LYMPHOEDEMA SERVICES
What is lymphoedema?
At Positive Pathways OT, our Occupational Therapist, Hannah, is an accredited lymphedema practitioner trained in the Casley Smith Method for Complex Physical Therapy (CPT). CPT is the recommended treatment for lymphedema and is a non-invasive model of management.
Treatment for lymphoedema, although not a cure, helps control the symptoms of swelling, skin changes and functional impairment. Lymphoedema treatment is ongoing in order to maintain the gains in the affected area in the best possible way. Although it takes time and effort, lymphoedema treatment can be used to effectively control your lymphoedema and maintain a good quality of life.
The guiding principles of Complex Physical Therapy (CPT)
Specialised Massage Techniques
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a technique used to stimulate lymphatic fluid flow and reduce swelling. The massage techniques guide lymph fluid to functioning lymphatic territories and create collateral drainage pathways when those territories are no longer functional due to lymphedema or cancer treatments. Self-massage techniques are also taught as part of the intervention to help maintain reductions, support lymphatic drainage and manage swelling between sessions.
Compression Bandages and Garments
Compression therapy is used to assist with the removal of fluid out of the affected limb, minimise further build-up and maintain the volume of the affected limb. Compression bandaging is the gold standard to achieve a rapid reduction in the limb volume in the first stage of therapy. Occasionally some patients may need ongoing or episodic bandaging, this is dependent on the individual's requirements. Compression garments are a necessary component of lymphoedema management and it is important to ensure that the garments are prescribed by a trained therapist who will ensure that they are specific to the needs of each individual and will be functional in their daily life and roles.
Skin Care
Onset or worsening of lymphoedema may be provoked by an infection which makes education in healthy skin condition management and injury avoidance essential for people with or at risk for lymphoedema. Essential infection preventative education for clients in a lymphoedema treatment program is provided to reduce the risk of infection, to reduce oedema related skin changes and to maintain good skin condition.
Decongestive Exercises
Exercise is an integral part of lymphedema prevention and treatment. In the early stages of treatment specific exercises are taught which, in addition to compression bandages/garments, manual lymphatic drainage and infection prevention guidance, help to reduce swelling in the affected area. In the long-term, exercise for muscle strengthening, maintaining flexibility, general health and recreation are encouraged as part of the lymphedema reduction maintenance program.