LYMPHOEDEMA
WHAT IS LYMPHOEDEMA?
Lymphoedema is a chronic (long-term) condition that causes swelling in the body's tissues.
It can occur in any part of the body, but is most common in the legs and arms.
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The lymphatic system plays a vital part in removal of excess fluid, and in fighting infection; when there is damage or faults within the lymphatic system fluid is not removed effectively, causing swelling to build up.
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Lymphoedema is classified as either primary or secondary.
PRIMARY LYMPHOEDEMA
Primary Lymphoedema is caused by faulty genes that impact the development of the lymphatic system. It can develop at any age but is usually noticed in childhood, adolescent or early adulthood.
SECONDARY LYMPHOEDEMA
Secondary Lymphoedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system, or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid. It is often developed as a result of cancer treatment, injury or infection of a limb.
TREATING LYMPHOEDEMA
There is no cure for Lymphoedema, but it is possible to manage the symptoms using techniques to minimise fluid build up, and stimulate fluid drainage through the lymphatic system.
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Jenny has been trained by the Lymphoedema Training Academy in Lymphoedema Rehabilitation, which includes assessment, support for diagnosis and treatment of Lymphoedema, whether this be primary or secondary.
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Treatment options include the following:
MANUAL LYMPHATIC
DRAINAGE
Jenny is trained in Fluoroscopy Guided Manual Lymphatic Drainage (FG-MLD), which uses the 'Fill & Flush' technique to move lymph fluid and reduce swelling. Specialised hand movements and pressure are used to encourage the fluid to drain. An appointment of FG-MLD usually lasts up to 1 hour.
MULTICOMPONENT
BANDAGING
Multicomponent bandaging works through compression, aiming to help fluid drain and not build back up. It is also beneficial for returning limb shape back to as normal as possible. Bandaging is applied in layers up the affected limb(s). For intensive treatment, bandaging is done on a daily basis, and combined with FG-MLD.
COMPRESSION
GARMENTS
Compression garments help to prevent lymphoedema from worsening. They can be off-the-shelf or made to measure, depending on your needs, and come in a variety of designs, colours, thicknesses, pressures and knit types. These should be worn following an intensive course of treatment to maintain the reduction in swelling.
North East Scar Therapy regularly provides MLD as a treatment for managing Lymphoedema, and swelling pos-operatively. To discuss your needs further, please use the contact option below. All new clients will require an initial assessment for lymphoedema treatment.
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Whilst Jenny is trained in Multicomponent Bandaging and measuring for Compression Garments, North East Scar Therapy does not currently provide these treatments. Should this be something you wish to enquire about, please use the contact form below.
All mobile appointments are inclusive of travel up to 5 miles from TS20. Any additional travel will incur a fee of £25 per hour and 50p per mile.
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