Oedema is an umbrella term that refers to swelling caused by fluid buildup in the body's tissues, often due to poor circulation or lymphatic system issues. Symptoms of oedema include;

• Swelling & puffiness,
• Skin changes; feels stretched, discolouration, texture changes
• Feelings of tightness or heaviness in the affected area,
• Clothes and jewellery feel tighter
• Higher risks of local infections. 

Several chronic venous conditions can lead to oedema, particularly in the lower limbs. Common conditions include:

• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) – When the veins struggle to return blood to the heart efficiently, causing fluid buildup in the tissues.
• Varicose Veins – Damaged vein valves allow blood to pool, increasing pressure and causing fluid leakage into surrounding tissues.
• Post-Thrombotic Syndrome – A long-term complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) where vein damage leads to persistent swelling and discomfort.

What is lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling, usually in the arms or legs, due to a malfunction or damage in the lymphatic system.

What causes lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema can be caused by genetic factors (primary lymphoedema) or external factors such as surgery, radiation, infection, or trauma (secondary lymphoedema).

What are the symptoms of lymphoedema?

Common symptoms include swelling, heaviness, tightness, discomfort, skin changes, and recurring infections in the affected area.

What is lipoedema?

Lipoedema is a chronic condition that primarily affects women, causing disproportionate fat accumulation in the legs and, sometimes, arms bilaterally. It can lead to pain, tenderness, and easy bruising in the affected areas. Cuffing at the ankles is a common sign of lipoedema. Treatment includes;

• Compression and MLD to improve comfort, pain and mobility,
• Exercise,
• Diet,
• Skin care
• Surgical options.  

Treatment often includes:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage – A specialised technique to move lymph fluid through the body.
• Compression therapy – Helps to control swelling and prevent oedematous complications.
• Exercise – Movement aids fluid drainage and prevents stiffness.
• Skincare – Essential to prevent infections and maintain skin integrity.
• Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (SIPC) therapy – Use of a device to enhance lymphatic drainage.

There is currently no cure, but effective management can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

What is manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)?

MLD is a specialised massage technique that stimulates lymph flow and helps reduce swelling.

What is sequential intermittent pneumatic compression (SIPC) therapy?

SIPC is a mechanical therapy using a pump and sleeve that covers the affected limb(s). The pump delivers rhythmic, graduated pressure to enhance lymphatic drainage, mimicking manual lymphatic drainage therapy. SIPC devices can be used in therapist rooms or at home as a daily tool.

Compression garments help manage swelling by improving circulation and supporting lymphatic drainage—reducing fluid accumulation. They also:

• Assist with wound healing.
• Prevent conditions like DVT, cellulitis, and ulcers.
• Improve skin integrity and tissue health, reducing discomfort.

Most people with oedema benefit from compression garments to maintain fluid balance. Your therapist will measure and recommend the right type and level of compression for you.

If you struggle to put on compression stockings, a wide range of tools called donning devices are available. Your therapist can assist you in finding the tools that work best for you. You can find our range of donning devices on our website.

Your garments come with an information guide detailing care instructions. We recommend following the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain longevity.

Your initial appointment includes a comprehensive assessment, where your therapist will:

• Obtain a detailed medical history, including current medications and oedema history.
• Conduct a physical examination of the affected areas.
• Discuss treatment options and compression garment recommendations.

We recommend wearing clothing that allows easy access to the affected areas. Measurements may be taken during the appointment, though custom measurements require a separate visit. Some garments may need to be specially ordered, which can take 2 to 4 weeks.

Loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the affected limb(s) for assessment and measurement.

To facilitate a thorough assessment, please bring:

• A current list of medications.
• A brief medical history.
• Any previous compression garments.
• Any donning aids you use at home.
• Relevant funding information (NDIS, Home Care Packages, etc.).

No referral is required to access our services; self-referrals are welcome.

The number of sessions varies. Some clients need frequent therapy at first and transition to long-term maintenance, while others may only need a few initial consults followed by 6-monthly reviews. Your therapist will guide you on the best plan for your case..

Our therapist provides the following treatments:

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage
• Compression prescription
• Sequential Intermittent Pneumatic Compression (SIPC) trials and referrals
• Education

There are several funding sources available to assist with the costs of our services and the associated compression consumables:

• Home Care Package/Support at Home Package – You may be able to see our lymphoedema therapist under a Home Care Package (HCP)/ Support at Home Package if the service is deemed necessary for your care needs.. These packages fund services that support ageing-related health needs, including clinical care. Speak with your care coordinator to determine funding capacity for therapy and compression garments.
• NDIS – If lymphoedema significantly impacts daily life, patients may qualify for NDIS funding to cover therapy and contribute to the cost of compression garments.
• Private Health Insurance – Some private health funds offer rebates for lymphoedema therapy and/or garments. Coverage depends on your specific health plan. Contact your health insurer to check your entitlements.
• GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) – Medicare provides rebates for up to five allied health services per calendar year under this plan. These rebates cover part of the cost of appointments. Clients should consult their GP to determine eligibility and create a care plan. A GP referral is required before accessing subsidies under this plan.

Our fee schedule is available on our website. Appointment costs are based on their duration, ensuring you receive the time and care you need. If you require a longer session, we recommend booking an extended consultation. Should your appointment exceed the scheduled time, fees will be adjusted accordingly to reflect the additional care provided. 

We are here to help. You can book your appointment online or call the pharmacy at 07 3355 3052, and we’ll be happy to assist you. For your first visit, we’ll start with an Initial Assessment to ensure we understand your needs and can provide the best care possible