Lymphoedema Therapy

Lymphoedema

Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) & Lymph Drainage

Stage 0

You may start to notice a heavy feeling in the affected area but not see any physical changes.

Stage 3

Pitting subsides, skin can change and have a sponge like appearance. The swelling no longer changes from morning to evening. The problem happens because the swelling is no longer fluid, but fibrotic and can form scar tissue.

Stage 1

The limb becomes enlarged/swollen.

Swelling improves at night and worsens during the day. Elevating the leg helps temporarily. Pushing the area slightly leaves an indentation. This is known as pitting edema and results from fluid collection.

Stage 4

The skin is dry and flaky and can look like scales. Fluid-filled blisters may form, which can increase the chance of infection. The swollen, heavy limb may become difficult to move, affecting normal function and daily activities.

Congestive Decongestive Therapy (CDT)

The treatment for Lymphoedema, Lipoedema is undergoing Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT). There are two phases, the first being (Phase I), which aims to reduce the fluid in the affected area and to improve the condition of the skin. The second phase (Phase II) is the maintenance, which helps the patient learn to control and manage their own lymphoedema.

In addition, we have Lymph Press Pneumatic Compression Pumps, Hivamat 200 Deep Oscillation and Whole Body Novothor Photobiomodulation Therapy as additional tools to help reduce swelling and pain.

Weight Control/Maintenance - It is very important to maintain a healthy weight. These conditions can be exacerbated as fat cells compress the lymphatics further, reducing and impeding lymphatic flow. A good weight loss/nutritional plan will help before, during and after your intensive treatment.

Compression Garments - At the end of the intensive phase, you will be measured for custom or standard fit compression garments. During the maintenance, self-management phase you should aim to wear your garments daily. Any SLD exercises should be done whilst wearing your compression. It is recommended your garments be replaced every 4-6 months.

Phase I - Decongestive

The first step is to reduce the swelling as much as possible and improve your limb shape and skin condition. This phase usually lasts about 2-4 weeks

We provide:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

Compression therapy with multi-layer bandaging.

Skin care and an exercise regime.

Phase II - Maintenance

This phase of therapy aims to maintain the results achieved in the decongestive phase. It is pivotal the patient continues their own self management of their lymphoedema. Any delays could result in more swelling again.

Self management is an integral part of Phase II, which means both a complete understanding of your lymphoedema and the best ways to manage it.