I have lymphoedema in my left leg and saw the doctor this morning. I wear a compression stocking. She agreed a massage machine would help reduce the swelling, but couldn't advise me what kind to get. Could you? I walk every day to try and help it.
I have lymphoedema in my left leg and saw the doctor this morning. I wear a compression stocking. She agreed a massage machine would help reduce the swelling, but couldn't advise me what kind to get. Could you? I walk every day to try and help it.
Dear NannyAnny
Thank you for getting in touch with us, and welcome to our online community. My name is Annerose I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurses here at the Macmillan Cancer Support line.
Having lymphoedema can have a big impact on your daily activities, it is understandable for you to seek ways to support and manage this.
Unfortunately, just as your GP, we are not able to recommend any specific equipment for the management of Lymphoedema.
However, we do have information on how to treat and manage Lymphoedema. Compression garments, exercises and keeping active, and skin care are a big part of managing Lymphoedema. I can see you are going for a walk every day and I hope you feel it is helpful.
Other ways to manage this is by Lymphatic drainage. This should always be done by a trained professional Lymphoedema specialist. However, they can also teach you a technique for Simple Lymphatic Drainage (SLD), which you can do at home.
You can ask your GP to refer you to a Lymphoedema service for support and advise on this.
The Lymphoedema Support Network has information on self-management of lymphoedema and SLD, it might be useful for you to have a look on their website.
I hope this has been helpful, but please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need any further information or support.
Best wishes and take care,
Annerose (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
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