
Lymphoedema treatment
The recommended treatment for lymphoedema is:
Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT).
DLT isn’t a cure for lymphoedema, but it can help control the symptoms. Although it takes time and effort, the treatment can be used to bring lymphoedema under control.
About Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT)
There are four components to DLT:
- Compression bandages to complement exercise by moving fluid out of the affected limb and minimise further build-up
- Skin care to keep the skin in good condition and reduce the chances of infection
- Exercises to use muscles in the affected limb to improve lymph drainage
- Specialised massage techniques known as manual lymphatic drainage (MLD); this stimulates the flow of fluid in the lymphatic system and reduces swelling
DLT is an intensive phase of therapy, during which the patient may receive daily treatment for several weeks to help reduce the volume of the affected body part.
This is followed by the maintenance phase using simple self-massage techniques, wearing compression garments, and continuing to exercise to maintain the reduced size of the affected body part.
Lymphoedema referrals
May be sent to one of the clinics below.
NHS referrals for adults with both Primary and Secondary Lymphoedema are accepted.
Contact:
Lymphoedema Department St Giles Hospice Litchfield
Referral form: see link on right of page
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