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Lymphoedema Management

Expert Lymphoedema Assessment, Diagnosis and Management in Newcastle

Specialist lymphoedema assessment and evidence-based management to support early identification, clinical monitoring and ongoing management of lymphatic dysfunction.

Book a lymphoedema appointment here!

What is Lymphoedema?

  • Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where the accumulation of excessive amounts of protein-rich fluid in the body tissues results in swelling in one or more regions of the body
  • Lymphoedema can be caused by abnormalities in the development of the lymphatic system (primary lymphoedema) or by damage to lymphatic structures caused by surgery, radiation therapy, infection or physical trauma
  • The development of lymphoedema can also be caused by the lymphatic failure associated with venous disease, immobility, obesity, lipoedema and heart/kidney failure
  • Lymphoedema most commonly affects the limbs but can also be present in the breast, chest wall, trunk, pelvis, genitals, head and neck, depending on its cause

Common Signs and Symptoms

Persistent swelling of a limb or other region of the body

Sensation of heaviness, aching or discomfort in the affected area/s

Tightness of the affected area/s with fluctuation in the fit of clothing, jewellery or shoes

Decreased movement in the affected area/s

Recurrent skin infections (cellulitis)

What Makes Our Service Unique

  • AHPRA-registered physiotherapist with post-graduate training in the assessment and management of lymphoedema of the upper limb, lower limb, breast and trunk/abdomen (Casley-Smith Method)
  • Qualified head and neck lymphoedema therapist through Macquarie University's ALERT program
  • One-on-one appointments with the same clinician for care consistency and detailed monitoring
  • Direct communication with your treating therapist for advice and support between in-clinic appointments
  • Patient-centred care model where care and interventions are specific to your individual goals
  • Comprehensive assessment and management of lymphoedema

Lymphoedema Assessment

  • Thorough patient history including symptom history, review of medical/surgical background and goal setting
  • Discussion regarding daily routines and normal activities
  • Observation and palpation including assessment of skin integrity, tape measurements to determine limb/body part volume and functional assessment of joint mobility and strength
  • Bioimpedance spectroscopy scan (SOZO)
  • Standardised outcome measures e.g. LYMQOL
  • Review of previously prescribed compression garments (if applicable)
  • Diagnosis and staging of severity

Comprehensive Lymphoedema Management

  • At Hunter Rehab Hub, we provide the gold-standard lymphoedema treatment approach, known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which includes:
  • Education on the lymphatic system and its altered functioning in lymphoedema
  • Strategies to maintain skin health and minimise risk of infection
  • Exercise and activity recommendations that assist lymphatic flow and optimise general health, strength, endurance and mobility
  • Manual lymphatic drainage to reduce fluid build-up and improve lymphatic circulation
  • Compression garment assessment and prescription - ready-to-wear (off the shelf), made-to-order and custom made garments, including EnableNSW funding
  • Guidance and support with implementation of self-management strategies
  • If suitable, we also provide the following adjunctive therapies in addition to CDT:
  • Guidance on optimal nutrition and weight management to reduce systemic inflammation and limit condition progression
  • Other manual therapies including soft tissue mobilisation, scar tissue therapy, modern cupping techniques and kinesiotaping
  • Sequential intermittent pneumatic compression (SIPC) pumps
  • MLS laser therapy to assist lymphatic drainage, reduce inflammation and support tissue repair
  • On-referral if required e.g. GP, dietitian, specialist

Your lymphoedema questions answered

FAQ's

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where the accumulation of excessive amounts of protein-rich fluid in the tissues results in swelling of one or more regions of the body. It occurs due to a damaged or compromised lymphatic system and usually affects the limb(s) although it may also involve the trunk, breast, head and neck or genital area.

There are many different potential causes of lymphoedema including:

  • Cancer treatment – particularly surgery with lymph node removal and radiation therapy
  • Malignancy – tumours can compress or invade lymph vessels/nodes
  • Recurrent skin infections (cellulitis)
  • Chronic inflammation
  • Surgery
  • Trauma
  • Venous disease
  • Immobility/dependency
  • Congenital abnormalities

The gold-standard treatment approach for managing lymphoedema is Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). CDT is a structured, multi-part program designed to reduce swelling and keep it under control long term. CDT has four key elements: skin care, exercise, manual lymphatic drainage and compression therapy. We deliver this program as part of best-practice care at our Newcastle clinic.

There is currently no cure for lymphoedema, but it can be effectively managed with CDT. Early intervention is key to limiting condition progression.

The early warning signs of lymphoedema include:

  • Transient swelling of a limb or other region of the body that may be aggravated by heat, overuse, sustained positions, prolonged activity, and be more obvious by the end of the day
  • Recurrent skin infections (cellulitis)
  • Feelings of aching, heaviness, or stiffness in the affected body part
  • Decreased range of movement in the affected body part
  • Tightness of the affected body part – clothing, jewellery or shoes may feel tighter

Yes, we provide manual lymphatic drainage for medical conditions as part of our comprehensive lymphoedema treatment services at our Newcastle clinic.

