Lymphoedema Management

Providing relief through proper Lymphoedema Management plans.

Lymphoedema (lymphedema) is characterised by swelling of certain parts of the body, and is caused by problems with the lymphatic system. Any part of the body can be affected by lymphoedema, but it tends to target the arms and legs. It is a painful and debilitating condition resulting from a build-up of fluid that would normally be drained by the lymphatic system.

Normally, fluid and proteins leak into the body tissues regularly from the blood. The lymphatic system is a network of tubes throughout the body that drains this fluid (called lymph) from tissues and empties it back into the bloodstream. When this system is not working properly, Lymphoedema can occur. Relief is possible with a proper Lymphoedema Management plan.

Lipoedema - Lipoedema occurs because of the way that fat (adipose tissue) is distributed under your skin. Fat is distributed unevenly in your arms, legs and buttocks instead of in a regular pattern. Commonly there is a fatty area on the inside of the knees and the outside of the hips. 

Manual Lymphatic Drainage massage can support client is this condition.

Symptoms: 

• Tender skin and soft tissue in the affected areas that are sensitive to pressure and walking.
• The skin and soft tissue in the affected area initially have a fluffy or slightly rubbery feel. As the disease progresses the skin becomes harder and feels nodular like beans in a bean bag or rubber super balls. 
• As the disorder advances, the skin loses elasticity, and the skin surface becomes uneven, with protruding hills and fibrous valleys developing.
• Decreased skin temperature or a relative coolness of the skin.
• Leg heaviness and fatigue, which can lead to overall fatigue – Lipoedema pain in legs.
• Lipoedema can be extremely painful. The affected areas can be tender and there is a general tendency to bruise easily. Over time, lipoedema can result in fluid retention in the affected parts, resulting in a medical condition called Lipolymphoedema.