Understanding Lymphoedema: How I Can Support You
Living with or being at risk of lymphoedema can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that with the right knowledge, monitoring, and early support, you can reduce its impact on your daily life. This is where my work as a physiotherapist and lymphoedema therapist comes in.
My Qualifications
I completed the ALERT Lymphoedema Accreditation Programme through Macquarie University in Sydney. This is a comprehensive, evidence-based training programme that focuses on diagnosing, monitoring, and treating lymphoedema. This qualification ensures I can provide you with safe, effective, and up-to-date care.
Who Is at Risk of Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema can develop when the lymphatic system is damaged or under strain. You may be at higher risk if you have experienced:
Lymph node removal
Surgery that impacts lymphatic flow
Trauma affecting lymphatics
Chemotherapy (especially taxane therapies)
Radiation therapy
It’s also common to have a combination of these treatments, which can increase your risk further.
Why Early Monitoring Matters
The earlier I meet you in your cancer journey—before, during, or after treatment—the easier it is to put strategies in place to reduce your risk. With advances in research and technology, we now have reliable ways to educate, monitor, and intervene early if fluid changes are detected.
Key assessment tools include:
Your own observations and self-checks
My clinical observations
SOZO (Bioimpedance Spectroscopy – BIS), which measures subtle changes in fluid
Circumference measurements
The SOZO device is particularly valuable. It sends a safe electrical current through your body to measure body composition and fluid levels. Using the Sozo and other tools at regular intervals, can help to detect changes allowing us to act early.
If You Develop Lymphoedema: Treatment Options
If lymphoedema is diagnosed there are effective treatments available including:
Education and self-management
Compression therapy (bandages, garments, wraps)
Manual lymphatic drainage (therapist-guided, self-massage, or compression pump)
Exercise and movement
Skin care (moisturising, infection prevention)
Microsurgery can be considered in some cases and a referral made to a surgeon (this is a relatively new option in NZ but has been well established overseas)
Final Thoughts
Lymphoedema doesn’t have to be worrying. With the right education, monitoring, and support, it is possible to reduce its impact and take control of your wellbeing.
👉 If you’d like support in monitoring or managing lymphoedema, I’d be happy to help. You can connect with me here.
Rachael
This post is for general information only. For personalised, evidence-based care, please book an appointment with me in person or online.