Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema 2023
Helen Eason/Counterpart (VIC, 2023)
Learn about what lymphoedema is, the early warning signs, how to minimise the risk of developing lymphoedema and what to do if it develops. The impact of exercise and massage, as well as where to find assistance, are covered. Physiotherapist Helen Eason gives us a 2023 update.
(webinar)

Self-care for lymphoedema
Kate Rogers; Margaret/Counterpart (AUS, 2022)
A lymphoedema practitioner explains self-care strategies to help you manage lymphoedema, and a Counterpart Peer Support Volunteer shares her experience of managing her lymphoedema.
(webinar)

Lymphoedema
Helen Eason & Counterpart (AUS, 2021)
Physiotherapist Helen Eason explains what lymphoedema is, early warning signs, how to minimise the risk, and how to manage it if it develops.
 (webinar)

Find an ALA accredited practitioner
Australasian Lymphology Association (AUS)
Use this tool to find a health professional who can help you treat and manage lymphoedema, in a location near you. Explains the types of practitioners and allows you to search by location.
 (web page and search tool)

Lymphoedema: Survive and thrive: Leg
Australasian Lymphology Association (AUS, 2013)
This video empowers women with lymphoedema to understand their care needs and manage their condition themselves, as much as possible. Includes skin care, self massage, exercise and other patients’ experiences.
(YouTube video or DVD available from ALA, 40 mins)

Lymphoedema: what you need to know
Cancer Australia (AUS, 2023)
This 9-page booklet provides a good overview of lymphoedema, including signs to watch for, explanation of treatment, tips for self management, and questions you might want to ask your doctor.
  (booklet – PDF)

Lymphoedema handbook
Neil Piller & Maree O'Connor (AUS, 2006)
Although this book was published in 2006, it has been reviewed by a health professional with a good knowledge of lymphoedema, and most of the information is still relevant. This Australian book explains the lymphatic system, how and why lymphoedema occurs, and how it can be managed.
(book)

Lymphoedema
Macmillan Cancer Support (UK, 2018)
This page includes links to information on lymphoedema, its treatment and management. Remember that as this is a UK-based website, treatments and support services are not available to Australians.
 (web)

Top tips for self-management of lymphoedema
Macmillan Cancer Support (UK)
This booklet was developed as part of a project in Scotland in 2012, with input from people experiencing lymphoedema. It focuses on practical self-care and self-management.
  (35-page booklet in PDF format)

Living with gynaecological cancer part 2.3 – Physical aspects: Lymphoedema
Chris O’Brien Lifehouse (AUS, 2013)
Explanation of the risks for lymphoedema following gynaecological cancer. Includes comments from a young woman who has had cervical cancer discussing how she tries to minimise the risk, a gynaecological cancer nurse and social worker. YouTube sometimes suggests other videos on similar topics. Please be aware that these other videos have not been reviewed for the Navigator and may not be reputable.
 (YouTube video, 4mins 20 secs)

Reducing your risk of lymphedema of the legs
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (US, 2021)
Overview of lymphoedema: risk factors and how to avoid them, early signs to watch for, treatment and a video demonstrating some simple exercises. Remember that as this is a US-based website, the support service numbers provided are not available to Australians.
  (web page and video)