Does a physiotherapy perform lymphoedema therapy?

Care may include education, skin care, movement, compression, and specialised hands-on techniques when suitable. Not every physiotherapist offers this service, so look for a clinician with specific lymphoedema experience.

Lymphoedema can develop when lymph fluid does not drain effectively, sometimes after lymph node surgery or radiotherapy. The therapist examines the location and texture of swelling, skin condition, movement, symptoms, and how the change affects clothing or daily tasks. They also consider other possible causes that need medical assessment.

Management aims to control swelling, protect the skin, maintain movement, and build practical self-care. Compression sleeves, stockings, wraps, or other garments must be selected and fitted for the individual. Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle specialist technique and is only one possible part of a broader plan.

Tell the therapist when the swelling began, how it changes through the day, and whether there is heaviness, tightness, pain, or reduced movement. Bring details of cancer surgery, lymph node treatment, radiotherapy, medicines, heart or kidney conditions, and any previous infections. Do not borrow another person's compression garment or start firm massage before the cause and circulation have been assessed.

Seek prompt medical advice if a swollen area becomes red, hot, newly painful, or rapidly larger, especially with fever or feeling unwell, because infection or another condition may need treatment. Sudden swelling with chest pain or breathing difficulty requires urgent medical care. Remove a compression item and obtain advice if it causes numbness, colour change, severe pain, or cold fingers or toes.

You may want to ask whether other causes of swelling have been excluded, which compression option suits the affected area, how to check your skin and garment fit, which movements are appropriate, how progress will be monitored, and whom to contact if swelling changes between visits.