Your Well-Being Is in Good Hands
Tanya Haines
Registered Nurse & Lymphoedema Therapist.
Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective.
As a committed, professional Nurse and Lymphoedema Therapist in Kings Lynn, West Norfolk, your well-being is my number one priority.
I am happy to guide you through all of your individual needs with the attention and care you deserve.
All About Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Tanya Haines
Fully Trained as an FG-MLD Therapist
from the
Lymphoedema Training Academy.
​
This pioneering technique has been developed by Prof J P Belgrado (University of Brussels) following the imaging of over 1500 lymphatic systems. This had allowed identifying for the first time the usual lymphatic pathways used following a pathology. Fluoroscopy also provides real-time images of the lymphatics allowing for us to see how to use our hands to move fluid better and ensure that we are carrying out an effective technique.
It is from the feedback of fluoroscopy that Prof. Belgrado has developed the new and researched based technique known as ‘Fill and Flush’.
The technique builds on existing knowledge but is devised with the most recent finding of anatomy, pathology and physiology.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a way of reducing swelling caused by fluid build up.
The aim of MLD is to move fluid from the swollen area into a place where the lymphatic system is working normally.
To do this, the specialist first uses specialised skin movements to clear the area that they want the fluid to drain into.
It might seem strange to have skin movements on your chest and neck if you have lymphoedema in your arm. But it means that the fluid has somewhere to drain to when the therapist treats your arm.
​
Examples of use;
​
-
Accelerate the healing process following cosmetic surgery.
-
Improve the ability of the body’s lymphatic system to cleanse from the inside out.
-
Alleviate swelling which may occur as a result of breast cancer treatment.
-
Stimulate and increase the rate of removal of waste products, toxins and excess fluid from the body’s tissues, for example during pregnancy.
Primary & Secondary Lymphoedema
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a long-term (chronic) condition that causes swelling in the body's tissues. It can affect any part of the body, but usually develops in the arms or legs.
It develops when the lymphatic system does not work properly. The lymphatic system is a network of channels and glands throughout the body that helps fight infection and remove excess fluid.
It's important that lymphoedema is identified and treated as soon as possible. If it is not treated, it can get worse.
Symptoms of Lymphoedema
The main symptom of lymphoedema is swelling in all or part of a limb or another part of the body. It can be difficult to fit into clothes, and jewellery and watches can feel tight.
At first, the swelling may come and go. It may get worse during the day and go down overnight. Without treatment, it will usually become more severe and persistent.
Other symptoms in an affected body part can include:
-
an aching, heavy feeling
-
difficulty with movement
-
repeated skin infections
-
hard, tight skin
-
folds developing in the skin
-
wart-like growths developing on the skin
-
fluid leaking through the skin
What causes Lymphoedema ?
Lymphoedema is caused by a problem with the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and glands spread throughout the body. The main functions of the lymphatic system are helping fight infection and draining excess fluid from tissues.
There are 2 main types of Lymphoedema:
-
Primary Lymphoedema
– caused by faulty genes that affect the development of the lymphatic system; it can develop at any age, but usually starts during infancy, adolescence, or early adulthood
-
Secondary Lymphoedema
– caused by damage to the lymphatic system or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system; it can be the result of a cancer treatment, an infection, injury, inflammation of the limb, or a lack of limb movement.
What are the elements of Lymphoedema management?
Decongestive Lymphoedema Therapy (DLT)
There are two phases~ Individual assessment determines your needs and recommendations made from the following;
Intensive – with your therapist which includes;
-
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
-
Multi-layer bandaging
-
Exercises
-
Skin Care
-
Weight management
​
Maintenance – self management which includes;
-
MLD is replaced by SLD (Simple Lymphatic Drainage)
-
Wearing compression garments
-
Self-bandaging, or use of Velcro wraps
-
Daily exercises
-
Skin Care
-
Weight management
Components of DLT
-
MLD:
MLD is the use of specific massage techniques which mobilise the skin and stimulate the lymphatic system. It facilitates lymph flow into the venous circulation utilising lymph vessels. MLD is found to be most effective when combined with compression bandaging.
-
Multi-layer bandaging:
in the intensive phase of treatment, bandaging is used to provide compression and support the reduction of oedema and sometimes restore the shape of the limb and reduce fibrosis. Bandaging is usually performed every day or alternate days for a minimum of two weeks until required oedema reduction or shape is achieved. If bandaging is required a holistic assessment will take place prior to implementation to agree achievable shared goals for treatment.
​
-
Exercises:
the aim is to enhance the efficiency of the muscle pump working against the compressive bandages. This will increase lymph circulation. Each patient is given individually tailored exercises suited to their particular requirements.
​
-
Skin care:
good skin care is essential in maintaining skin integrity and reduces the risk of infection. This will involve the use of emollients, monitoring for cuts and abrasions and prompt action at the first sign of infection.
-
Weight control/maintenance:
it is important to maintain a healthy weight. Lymphoedema can be exacerbated by being overweight as fat cells compress the lymphatics, reducing and impeding lymphatic flow. A detailed nutrition and weight loss plan should be followed before, during and after your intensive treatment.
​
-
Compression garments:
towards the end of the intensive phase, you will be measured for custom fit compression garments. During the maintenance phase, containment of your leg or arm is achieved through daily wearing of these garments. Any exercise should be done wearing your compression. These garments should be replaced every 4 – 6 months.
Services I Offer
Personalised Care and Guidance
Here For You
If you’re looking for quality Individual Therapy sessions with a certified Therapist that cares, then you’ve come to the right place.
I guide my patients every step of the way and implement various methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of their individual goals from the most simple to complex oedema support.
Schedule an appointment today and see what I can do for you.
A Happier, Healthier You
Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer professional advice and support and an encouraging a positive outlook.
I have the tools and professional experience to help you with your goals.
Useful Resources
At the Tip of Your Fingers
