Lymphoedema

Lymphoedma is swelling, caused by inadequate lymphatic drainage. There is an excess accumulation of fluid.

Secondary lymphoedma is the most common type seen in cancer care, as it is often the result of surgical removal of lymph nodes as part of cancer treatment.

There are four main treatments for lymphoedma: skin care; excercise, lymphatic drainage and compression therapy.

Lymphoedma can occur any where in the body but is most commonly seen in the arms and legs. There are two videos/DVDs produced by the Lymphoedema Support Network that demonstrate techniques to help control Lymphoedema of the arm or leg. The publications are called:

Each covers the self management aspects of care, including compression garments, skin care, exercises and simple lymphatic drainage.

Compression garments can be ordered via the website (£12.00 inc p&p) or from The Lymphoedema Support Network, St. Lukes Crypt, Sidney Street, London SW3 6NH.