Block and Roll Exercise

Roll up a towel so that the diameter of the towel is _____cm. Use a stack of magazines or books to create a ‘block’ that is ____cm tall. Lie on a flat and firm surface with your back flat against the floor. Place the towel under the curve in your neck and the ‘block’ under…

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is caused by pressure on the median nerve as it runs through the wrist. Symptoms can include pins and needles and / or numbness especially at night, as well as possible pain and weakness in the hand. The Carpal Tunnel The Carpal Tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist opening out into…

COLD and HEAT TREATMENTS

CRYOTHERAPY Cryotherapy is the application of cold or ice for the treatment of acute or overuse injuries. It may be applied via number of methods including ice pack, “cryocuff”, frozen vegetables, crushed ice, ice block massage or ice water immersion. The effects of Cryotherapy are a decrease in pain, decrease in swelling/bleeding and a decrease…

Fitness for Seniors

MEDICAL EVIDENCE SHOWS THAT IF YOU KEEP PHYSICALLY FIT BY EXERCISING REGULARLY YOU INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF LIVING A HEALTHIER LIFE – FEELING WELL, LOOKING WELL, MAITAINING YOUR LIFESTYLE. PHYSIOTHERAPISTS ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO KEEP ACTIVE WITH SENSIBLE EXERCISES SUITED TO THEIR AGE AND PHYSICAL CONDITION. WHY EXERCISE? Strength and mobility – exercise helps to prevent…

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…

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…