Aims of Lymphoedema Treatment:
- Prevent progression of the condition
- Reduce oedema and maintain the improvement
- Alleviate associated symptoms
- Prevent infection
- Improve function and quality of life
- Early intervention is recommended.
Available Treatments:
- Complex Lymphoedema Therapy (CLT) is the recommended method, involving:
- Education
- Skin care
- Exercise
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
- Compression therapy
- Treatment is individualised, with not all components necessary for every case.
- Phase I includes:
- Skin care
- MLD
- Compression bandaging
- Exercises
- Psychosocial support
- Compression garment prescription
- Phase II is a home maintenance program focusing on self-management.
Importance of Compression:
- Compression garments are crucial in lymphoedema treatment.
- They apply medically appropriate pressure to reduce fluid pooling, preserve limb size and shape, and support lymphatic circulation.
- Graduated compression garments come in various styles, sizes, colours, and compression grades (class 1-IV).
- Lymphoedema therapists can recommend suitable garments, including pre-sized or custom-made options.
- Garments are typically worn during the day and need regular replacement.
- Some individuals with mild lymphoedema may not require compression garments.