Raymond Terrace Therapy are proud to offer support to those experiencing Lymphoedema. Read below to find out more about how our Occupational Therapist Samara can support you on your journey.
wHAT IS lYMPHOEDEMA?
Cancer Council Australia explain Lymphoedema to be ” swelling (oedema) that develops when lymph fluid builds up in the tissues under the skin (sometimes deeper in the abdomen and chest areas). This happens because the lymphatic system is not working properly in that part of the body.”
According to a recent study, 1 in 5 cancer patients treated for breast, cervical, ovarian and prostate cancers will experience Lymphoedema.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of lymphoedema may include:
- the affected area feels heavy
- the skin feels tight
- the skin may feel warmer than other areas of the body
- aching in the affected area
- painful joints
- swelling
How can we help?
Raymond Terrace Therapy are proud to offer Lymphoedema Management services under the guidance of our wonderful externally trained Occupational Therapist Samara, and our Physiotherapists Jake and Rob.
Raymond Terrace Therapy’s Lymphoedema treatment is best suited to those who are recovering from surgery where the lymph nodes have been removed, those experiencing limb heaviness and increased persistent swelling.
Here is an overview of what your care may look like with Raymond Terrace Therapy:
- Exercises: RTT can provide an ongoing exercise program to assist in moving the excess fluid out of the swollen limb.
- Manual lymphatic drainage: Our therapists can provide manual lymphatic drainage consisting of a light massage to move the trapped fluid in the swollen limb toward an area with working lymph vessels. People should avoid manual lymph drainage if they have a skin infection, blood clots or active cancer in the affected limb.
- Compression bandages: Using low-stretch bandages to wrap the affected limb. This encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body.
- Compression garments: RTT therapists can assist you in picking an appropriate off the shelf garment or, if needed, provide assistance in having a specific compression garment made to fit you individually. Out therapist can also assist in funding applications to the relevant organisations.
- Sequential pneumatic compression: RTT offers the option of pneumatic compression which involves the affected limb being placed in a sleeve (arm or leg). The sleeve connects to a pump that intermittently inflates the sleeve, putting pressure on the limb and moving lymph fluid away from the fingers or toes.
How can I access these services?
If you would like to make a referral to see Samara for Lymphoedema management, please follow the link below or give us a call on (02) 4987 3466.
You are able to use Private Health Funding, DVA or a Medicare EPC referral to access our Lymphoedema Management services.