Lymphoedema/Lipoedema Management

Comprehensive Assessment, Diagnosis, advice and treatment programmes to help improve and manage both Lymphoedema and Lipoedema.

Treatments include, Skincare, Exercise, Compression Therapy, Measuring for compression garments, Pneumatic Compression Pump Therapy, Medical Lymphatic Drainage (MLD).

Lymphoedema - is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes swelling in the body's tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms or legs. This happens when the lymphatic system is not working properly- this could be because of Primary or Secondary causes.

Lipoedema – This condition mostly affects women, although not exclusively. It is a genetic fat disorder that is often mis-diagnosed as obesity or Lymphoedema. The condition presents as a symmetrical abnormal build-up of fat and swelling affecting the lower half of the body -the hips, thighs legs. The waist and upper body is smaller in size and out of proportion to the lower part. Sometimes the arms can also be affected. Usually however, the feet and hands are usually not affected. Onset is normally around puberty or at other times when the body is going through hormonal changes such as pregnancy and the menopause. The condition can be painful and affect mobility.

Chronic Oedema - There are other types of swelling – chronic oedema is an umbrella term for swelling that has not resolved in 12 weeks. Causes can be varied, sometimes leg swelling can be caused by a reduction or lack of mobility, this is known as dependent oedema or gravitational.

Medical Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) - What is Manual Lymphatic Drainage and how can it help?
It is a very gentle, light touch massage that improves the efficiency of the lymphatic system – the body’s waste disposal system. Specific gentle stretching and stroking movements of the skin stimulate and increase the rate of removal of waste products, toxins and excess fluid from the body’s tissues. It can be used to treat Lymphoedema and Lipoedema.

Medical Lymphatic Drainage is becoming more well-known through celebrity popularity. The treatment described as “One of the best kept secrets on the health and beauty scene”. MLD’s is a very relaxing treatment but also is much more than this is popular for helping with healing and pain, oedema, bruising and scarring post-operatively. As an overall detox treatment, it is often recommended to get the lymphatic system in peak condition.

Pre & Post -operative Medical Lymphatic Drainage
Following Liposuction or cosmetic surgery many consultants and surgeons will ask for MLD to help speed up the healing process, help with minimising scarring and bruising. Some Surgeons treating certain conditions will ask for MLD to be performed pre-operative too.