Lymphoedema Management Consultations

Lymphoedema is a chronic and permanent condition of swelling occurring in a limb or other region of the body, such as the trunk and breast. 

There are many causes of lymphoedema, but typically, upper limb lymphoedema is a result of treatment for breast cancer (secondary lymphoedema) - due to the removal of lymph nodes, as well chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This causes a disturbance of your lymphatic system’s fluid production and transport and results in an accumulation of fluid in the tissues in that part of the body.

Early warning signs and symptoms can include:

• Feelings of heaviness, aching, stiffness or swelling - even if intermittent 
• Seeing swelling while looking in the mirror 
• Noticing that your clothes don’t fit properly (e.g., one sleeve is tighter than the other) 
• Noticing that your rings, watch or bracelets don’t fit anymore.

While lymphoedema starts as a fluid problem, if not managed well, it can lead to a progressive accumulation of fibrotic or fatty tissue which is irreversible. The condition can cause significant physical, psychological, and social issues as well as a higher risk of developing a serious skin/ tissue infection called cellulitis, due to the skin’s inability to act as a barrier to infection.

Not all breast cancer patients will develop secondary lymphoedema, but it can occur many months or years after the initial treatment, it usually develops very slowly and often after long plane travel. The latest best practice includes early intervention and surveillance measures to limit the progression. By recording pre -treatment baseline measurements and regularly monitoring these, changes can be detected before symptoms occur. The earlier the management is started the better the outcome.

Our osteopath, Vanessa Malone, is an ALERT accredited lymphoedema therapist of the upper limb and breast. Assessment, treatment, and management of lymphoedema at Elemental Health is customized to individual presentations and can include:

• Assessment for prevention, early intervention, and surveillance
• Manual lymph drainage
• Advice on CLT, bandaging
• Limb measurements
• Garment prescription advice and ordering
• Exercise prescription and self-management advice
• Osteopathic treatment for scar tissue release, cording and range of movement issues of the joints, back and neck

Practitioner

Vanessa Malone

GPCCMPs are available with a GP referral