What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is an accumulation of protein rich “lymph” fluid in the tissues under the skin, causing swelling in an arm, leg, neck or any area of the body.
What causes Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema usually occurs as a result of surgical dissection of lymph nodes for breast, melanoma, prostate or head/neck cancers. Other causes can include radiation therapy, trauma, infections, morbid obesity and venous insufficiency.
How is Lymphoedema treated?
Our Certified Lymphoedema Therapists (CLTs) teach patients how to manage their condition with the following:
- Gentle Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) techniques,
- Skin care, Compression bandaging,
- Therapeutic exercises,
- Proper fitting of compression garments.
Breast Cancer and Lymphoedema
Breast cancer related lymphoedema, which can cause significant swelling of the involved arm, forearm, and hand, breast, and even the trunk, is mostly caused by damage and trauma to the body’s lymphatic system during treatment for cancer and can include limited movement, joint pain, and difficulty performing overhead activities.
Therapists that have had the additional certification for Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP) are experts in restoring motion and mobility, and not only treat the effects of lymphoedema, but also reduce the risk of reoccurrence.
