Complete Decongestive Therapy
BCRL is progressive, so it is managed with Complete Decongestive Therapy, the internationally recognised gold standard treatment for lymphedema.
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- A gentle, specialised massage technique that moves lymphatic fluid through healthy pathways. It helps reduce swelling and relieve heaviness and tightness.
- Compression therapy
- Multiple layers of short-stretch bandages worn for almost 23 hours a day, repeated over 3 to 4 weeks. Once results are achieved, a compression garment is prescribed to maintain them.
- Decongestive exercises
- Gentle, controlled movements performed while wearing compression to improve muscle pump function, mobility, and flexibility.
- Skin care
- Cleansing, moisturising, protecting the skin from injury, and recognising early signs of infection such as cellulitis.
- Education and self-management
- Practical guidance on compression, exercise, skin care, travel precautions, weight management, and warning signs, so you can maintain your results.