Treatments

Evidence-based treatments with high success rates, delivered by an experienced specialist

Lymphoedema can be treated in a number of ways. We cover only those treatments supported with hard evidence and as a result we achieve high treatment results. Sue Levine is very experienced in the treatments she provides and is constantly attending courses to keep her knowledge and ability at the highest professional level.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

Manual lymphatic drainage is a specialised, gentle type of skin massage and an important part of lymphoedema treatment. The aim is to encourage the extra lymph fluid to move away from the swollen area so it can drain normally.

Simple Lymphatic Drainage (SLD)

You can learn to do a simplified version of MLD at home yourself. It's important that you're taught this by a specialist. SLD helps stimulate the lymph channels and drain excess fluid.

Multi-Layer Lymphatic Bandaging (MLLB)

Bandaging for lymphoedema helps lymph to drain and stops it building up. It can also help parts of the body to get back to their normal shape. Bandaging needs to be done in a particular way — if it is uneven or isn't done correctly it may not work.

Finger or toe bandaging if you have lymphoedema of a limb
A tubular bandage
A layer of soft synthetic wool or foam
A dense foam layer
Low stretch bandages
Taping to fix everything in place

Measuring for Compression Garments

The most important prerequisite for successful treatment with compression hosiery is a stocking that fits perfectly. Measurements should only be taken by trained specialists using clearly defined criteria. The ideal time to take measurement is before any swelling can develop, i.e., in the morning or immediately after compression bandages have been removed.

Skin Care

Skin care is an important aspect in managing lymphoedema. Within the skin cells there are natural moisturising factors (NMFs) that start to diminish after the age of 20, making skin at risk of becoming drier. It is vital to improve or maintain healthy skin condition in people who suffer with lymphoedema.

Appropriate Exercise Regime

Exercise helps lymph fluid move through the lymphatic system, reducing swelling because exercise makes the muscles contract and push lymph through the lymph vessels. Research shows that exercise can improve lymph fluid movement — it does not make lymphoedema worse.

Dietary Advice

Good nutrition is important for overall health, weight management, and in the prevention of chronic diseases. Several recent research studies have demonstrated the relationship between nutrition and exercise and lymphoedema symptoms.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Early access to specialist physiotherapy-led intervention prevents the more serious disabling aspects of the condition associated with poor management. Treatment focuses on reducing scar tissue, cording, and musculoskeletal complications.

Reflex Therapy (Lymphatic System)

In 2012, a research programme at Cardiff Metropolitan University evaluated the effects of manually applied lymphatic drainage techniques through the reflexes on the feet, with great results. A second, much larger study funded by Tenovus in 2013 replicated these results.