Lymphoedema Awareness Month
This year, the Australian Lymphoedema Association is focusing it's attention during Lymphoedema Awareness Month to knowing the signs of lymphoedema. Accredited Practitioners will know only too well that many people do not have their lymphoedema diagnosed for some time, which can lead to the condition becoming quite advanced as well as having increased infections and other complications as a result.
With early diagnosis, assessment, intervention and treatment, this chronic condition can be more easily managed and the quality of life improved.
Barossa Lymphoedema Initiative
The Barossa Lymphoedema Initiative is about offering a specialised form of treatment for people who live in the Barossa and surrounding areas.
Based at different sites, Kellie Thomas and Gail Kirby are both qualified Remedial Massage Therapists’, specifically trained in the Dr Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) technique and are registered with the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA).
The incidence of lymphoedema is increasing and is a lifelong condition that with education can be self-managed. Whether it is congenital or due to surgery, radiation, tumour or trauma, MLD can effectively improve the lymph fluid flow by reducing swelling so that it can be more easily maintained.
To continue the effects of the MLD treatment, bandaging and compression garments are an important component of an individual treatment and care plan. Recent studies undertaken at the Flinders Medical Centre Lymphoedema Research Unit have shown that exercise and a deep breathing program are also beneficial to maintaining a healthy quality of life.
MLD supports and promotes lymph function and is a gentle, pain free treatment that can be used for the following conditions:
Primary & Secondary Lymphoedema
Lipoedema
Protein Fibrosis
Respiratory Conditions
Soft Tissue Injuries
Sinusitis
Migraine
Whiplash Injuries
Sciatica
Pre & Post Surgical applications
Scar Tissue
Many other diagnosed conditions
If you, or someone you know, is suffering from lymphoedema, Kellie and Gail can be contacted via their details below.
Kellie Thomas: Enhanced Ability
Nuriootpa Massage Clinic
17 Second Street, Nuriootpa, 5355
Ph: 0412 195 349
enhancedability@yahoo.com.au
Gail Kirby: The Cottage
37 Old Kapunda Road, Nuriootpa, 5355
MB: 0418 368 232
gailjkirby@gmail.com