Please consult your doctor immediately. You may require medication and special dressings. It would be helpful to consult a lymphoedema therapist (Find a therapist) and a wound-care specialist to manage the condition in the long term.

Please consult your doctor and palliative care nurse who can advise you on effective pain management.  A lymphoedema therapist (Find a therapist) can also assess you to manage/relieve your specific symptoms.

Please talk to your therapist and consult with your medical aid directly who can advise you further.

YES!
Whether it is your arm or your legs that are bandaged it is up to your discretion if you feel comfortable and safe to drive while being bandaged. Make sure to wear shoes that fit you and are secured well and not falling off.

YES!
Of course you can still take a shower or bath while you are coming for therapy and being bandaged, however, you will need to keep the bandages dry! You can purchase a device-cast protector which will cover your bandages well and keep you dry while you shower or bathe. Some people choose to sponge bathe while in treatment.

NO!
Most people have NO pain while going through CDT treatment. MLD therapy is a very light touch and a very relaxing treatment. The bandaging does NOT hurt; however, when first applied they will and should feel snug. After doing the required exercises the bandages stretch out and you will be more comfortable. Therefore, it is crucial that you do your exercises daily, especially right after you have been bandaged. Also, it is crucial that you drink plenty of water and limit your sodium intake to 2000 mgs per day.

NO!
With the education you receive you will be well informed about your swelling condition. There is NO CURE, but your swelling will be reduced and you will be taught what you need to do for yourself at home to keep the swelling under control. With proper education and maintenance you will keep the swelling down long term and be healthier in the long run!

YES!
MLD is very different from regular massage because it is not deep or heavy pressure but a very light skin touch technique. MLD is a very slow, light and rhythmic stretching of the skin in circular movements with a stretching and relaxation phase.

NO!
Depending on the severity of the Lymphoedema condition, some people do require daily treatment; however, once progress is made in treatment, then the frequency is reduced until goals are met. Every person’s situation varies.

YES!
MLD/CDT should not interfere with any other therapies. Be sure to check with your medical aid to make sure they will cover more than one therapy at a time.

YES!
You will be able to apply your compression garments independently once your swelling has been reduced. Your therapist will educate you and provide you with the proper techniques and devices to help you apply your garments independently.