Lymphoedema Management + Complex Lymphoedema Therapy
Who can benefit from Lymphoedema management or Complex Lymphoedema Therapy?
– Anyone who has sustained damage to the lymphatic system, whether through trauma, surgery, radiation therapy or Lymph node dissection/removal.
– If you are recovering from cancer treatment which involved your lymph nodes or you have had lymph nodes removed you are at risk of developing Lymphoedema and you should be assessed and monitored.
– Examples of this include -arm, chest or breast swelling after breast cancer treatment
– Leg, abdominal or genital swelling following gynaecological or prostate cancers.
– Facial swelling following treatment of head or neck cancer.
– CDT can also assist Lipoedema, Venous oedema, Dependent oedema, Obesity related oedema.
How can we Help you if you have Lymphoedema?
East Gosford Physio can offer full management of Lymphoedema, or those at risk of developing lymphoedema, using Complex Lymphoedema Therapy (CLT).
Lindy Radmann leads our Lymphoedema Physiotherapy team who offer this specialised service.
This is a comprehensive approach to treatment of Lymphoedema and may include the following components:
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage or MLD which is a form of massage specific to the treatment of the lymphatic system. It aims to direct the flow of lymphatic fluid from areas of congestion, into regions of the body where there are healthy nodes, thus facilitating clearance and decreasing swelling.
- Compression is an integral tool in the management of Lymphoedema and is at times necessary to decrease swelling and maintain the reduction. Thorough assessment of each client will determine which form of compression is best suited to their individual situation, and whether it is a permanent or temporary support in the management of their Lymphoedema. Compression may include a bandaging phase followed by the fitting of a compression garment or wrap.
- Exercise and movement are another valuable tool in reducing risk factors and managing Lymphoedema. Clients are assessed and equipped with information regarding necessary and appropriate exercises. This exercise can be monitored by our physios and Exercise Physiologists to ensure the exercises are safe and effective. We also offer group exercise classes, like Keep Moving. Your physio will advise if this is appropriate for you.
- Skin Care is a very important part of Lymphoedema management, as the build-up of excess fluid increases the risk of infections. This component of CDT aims at teaching clients how to best protect the skin and decrease risk of infection and subsequent increases in swelling.
- Education and follow up which may include replacing compression garments, periodic check-ups to ensure early intervention if any issues arise, ongoing measurements and follow up treatment, support and guidance.
In addition to comprehensive assessment, treatment and ongoing management of lymphoedema related issues, we bring years of Physiotherapy experience to the management of scar tissue, joint stiffness, pain or deconditioning following radiation, surgery or chemotherapy.
Strong Survivor works in the 3 phases of your journey
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