percentages using oedema calculating software. * Fitting of custom made compression garments. *Bandaging with the newest methods and materials (less bulk) that allow for greater mobility and ease during exercise. * Remedial massage to compliment de-congestive exercises, restore range of motion and to address scar adhesion and webbing. * MLD (manual lymph drainage). * Education in self-care with a holistic approach; a de-congestive exercise regime, diaphragmatic breathing instruction based on yoga techniques, skin care and self massage with a simple-to-follow routine.