Bandaging for lymphoedema is a recognised way to reducing the swelling of lymphoedema and lipoedema affected limbs. 

The bandage type used for this therapy is a special low stretch bandage. It is applied in layers to provide gradient compressive pressure from the most distal part of the limb to the part of the limb most proximal to the trunk

A course of compression bandaging normally take between 1-3 weeks. From 40%- 70% reductions of oedema are possible in many cases by this treatment method. 

The book  'Practical steps for lymphoedema bandaging'  is available from this website. The book shows and explains the steps for bandaging an arm or leg for lymphoedema and/or lipoedema

Many people are able to help another person with bandaging. You do not need be a nurse or other professional to put bandages on a patients arm or leg. To start all you need know is how to do it, what to use and where to get it from. Once you know this and make a start you will get better with practice.  

Always, before you start to bandage, consult with a doctor or suitably qualified person that bandaging is a suitable therapy for you. If this therapy is contra-indicated do not proceed.

What is lymphoedma Bandaging?

Lymphoedema bandaging is a special way of applying bandages to a lymphoedma affected limb which can help break up fibrotic tissues which further entrap fluid. Bandaging also provides a medium to assist the body's lymphatic system to pump out excess proteins trapped in body tissues.  Trapped excess protein in body tissues cause the fluid retention and swelling of lymphoedema. 

When a course of bandaging is completed a patient needs to wear well fitted compression garments. Compression garments worn after a course of bandaging help stop the limb returning back to it's more swollen state.

Always obtain a doctors (or suitably qualified persons) advice that bandaging is allowed and suitable for the patient before lymphoedema bandaging is commenced. Bandaging is not suitable for all persons and can be dangerous under some circumstances. 

Bandaging for lymphoedema is designed to;

• make a lymphoedema affected limb smaller 

• break down/reduce fibrotic tissue 

• increase tissue oxygenation

• stimulate lymphatic flow

At minimum self massage immediately prior to bandaging is always indicated to assist therapy results.

Who would benefit from lymphoedema bandaging?

Any person with lymphoedema who is not contra indicated for bandaging can be helped to control their condition using gradient compressive bandaging as a therapy. 

People approaching, or with a grade two or higher lymphoedema are prime candidates for bandaging for lymphoedema. 

Grade 2 lymphoedema is a condition that has much excess fibrous tissue contained within the affected limb. If the skin is pressed hard with the end of a finger it does not indent or 'pit', this would indicate  a component of grade 2 lymphoedema. Other indications are; Little or no reduction to the swelling or oedema by elevation of the limb, even if the limb is elevated and rested in bed overnight or for 2-3 days. And/or: the limb gradually 'hardens' because of the excess fibrous (scar) tissue due to chronic inflammation. 

The bandaging for this type of lymphoedema is a special 'low stretch' type of bandage applied to a lymphoedema affected limb. It will help reduce the size, hardness and discoloration of the affected part. 

To ensure bandaging does not cause problems elsewhere it is good practice to have performed self massage prior to bandaging. This ensures fluid removed from an affected limb has a place to go to and will not then overload an adjacent area.

Always obtain a doctors or suitably qualified persons advice that bandaging is allowed and suitable for the patient before lymphoedema bandaging is commenced. Bandaging is not suitable for all persons and can be dangerous under some circumstances.

The book showing practical steps for lymphoedema and lipoedema bandaging is a available at http://www.lymph.com.au/category22_1.htm or contact julietgeorge@lymph.com.au for more information.

Last update 30/4/10

The book  'Practical steps for lymphoedema bandaging'  (RRP $35.00) is available now from this website. It shows the steps in a sequential easy to follow format with pictures and written instruction for bandaging an arm or a leg for lymphoedema.