Although there is no curative treatment, a combination of physical therapies can help to control and reduce the swelling. Research into lymphoedema treatment is limited and it is not yet possible to provide strong evidence for some of the advice and treatment that is used. However, the results produced by treatment centres around the world indicate that the combination of physical therapies has helped many people, especially when it is continued through self-treatment.
Many of the problems that develop can be prevented if you are referred when the swelling is at an early stage. Treatment is designed to improve lymph drainage and to prevent complications that will make the swelling worse.
The four corner-stones of treatment are:
- skin care
- compression garments
- exercise
- simple lymphatic drainage (self-massage)
These four aspects of care form a treatment called Maintenance Therapy. This is the way that swelling can be kept under control and it is made up of treatment methods that you can do for yourself.
Sometimes more intensive treatment is needed to reduce the swelling. This treatment is often called Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy (DLT). Intensive treatment usually involves bandaging and a special form of lymphoedema massage. Intensive treatment usually involves daily treatment and you will need to make special arrangements so that you can attend clinic for regular treatment. Once the intensive treatment is completed, you will be able to continue your self care through a programme of maintenance therapy.
The aim of all treatment is to help you feel confident about how you can self-manage your condition. It may take some time before you notice any changes but if you continue with the treatments you have been shown on a daily basis you will see a gradual improvement