Lymphoedema treatment at Active Physiotherapy
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is the accumulation of excessive amounts of protein-rich fluid resulting in swelling of one or more regions of the body.
This is due to a mechanical failure of the lymphatic system and occurs when the demand for lymphatic drainage exceeds the capacity of the lymphatic circulation. The condition usually affects the limb(s) although it may also involve the trunk, breast, head and neck or genital area.
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and nodes throughout the body that transports fluid (lymph) from the body tissues back to the bloodstream. The functions of the lymphatic system are to maintain the volume and protein concentration of the extracellular fluid in the body and to assist the immune system in destroying pathogens and removing waste products from the tissues.
Conservative estimates suggest that at least 20% of survivors from breast, gynaecological, prostate cancer or melanoma will experience secondary lymphoedema.
The onset of lymphoedema may be at any time. It may occur within months of the damage or it may appear years later.
Secondary lymphoedema may also arise without a cancer diagnosis when one or more of the following conditions occur:
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Trauma and tissue damage
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Venous disease
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Immobility and dependency
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Factious – self harm
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Infection such as cellulitis
One of our experienced physiotherapists, Kristy Edwards, has recently completed and been certified in the Level 1 Lymphoedema Course run by Lymphoedema Educations Solutions. She has a special interest in this area, having gone through surgery and treatment for breast cancer herself in 2016.
Kristy will be treating patients with uncomplicated lymphoedema
Prior to making an appointment Kristy will need to discuss your individual requirements over the phone. Please contact her on 9803 8422 to discuss your needs.