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What is lymphoedema
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterised by fluid accumulation from the lymphatic system in the body’s tissues, resulting in swelling, mainly in the limbs and other body parts.
The lymphatic system is made of a network of vessels, ducts, and nodes that help remove excess fluid from the body’s tissues and transport it back to the bloodstream.
When the lymphatic system is damaged or does not function properly, this can lead to a build-up of lymphatic fluid in the affected area, resulting in swelling and other symptoms. Lymphoedema can occur due to various factors, including surgery, radiation therapy, certain types of cancer, and certain genetic conditions.
What causes lymphoedema?
The causes of Lymphoedema can be divided into two categories: primary and secondary Lymphoedema.
Primary Lymphoedema is caused by a genetic defect in the development of the lymphatic system; it is a rare condition not caused by an external condition that can be present at birth or develop later in life.
Secondary Lymphoedema is caused by an external factor that damages or impairs the function of the lymphatic system.
The most common causes are:
- Surgery: Lymph nodes or vessels may be removed or damaged during surgery, leading to Lymphoedema. This is particularly common in breast, prostate, or gynaecological cancer surgeries.
- Radiotherapy: Radiation therapy can damage or destroy lymph vessels and nodes, leading to Lymphoedema.
- Cancer: Certain types of cancer, such as breast or melanoma, can invade and damage the lymphatic system, leading to Lymphoedema.
- Infections: Chronic infections such as filariasis can damage the lymphatic system, leading to Lymphoedema.
- Trauma: Trauma to the lymphatic system, such as injury, burns, or fractures, can lead to Lymphoedema.
- Obesity: Obesity can put extra pressure on the lymphatic system, making it harder for the body to drain fluids and increasing the risk of Lymphoedema.
- Age: as people age, their lymphatic system may not function as well, increasing the risk of Lymphoedema.
- Gender: women are more likely to develop Lymphoedema than men.
Not all people with one or more of these risk factors will develop Lymphoedema.
What are the symptoms of lymphoedema?
- Swelling in the affected limb or area
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Reduced range of motion
- Hardening or thickening of the skin
- Recurrent infections
How is lymphoedema diagnosed?
Lymphoedema is typically diagnosed through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies.
- Physical examination: The doctor will examine the affected area for swelling, skin changes, and other symptoms of Lymphoedema. They may also measure the circumference of the affected limb to assess the degree of swelling.
- Medical history: The doctor will ask about previous surgeries, radiation therapy, or other medical conditions that may have damaged the lymphatic system. They may also ask about symptoms such as swelling, heaviness or tightness, and recurrent infections.
- Imaging studies: Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan to examine the lymphatic vessels and nodes and assess the extent of the swelling.
- Lymphoscintigraphy: This is a particular type of imaging test that consists in radioactive material that flows through the lymph ducts to visualise the lymphatic vessels and assess the function of the lymphatic system.
- Pitting oedema test: it’s a simple test that consists of pressing the swollen area with a finger and checking if the skin dimples.
It’s important to note that Lymphoedema can be difficult to diagnose. Its symptoms may be similar to other conditions, such as venous insufficiency, which may not be evident in imaging studies. The diagnosis may also be delayed if the patient’s primary concern is the cosmetic aspect of the swelling rather than the functional aspect of it.
Benefits
Manual Lymphatic Drainage on Lymphoedema
- Reduces swelling by moving excess fluid from congested areas toward functioning lymph nodes.
- Softens hardened tissue and fibrosis, making the affected area more flexible.
- Decreases pain and heaviness in the swollen limb.
- Helps prevent infections by improving lymph flow.
- Improves skin condition and tissue health in the affected area.
- Teaches you to recognise early signs of fluid buildup.
Treatment may incorporate complementary soft tissue techniques where clinically indicated to address specific tissue concerns such as fibrosis.
Contraindications
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Active infection or open wounds.
- Cancer (if you have or had cancer treatment just finished you will be requested a written letter from your GP/oncologist ensuring it is safe for you to start the treatment).
- Thrombosis and DVT.
- Heart conditions.
- Kidney problems.
Important
It’s important to note that the treatment plan will vary depending on the individual’s needs, the severity of the condition, and the underlying cause of the Lymphoedema.
Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is often needed for optimal management, including the participation of a lymphoedema therapist, a physician, and a physiotherapist.
Important – Accessibility
The practice is only accessible though stairs. If you have mobility challenges, please contact us before booking to discuss suitable alternatives for your treatment needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
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