If lymphedema isn’t managed, the swelling can become more pronounced and even change the texture of the skin, making it thicker or firmer. This can affect not only appearance but also mobility and daily comfort. The good news is that with the right treatment—like compression therapy, exercise, and proper skin care—the swelling can be controlled, helping reduce leg size and improve quality of life.
Lymphedema
care for swollen, heavy legs—so you can get back to moving comfortably
If you’re living with lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency with lymphatic overload (also called phlebolymphedema), or you’ve developed swelling after surgery or injury, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. Our clinic blends gentle, human care with evidence‑based treatments to reduce swelling, protect skin, and improve day‑to‑day comfort.
Every body is different. We listen, measure, and plan with you. Then we stay alongside you—checking progress and fine‑tuning as life changes.
What is Lymphedema
Lymphedema is a condition that happens when the body’s lymphatic system can’t properly drain fluid, leading to swelling—most often in the arms or legs. It can develop after cancer treatments, surgery, infections, or sometimes without a clear cause. While it isn’t usually life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and, if untreated, may lead to infections or changes in the skin. With the right care, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, many people manage lymphedema effectively and maintain a good quality of life.
How does lymphedema cause
the limb to become larger over time?
Lymphedema increases leg size because the lymphatic system can’t properly drain fluid from the tissues. When this fluid collects, it causes swelling that can start out mild—like a little puffiness around the ankle—but may gradually spread and make the entire leg look and feel larger. Over time, the constant buildup of fluid stretches the skin and adds extra weight, making the leg feel heavy, tight, or difficult to move comfortably.
Conditions we manage
Lymphedema
Swelling caused by a reduced ability of the lymphatic system to drain fluid. It may be primary (present from birth) or secondary to surgery, radiotherapy, infection, or injury.
- Progressive limb heaviness, tightness, or reduced flexibility
- Skin changes and higher risk of infections like cellulitis
- Best outcomes with early diagnosis and consistent care
Phlebolymphedema
When chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) overwhelms the lymphatic system, fluid builds up. Treating the veins and the lymphatics together is essential.
- Signs can include ankle swelling that worsens during the day, aching, and skin discoloration
- Duplex ultrasound and limb measurements help guide treatment
- Combination therapy: compression, activity, skin care, and vein interventions when indicated
Post‑surgical & post‑traumatic lymphatic dysfunction
After procedures (e.g., cancer surgery, vein surgery) or injuries, lymphatic pathways may be disrupted. We help calm swelling and protect tissue as you heal.
- Gentle, staged compression and manual lymphatic drainage
- Scar management and range‑of‑motion plans
- Close follow‑up to prevent flare‑ups
Compassion first. Science always.
How we care for you
Thorough assessment
We start with your story—when the swelling began, how it behaves, and what you’ve tried. Then we examine veins and lymphatics with measurements and ultrasound assesment.
Personalised treatment plan
Most plans combine education, manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy (bandaging, wraps, or custom garments), exercise, skin care, and, if appropriate, vein procedures.
- Garment fitting and training to make compression doable
- Options for pneumatic compression pumps
- Vein treatments for CVI where indicated
Skin protection & infection prevention
Healthy skin is your first defense. We teach daily routines and early warning signs to reduce cellulitis risk.
- Moisturising, nail care, and gentle cleansing
- What to pack for travel days
- When to seek prompt medical care
Many people see meaningful improvements within weeks when they combine movement, skin care, and the right compression. Small, steady steps add up.
Frequently asked questions
Is lymphedema curable?
Lymphedema is typically long‑term, but symptoms can be managed very effectively. With consistent care many people see less swelling, better comfort, and healthier skin
What’s the difference between lymphedema and phlebolymphedema?
Both involve swelling. In phlebolymphedema, vein disease drives fluid overload that strains the lymphatics. We address both systems for lasting results.
Will I need compression forever?
Compression is a cornerstone of care. The type and schedule may change over time—our goal is to make it comfortable and sustainable.
Are edema and Lymphedema the same
All lymphedema is edema, but not all edema is lymphedema.
Edema is a general term for swelling that happens when fluid builds up in the body’s tissues. It can be caused by many things, such as heart, kidney, or liver problems, certain medications, or simply standing for long periods.
Lymphedema, on the other hand, is a specific type of edema. It happens when the lymphatic system—which normally drains fluid and helps fight infections—doesn’t work properly. This leads to a buildup of lymph fluid, most often in the arms or legs, and can cause long-term swelling that needs special care.
