About Lymphoedema
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is the accumulation of excessive amounts of fluid in the tissues resulting in persistent swelling in one or more regions of the body.
A failure of the lymphatic system occurs, which means the amount of fluid needing to be drained by the body exceeds the systems capacity.
Lipedema is a different condition, where the body deposits subcutaneous adipose tissue in certain areas of the body, usually in the legs but sometimes in the arms.
What Causes Lymphoedema?
There are two types of lymphoedema- primary and secondary. Primary lymphoedema occurs due to a congenital or hereditary defect within the lymphatic system that effects the formation of the lymphatic vessels. This can show up at any time during life. Secondary lymphoedema occurs due to an acquired cause that damages the lymphatic system. The most common cause is cancer and associated treatments, but it can also be due to other causes.
Early warning signs and symptoms can include:
- Feelings of heaviness, aching, or stiffness in a limb- even if intermittent
- Gradual onset of swelling- this may resolve with elevation initially
- Reduced range of motion in your arm or leg
- Noticing that your clothes don’t fit properly (e.g., one sleeve is tighter than the other)
- Noticing that your rings, watch or bracelets don’t fit anymore
- Skin changes
Lymphoedema Management
Whole Body Osteopathy can help with the management of lymphoedema, lipedema, and other causes of chronic oedema. Services include:
- Comprehensive assessment
- Hands-on treatment (Manual Lymphatic Drainage & osteopathic techniques)
- Low Level Laser Therapy
- Exercise prescription & education
- Compression garment measurement & prescription
- Compression bandaging
- Self-management support
Our Approach to Lymphoedema
Dr Christine Thompson is an accredited lymphoedema practitioner with the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA), having completed her lymphoedema training through Macquarie University’s ALERT program.
As an osteopath, Christine takes a whole body approach to your lymphoedema treatment and management. Each consultation is individualised to your specific needs, using the best evidence based research available.