Lymphoedema is a condition that occurs when there is damage to the bodys lymphatic system, resulting in large, and sometimes uncomfortable swelling.  It can affect any part of the body but is usually found in the arms or legs.

Lymphoedema can be described as primary or secondary:

Primary lymphoedema: usually determined from birth, and arises due to the underdevelopment or failure of the lymphatic system.

Secondary lymphoedema: where lymphatic failure is a result of damage to an otherwise normal lymphatic system, e.g. due to surgery, radiotherapy, infection (such as cellulitis), reduced mobility, trauma, obesity, problems with veins not working very well or cancer.

Whilst lymphoedema is not usually painful, the swelling can be extremely uncomfortable, and can affect a your mobility as well as your self-confidence. Swelling can appear anywhere on the body, but is most commonly found in the legs or arms, and can bring with it side effects such as skin infections, a feeling of heaviness, and folds developing in the skin.

A Lymphoedema diagnosis doesn't mean putting your life on hold. You'll partner with one of our specialist practitioners, and together you'll assess the cause of the swelling before working together to build an individually tailored treatment plan, giving you the best chance of improvement and aiding you in living a normal, active and independent life.  

Lymphoedema might not be curable, but with the correct treatment we can help to reduce any swelling and discomfort that you experience, so you can continue doing the things that you love.

Treatments include:

• The wearing of compression garments which put pressure on body tissues to reduce fluid build-up
• Lymphatic drainage, a skin moving technique similar to massage
• Exercises to aid the natural drainage of fluid
• Skin care to help moisturise and prevent infections

You'll work with our specialist team to build the knowledge you need to manage your condition at home. Taking charge of your own health can improve your wellbeing, increase independence and promote a better quality of life.

Together, we’ll practise exercises that you can then continue at home, and we’ll build a skin care regime that works for you.

If you need to, you'll attend regular appointments here at the clinic, where your Lymphoedema care partner will monitor your progress, offer advice and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan, supporting you as you take control. 

When you receive support from Compton Lymphoedema Care, you'll also have access to other support networks. We have connections with the Black Country Lymphoedema Support Network, and can signpost you to other groups and resources if you need. 

You're also invited to join us for regular coffee mornings, here in our onsite cafe. Meet with others in similar circumstances and chat in an informal, friendly, safe environment with support from our specialist staff.   

 See our events page for our next coffee morning.