Coban 2 Bandaging for Lymphoedema

Information about the 3M Coban 2 Layer Compression System Bandages stick to themselves and adhere to the comfort layer underneath providing better cohesion and less slippage Designed to provide 25-40mmHg Indicated for the management of venous leg ulcers, lymphoedema and other suitable conditions requiring compression therapy Must only be applied by a qualified professional Clinically…

Complex Lymphoedema Therapy (CLT)

Complex lymphoedema therapy is a treatment method used to speed up the lymphatic system, remove excess fluid and maintain the volume of a limb or a body part. CLT has evolved over the past 150 years. Today, CLT is performed by qualified lymphoedema professionals, such as Physiotherapists, Doctors, Registered Nurses and Occupational Therapists. There are…

Compression Garments for Lymphoedema

Your Doctor or Lymphoedema Physiotherapist may prescribe a compression garment for you. Usually it is easiest, safest and most cost-effective for your physiotherapist to order your garment directly from the manufacturer. This way you can be assured of the correct specifications to suit your needs and your therapist can assist you in commencing wear. HINTS…

General Do’s and Don’ts for Lymphoedema

Long distance travel (over 8 hours) by plane, bus, car or train may increase the risk of developing lymphoedema, or worsen existing lymphoedema. DO Elevate your swollen limb. Perform manual lymphatic drainage, exercises and deep breathing daily. Keep moving! Wear a prescribed compression garment as advised, especially when travelling. You may need to increase your…

Skincare for Lymphoedema

Aim To maintain normal skin integrity and suppleness and avoid infection. This is achieved by daily hygiene and by addressing problems such as dry, scaly, cracked or infected skin immediately. Maintaining Good Hygiene Shower daily using pH products such as DermaVeen or QV Body wash (NOT soap!) Scrub skin gently with a body brush. A…

Sport and Recreation for Lymphoedema

Recommended Activities Keep active and avoid sitting for long periods of time. Start with gentle exercise and gradually work up to more challenging exercise. Avoid strenuous exercise if your body isn’t used to it. 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 times per week is recommended. Check your affected limb before and after exercises for these…

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The aim of manual lymphatic drainage is to stimulate the lymphatic system and create alternate pathways for the lymph fluid to flow. MLD works on the plasticity of the lymphatic system, that is, the body’s ability to expand and grow more lymphatic branches. The massage is performed with the light touch over specific regions conducted…

Living with Lymphoedema

WHAT IS THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM? The blood circulatory system pumps essential blood and nutrients around the body. While most blood is reabsorbed by blood vessels, the remaining fluid, which contains waste products, becomes known as lymph fluid. This fluid is absorbed by the lymphatic vessels and transported to lymph nodes and eventually to the kidneys…

Travel Advice for Lymphoedema

Long distance travel (over 8 hours) by plane, bus, car or train may increase the risk of developing lymphoedema, or worsen existing lymphoedema. It is suggested that you: ✓ Regularly exercise the affected or ‘at risk ✓ Limb by taking breaks and walking around every few hours. ✓ Wear a travel compression garment as recommended…