TREATMENTS
LYMPHATIC REHABILITATION
Lymphoedema and lipoedema management starts with a full assessment and diagnosis.
It is vital to establish the cause of swelling, especially when this is unclear or no previous diagnosis has been offered.
Once assessed Flow Lymph Care aims to provide an appropriate care plan based on the best clinical evidence/research available and support for you.
Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT) is the term used for a 2-phase approach to managing lymphoedema:
Phase one of therapy, during which you may receive daily treatment with MLD, Velcro wraps and bandaging for several weeks, to help reduce the volume and improve the shape of the affected limb.
Phase two is maintenance therapy and you will be encouraged to take over your care using simple self-massage techniques, wearing compression garments and continuing to exercise and look after your skin. Many clients do not require the first phase of treatment and move straight into the maintenance phase of managing their condition.
Flow offers a range of treatment modalities to treat your particular condition.
This may include:
Multi-layer lymphoedema bandaging (MLLB)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (FG-MLD)
Scar therapy
Compression therapy
Kinesio taping
Photobiomodulation
Introduction of appropriate remedial exercises
Skin care
Psychological support
Some of the treatments used are listed separately.
MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Manual lymphatic drainage is a gentle massage technique using a series of rhythmic, light strokes in a specific sequence along the lymphatic vessels and surrounding tissues.
Fluoroscopy Guided Manual Lymphatic Drainage (FG-MLD) also known as the ‘Fill and Flush’ method has been developed by Professor JP Belgrado from the University of Brussels. He visualised the lymphatic vessels by the use of fluoroscopy to create a system of specialist hand movements designed to ensure that the most efficient and effective technique is used to clear and fill the lymphatics from compromised areas to normally functioning zones.
Benefits of Treatment:
· A diagnosis and full explanation of your condition
· An individualised treatment programme of care
· Control of your swelling and improved comfort
· Improved range of movement, better posture/gait and greater independence
· Improved skin condition and less infections
· Reduced clothing/footwear limitations
· Increased confidence and self esteem
· Better quality of life
COMPRESSION THERAPY
Compression garments are an important part of the management of lymphoedema and lipoedema. Compression garments are graduated to help move fluid up towards the lymph nodes and designed to prevent retention of fluid in the tissues. It provides resistance against which the muscles can pump and move lymph fluid more effectively.
Flow Lymph Care offers multi-layer lymphoedema bandaging (MLLB) and the measuring and fitting of compression garments and /or Velcro wraps.
Kerry has in depth knowledge of all the compression companies and the products they offer and can fit made to measure and off the shelf graduated compression garments.
Compression garments are available in a wide variety of different colours, styles and makes. Following an assessment, recommendations will be given on the most appropriate garment for you, specific measurements taken and a prescription request for your GP provided (if the garment is available on prescription).
KINESIO TAPING
When kinesiology tape is applied to your body, it recoils slightly, gently lifting your skin. It is believed that this helps to create a microscopic space between your skin and the tissues underneath it.
After the tape is applied it creates extra subcutaneous space, which changes the pressure gradient in the area underneath your skin. That change in pressure enhances the flow of lymphatic fluid.
By using specialised application techniques to lift the skin in the affected area, this encourages the lymphatic fluid to travel from the swollen and congested area to an uncongested area, where it can drain naturally back into the circulation.
Kinesio Taping is designed to mimic the skin’s elasticity, so it will not restrict your movement. The tapes medical-grade adhesive is also water-resistant and strong enough to stay on for three to five days, even while you work-out or take showers.
Please note a 24-hour patch test is required before Kinesio taping can be applied.
PHOTOBIOMODULATION
low level laser therapy (LLLT)
Photobiomodulation (PBM) also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a
non-thermal, photochemical method of stimulating cells.
Flow Lymph Care uses the Handy Cure s' Therapeutic Laser which combines low level pulsed infrared laser, visible red light and static magnetic field in a compact handheld device that is designed to combat pain and inflammation.
Handy Cures' Pulsed Laser is particularly effective in inflammatory conditions presenting with compromised micro-circulation and impaired supply of oxygen to cells and tissues. Poor circulation frequently leads to ischaemic tissue injuries.
Handy Cure s' Laser enhances blood flow in the treated areas and shortens the duration of ischaemic episodes, reducing associated pain and discomfort.
It encourages rapid healing of tissues, nerves, tendons, ligaments, muscle, bone and wounds. It has an effect on scar tissue and allows nutrients to be absorbed thus softening fibrotic (hard) tissue. It reduces pain, swelling and can help heal wounds.
SCAR THERAPY
Our bodies undertake a complex repair process following trauma or surgery, to quickly repair breakages in the skin's surface and the underlying tissues. Scar tissue is composed of dense, mainly collagen fibres and many factors can have an impact on wound healing including the background to how the wound came about, your current health, ongoing medical treatments, and infections.
Occasionally, scars may cause some problems. Thickened scar tissue may develop, and there may be swelling, feelings of restriction, or changes in sensation such as numbness, itching, and pain. The complexity of our bodies means that scars may even lead to discomfort elsewhere in the body.
Scar therapy is also known as scar tissue massage or scar tissue mobilisation. Kerry is a trained Restore scar therapy practitioner.
Scar therapy will help remodel scar tissue that has developed after an injury. It is a treatment used after surgery, fracture, or burn. Scar therapy will be tailored to focus on areas of tightness and tension around your scar and the underlying fascia, muscles and any fibrotic tissue.
You can have Scar Therapy once the post-operative check-up has been carried out, approximately 8 weeks post-surgery, and it is never too late to start work on a scar.
After having Scar Therapy, most will notice how their scars feel softer, flatter, and less restrictive.
Benefits of Treatment:
· A diagnosis and full explanation of your condition
· An individualised treatment programme of care
· Reduce sensitivity, pain and itching
· Help restricted mobility to reduce tightness and sticking in scar tissue
· Stimulate and boost healing promoting optimum scar healing after surgery
· Scar massage is a powerful way to aid emotional recovery
PRE & POST-SURGERY BRA FITTING
80% of women wear the wrong size bra and it is vital for your lymphatic recovery to be in a good supportive well-fitting bra.
Kerry is an Anita care consultant offering specialist bra fitting during and after breast cancer treatment and after cosmetic surgery to support your recovery and rehabilitation.
Following any chest or breast surgery, you will need a bra that is supportive yet comfortable, our range of compression bras are all designed specifically to optimise your healing process and help reduce swelling.
Flow stocks a range of supportive and compression bras with lingerie from Anita care and Anita active ranges.
Anita Care Bras - High-quality breast prostheses, mastectomy bras and swimwear with a perfect fit. Fashionable and feminine styles that will support you and help you feel secure, confident and beautiful.