What is Lymphoedema and how is it different to normal swelling?
Lymphoedema is an accumulation of protein rich fluid that is normally drained by the lymphatic system. It occurs when the lymphatic system is blocked or injured. It is different from inflammation (oedema) which is when an excess of fluid (for example, after a sprained ankle) can’t be efficiently removed. In plain terms, if you injure yourself and get swelling this is just an excess of fluid, whereas lymphoedema occurs when your lymphatic system is actually injured.
How can physio help?
Lymphoedema trained therapists (which may be physios, nurses, doctors or other health professionals) can assist the swelling and fluid to help determine if the fluid is lymphoedema and to assist with reducing the size.
Treatment
Treatment may consist of exercise, compression therapy and lymphatic drainage. You may also be advised to use pumps which can further assist with fluid level reduction.
How to Book
Book an initial appointment with Kate by going online or call 9580 1985 and state that you are wanting an appointment for lymphoedema.