Lymphoedema is swelling that develops because of a build-up of fluid in the body’s tissues when the lymphatic system isn’t working properly. It can occur in any part of the body, but is most likely to affect an arm or a leg.

It’s a chronic swelling, condition that never goes away because the causes can’t be reversed. However, it can be reduced in most people, and the swelling can often be kept to a minimum, particularly when it’s diagnosed early.

Specialist Lymphoedema Practitioner can assess and treat lymphoedema. They can also teach you how to manage it yourself.

Primary Lymphoedema usually determined from birth and arises due to some failure of the lymphatic system itself – usually with the underdevelopment of the lymphatic system. It may develop without any obvious cause at different stages in life

Secondary lymphoedema is brought on as a result of another condition or disease which causes permanent damage to the lymphatic system. This often occurs from cancer treatments (lymph node removal and/or radiation), cancer itself, trauma, injury or infection. Reduced mobility or Paralysis, Cardio-vascular issues or Renal and Hepatic system dysfunction could be also contributing to fluid accumulation leading to lymphoedema

What is Lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a chronic, hereditary and genetic disorder of the adipose tissue (or body fat) which can be both disfiguring and painful.

It predominantly affects women (although men can also suffer) from the age of puberty and beyond. Sufferers may have a normal slim (upper) body shape but a much larger disproportionate lower body below the waist without changes made to diet or exercise regime. In some cases, upper arms are affected too.

As Lipoedema progresses, additional, expanding fat cells interfere with the pathways of lymphatic vessels and sufferers can develop secondary Lymphoedema and it then becomes known as Lipo-Lymphoedema.

The effects of Lipoedema on the patient can also cause great psychological distress for the sufferer. It is very important for people with lipoedema to eat a healthy diet and follow a programme of low impact exercises such as swimming, walking or cycling.

Unfortunately, there’s no cure for lipoedema, but treatment and management is available, and research is ongoing.

Patients very often decide to go for liposuction procedure what was shown effective but detailed consultation with a surgeon must be completed for individualised plan, expectation and post operative management plan

• Conventional Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT).
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage

• Deep Oscillation Device
• Negative Pressure Vacuum device

• Self-management advices
• Vacuum or Negative pressure

1.

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)

Specialised massages carried out by a specialist therapist – to move fluid from the swollen areas into working lymph nodes, where it can be drained.

2.

Compression bandages and garments

Special bandages or garments (such as sleeves, gloves, stockings or tights) fitted over any affected limbs. These will support the affected muscles during exercise and encourage them to move fluid out of the affected limb.

You will be taught how to correctly apply your own bandages and compression garments, so you can continue to use them during the maintenance period.

Close-fitting elastic sleeves or stockings can compress the arm or leg to encourage lymph fluid drainage. These garments often require a prescription to ensure that the proper amount of compression is used. You may need to be measured by a professional to ensure proper fit.

3.

Skin care

Taking good care of your skin is important, because it will reduce your risk of developing possible complications such as infection, Cellulites. It is important to keep your skin and tissue in healthy and good texture