Lymphoedema can occur at any age causing legs to swell and can affect both males and females.  In the very early stages the condition can be reversible especially when the legs go back down following a night’s sleep.  When Lymphoedema is more established the reduction is noticeable with C.D.T. given intensively however not a cure.  Then C.D.T. is given at regular intervals following an intensive course of treatment that is suitable for the individual’s condition.  Usually following this, once a month, every six or eight weeks where a single follow up treatment is given with M.L.D. and bandaging placed on the limb/limbs and the patient will keep this on for twenty four hours then go back into hosiery (if applicable).

ARM OEDEMA/LEG OEDEMA/HEAD OEDEMA/BREAST OEDEMA/TRUNKAL OEDEMA/RADIOTHERAPY DAMAGE
"Primary Lympoedema" is when an oedema (swelling) develops at any age for a number of reasons.

MLD and CDT is mainly recognised for treating lymphoedema. The word oedema means "swelling" and so lymphoedema means there is a swelling due to congestion of the lymphatic pathways.

For example, a breast cancer patient may experience swelling on the affected side following a lumpectomy or mastectomy and removal of some lymph nodes. This may subside without treatment but in some cases the swelling remains or may even occur years later after surgery. This is known as secondary lymphoedema. It may also occur after a hysterectomy, cervical or prostate cancer but can still be helped by this treatment.

It should be stressed that not everyone develops lymphoedema, and certainly the patient who complies with the instructions given by the hospital after surgery is greatly reducing the chances of developing this problem. Unfortunately, there is no cure for lymphoedema but MLD will maintain healthy tissue and most certainly reduce the amount of fluid in the affected area.

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HEADOEDEMA
Oedema of the head develops after the complete removal of the cervical lymph nodes for example after cancer of the larynx with intense radiotherapy. The therapist will drain the excess fluid using MLD over the skin that has not been damaged by radiotherapy to the auxillary lymph nodes which are located under the arm. Drainage is also included in other areas of the upper body.
As a result of MLD visible oedema in the head decreases, and the patient's general well being and intellectual capacity improves.

HOSIERY
Can be fitted by being referred by your G.P. to the “Appliance Officer” at your local hospital. Compression hosiery can vary and you should have a professional help with suitable compression for your condition, this is a vital part of Lymphoedema or Lipoedema management. Fittings can also be arranged privately by Nicole these may include garments not available on the N.H.S.