Lymphoedema management

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in the tissues of the body. You may be born with primary lymphoedema (an insufficient lymphatic system) or it may start later in life due to damage to the lymphatic system either through surgery, radiotherapy, treatment for cancer or injury.

There is currently no cure, but, but with time and treatment it can be managed to ensure quality of life. Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is currently the most effective conservative treatment available. It includes four management approaches.

• Skin care
• Exercise
• Compression
• Lymphatic drainage (manual or simple)

Our service supports and improves patient care and treatment for those recovering from:

• Breast surgery
• The effects of cancer treatment
• Other surgery affecting and damaging the lymphatic system and caused lymphoedema
• Orthopaedic surgery caused swelling and bruising
• Sports injury resulting in swelling

Interventions available at Cromwell Hospital for the management of lymphoedema include:

• General education about the condition
• Advise on skin care
• Exercise
• Manual or simple lymphatic drainage
• Compression – garment fitting and bandaging
• Connective tissue mobilization
• Kinesiotaping
• Deep oscillation
• Lymphassist for sequential compression
• Low level laser

The therapy team continue to improve their skills and knowledge through continual professional development in order to provide patients with the latest treatment options as supported by current evidence. The lymphoedema therapist complies with regulation for review every two years.

Opening times

Our lymphoedema service is available from 09:00 to 16:00 on weekdays.