Lymphoedema Therapy

How Can We Help?

What is Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is excess swelling of one or more parts of the body due to damage to the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is the drainage system in our body, and lymph vessels convey excess fluid collected from all over the body back into the blood circulation. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic system, and contain white blood cells that help filter out foreign material such as bacteria, so help us fight infections and maintain immunity.

How is Lymphoedema Treated?

The main types of treatment are specific, specialised massage, compression and exercises.  Not all masseurs are trained in the specialised techniques required for effective reduction in the swelling characterised by Lymphoedema.  Treatment must be very gentle and done in a systematic fashion to clear the fluid to the lymph nodes.  The excess protein-rich fluid sits in the tissues just under our skin and by massage and compression, the extra fluid in the affected area is assisted to return to the lymphatic system, therefore reducing swelling and discomfort.

Our Lymphoedema Therapist

Michelle Hamblin is our clinic’s Lymphoedema Therapist.  She is available for appointments on alternate Wednesdays and Thursdays and specialises in assessment, lymphatic massage and self-management education for those living with or at risk of lymphoedema. Michelle is also able to provide bio-impedance spectroscopy readings to assess unilateral limb swelling, limb measurements, fitting and supply of compression garments.