Early diagnosis and early treatment are vital to the control of Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema can be painful. It is essentially incurable but its major manifestations, swelling, infection (such as cellulitis) and discomfort can be greatly improved and controlled over time and the improvement can often be maintained.

Understanding the condition and receiving advice on how to adapt to everyday activities are central elements to a patient’s successful long-term management of Lymphoedema.
Drug therapy is of limited value. However a number of treatments can be used to successfully reduce, control and manage this condition. These are:

· MLD – Medical Lymphatic Drainage - This is specialist hands-on therapy designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. (This is different to lymphatic drainage as used in beauty therapy)
· Multilayer bandaging - Specialist intensive bandaging used in conjunction with MLD in the management of pronounced Lymphoedema
· Advice and tuition in Simple Lymphatic Drainage (self-help treatment)
· Advice and provision of compression wear
· Advice and tuition in appropriate exercises
· Advice on skin care
· Advice on diet
· Provision of on-going care according to individual needs
· The option of additional treatment at intervals if appropriate        More about Lymphoedema >