Service description
The lymphoedema service is a clinic-based service which is offered to patients with non-cancer related lymphoedema.
We are a small highly skilled team made up of different healthcare professionals such as podiatry, occupational therapy and district nursing which allows us to provide holistic individualised patient care.
Our aim empower our patients, relatives and carers to manage their own lymphoedema by providing them with the knowledge, skills and the tools to assist.
As a patient under our service we provide a 90 minute initial comprehensive assessment, where we assess and personalise your lymphoedema treatment. This lymphoedema service is here to support you at every step of your journey, offering care, advice, and treatment to help you manage your condition and feel your best.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a long term chronic condition. The lymphatic system collects and filters fluid from your body and returns it to your bloodstream. The lymphatic system also plays an important part in your immune system and is made up of lymph nodes which are connected by lymph vessels.
When lymphatic fluid is not flowing properly, this causes a chronic swelling called lymphoedema.
How do I know if I have lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema symptoms include:
- Increased swelling to the affected area, normally to the limbs
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness to the affected area
- There maybe skin changes such as feeling firm to touch or change in skin colour
- Can be more prone to cellulitis (skin infections)
Treatment
A key factor in the management of lymphoedema is early intervention with appropriate guidance and treatment from specialist trained professionals. We work alongside patients to help control, reduce and prevent further progression and complications from lymphoedema.
The main components of lymphoedema management implemented are as follows:
- Compression such as compression garments and multi layer bandaging
- Decongestive therapies such as the use of pneumatic pump devices
- Skin care
- Lymphatic drainage- Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)
- Simple lymphatic drainage (SLD)
- Exercise
- Patient advice/support/education
Referral criteria
You can access our service by getting in contact with your GP.