Patients Information

Lymphoedema

Description of Service:

Lymphoedema is a swelling caused by the failure of the lymphatic system to remove a normal accumulation of protein and fluid from body tissues.

Swelling of arm, leg, torso and head and neck will be assessed with a holistic approach. Clients should bring a list of their medical conditions and medications to the assessment appointment.

Support & education provided to treat lymphoedema using complex decongestive therapy. This includes Skin care, Exercise, lymphatic drainage (taught but not provided regularly), compression garment prescriptions.

Client’s at risk of developing Lymphoedema can attend an individual education session on ways to help prevent developing the condition.

If compression garments are recommended they are purchased by the client. Eligible clients can be assisted to obtain funding through the Lymphoedema Compression Garment Scheme which is managed by the State Wide Equipment Program.

The Lymphoedema Clinic is staffed by a Division 1 Registered Nurse who has undergone specialist Lymphoedema Therapy training (Level 1 & Level 2).

Group Exercise classes are held on Friday afternoons during school terms. The class involves mainly chair based exercises to improve lymphatic function. They include 45 mins of exercise and 30 minutes of education on a topic related to lymphoedema.

Locations

• Melton Health and Community Services (Green Building)

How do I get an appointment:

No need to go through My Aged Care for this service.

It is preferred to have a GP referral to access this service or contact 03 9747 7609 to arrange a self-referral.

For Further information, please call the Referral and Appointment Service on 03 9747 7609.