Yes, if you are eligible for compression garment funding through EnableNSW, we can assist throughout the process. Our accredited lymphoedema physiotherapist can assess your needs, recommend appropriate compression garments, complete the required clinical documentation, and guide you through the application process. We can also assist with garment reviews and replacements when required under the program.

Have a Question About Lymphoedema?

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1SIMPLE MAPSCreated by lutfiadelafrom the Noun Project
Location

20 Kemp Street, Wallsend NSW 2287
(Newcastle)

1SIMPLE PHONECreated by lutfi andifrom the Noun Project
Contact Us

0480 604 578
hello@hunterrehabhub.com.au

Created by Alex Muravevfrom the Noun Project
Opening Hours

By appointment only

What is Cancer Rehabilitation?

Cancer rehabilitation is a comprehensive, conservative management approach that supports individuals who are undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment. The aim of a cancer rehabilitation program is to optimise the health and wellbeing of cancer patients by reducing the impact of treatment related side effects on strength, endurance, function, mobility and quality of life.

It is recommended that those who have received a cancer diagnosis, commence a cancer rehabilitation program prior to receiving treatment (prehabilitation) and continue their program both during and after treatment as well as for long-term survivorship. Early rehabilitation and intervention can help reduce the risk and severity of developing cancer treatment related side effects as well as limit their potential progression in becoming chronic, debilitating issues.

Cancer Treatment and Potential Side Effects

There are multiple treatment approaches for cancer, many of which involve a combination of therapies to provide the most effective treatment and are dependent on diagnosis. The main types of cancer treatment are:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Targeted therapy

Many people with cancer experience side effects caused by the cancer itself and/or cancer treatment. The types and severity of side effects experienced will depend on the type of treatment received and can vary from person to person. Side effects can be physical and/or emotional and can significantly impact an individuals’ quality of life.

Some of the more common cancer treatment related side effects include:

  • Pain
  • Lymphoedema
  • Post-operative scar tissue formation
  • Axillary web syndrome (cording)
  • Radiation dermatitis
  • Radiation-induced fibrosis
  • Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
  • Hand-foot syndrome
  • Fatigue
  • General deconditioning/muscular weakness
  • Postural changes
  • Reduced joint range of motion (ROM)
  • Altered gait and mobility
  • Oral mucositis
  • Trismus
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Speech difficulties

Hunter Rehab Hub's Cancer Rehabilitation Program

At Hunter Rehab Hub, we offer a comprehensive range of services to holistically address the unique challenges faced by individuals undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment.

Here’s how we can help…

  • Education and Advice – The foundation of cancer rehabilitation. Education and advice help to empower patients with the knowledge and confidence they need to actively participate in their recovery. By understanding their diagnosis, potential side effects, treatment options and self-management strategies, patients can make informed decisions and adopt behaviors that support their physical and emotional health.

  • Exercise Prescription and Rehabilitation – Exercise is a cornerstone of cancer rehabilitation, playing a critical role in improving physical function, reducing treatment related side effects and enhancing overall quality of life. Individualised exercise programs can help patients manage fatigue, improve cardiovascular fitness, preserve muscle strength, restore mobility, address postural changes, stimulate lymphatic flow and support mental health.

  • Manual Therapy – When incorporated into a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, hands-on treatment can assist in relieving pain, improving mobility and restoring function. Techniques such as soft tissue massage, joint mobilisation and manual lymphatic drainage can help manage common side effects of cancer treatment such as musculoskeletal issues, pain, scar tissue formation and lymphoedema. Manual therapy can also contribute to improved emotional wellbeing by improving physical comfort, reducing tension and promoting relaxation.

  • Compression Therapy – A mainstay for managing lymphoedema, a common side effect of cancer treatment plans that involve surgically removing lymph nodes and/or radiation therapy. By applying controlled pressure through compression garments, bandaging systems and pneumatic devices, compression therapy helps reduce swelling, improve lymphatic and venous return and prevent fluid build-up in the affected areas. Compression therapy not only alleviates discomfort and minimises the risk of infection but also supports improved mobility and daily function.

  • MLS Laser Therapy – A non-invasive, pain-free treatment modality delivering light-based (photobiomodulation) therapy, used in combination with a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, to help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, promote wound healing and repair soft tissue damage.

  • Emotional Support and Health Service On-Referral – Addressing the psychological and emotional challenges that often accompany a cancer diagnosis and its treatment is imperative. Feelings of fear, anxiety, depression and uncertainty are common, and without adequate support, they can negatively impact recovery and quality of life. Whilst our clinicians can provide a foundational level of emotional support and understanding of your personal circumstances, they are also well equipped to make recommendations where inclusion of other health services may be beneficial.