Lymphoedema Treatment Melbourne

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Lymphoedema is a condition characterised by swelling that can affect any body part due to the accumulation of lymph fluid. This can happen when the lymphatic system, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports the immune system, is not functioning properly.

At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, we provide specialised lymphoedema treatment services in Fitzroy North, supporting patients across Melbourne with personalised, evidence-based care.

What can cause a Lymphoedema?

There are a series of reasons why someone can develop Lymphoedema. This presentation could have a genetic component, where the lymphatic system didn’t form properly. That’s what we refer to as Primary Lymphoedema, a mono-lateral swelling (at the leg, most often) that start distal and moves proximally (it start lower and move up).

On the other hand, infections, surgeries, specifically cancer removal, and related radiotherapy can lead to the formation of Lymphoedema and in this case, we would call it a Secondary Lymphoedema compared to the primary one, the swelling would start proximal and move distally (start at upper move lower). That said, any oedema that lasts longer than 12 months can be classified as Lymphoedema.

To know more about how Giovanni can assist you with your Lymphoedema, book a 15 minutes free phone consultation.

The skin’s characteristic of Lymphoedema

The skin in a Lymphoedema has several distinguished characteristics, and based on the typology, primary or secondary, and the time passed since the initial swelling, they may vary case by case.

The skin would initially get rigid, and an accumulation of fibery tissue could occur between the skin and the muscle layer. Along with the rigidity of the skin, there are the dangers of abrasions, which, given the rich protein fluid sitting in the edema, could get easily infected.

When the presentation reaches more advanced stages, and this is again, a case-by-case presentation, we can observe Hyperkeratosis, Epidermal papillomatosis and hyperplasia or Telangiectasia. In some cases, before any hands-on therapy and or compression can be applied, antibiotic therapy has to be prioritised, especially if infections are already manifesting.

In order to differentiate the different presentations of a Lymphoedema, here is a simplification of the different stages:

Stage 0: No visible swelling, but abnormal lymphatic transport detected (e.g., via lymphoscintigraphy).
Stage 1: Early edema that improves with limb elevation.
Stage 2: Persistent pitting edema that does not resolve with elevation.
Stage 3: Fibroadipose tissue deposition and skin changes occur.

Lymphoedema Therapy in Melbourne

At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, in Fitzroy North, Giovanni would ensure the best of care for his patients by offering tailored treatment that best metch each individual Lymphodema presentation. Giovanni did his training with the Vodder Academy, the world leader institute for lymphatic drainage and CDT therapy.

Lymphoedema management can be divided into acute care and extended care.

For acute care, Giovanni refers to swelling reduction, which would be achieved initially by Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatment and Combine Decongestive Therapy (CDT), movement therapy and breathing exercises.

MLD is a hands-on treatment that can boost the movement of fluid, and CDT is a bandaging technique that would ensure constant pressure in the limb/s affected. To obtain the quickest limb size reduction, a series of daily sessions would be needed. You will receive guidance about the treatment plan along your first face to face visit from a Certified Lymphoedema Therapist. In between the visits, you will be instructed by Giovanni on movement therapy and breathing exercises that you can do to keep improving the presentation on your own time.

Past the severe swelling, we step into extended care, which aims to minimize the risk of the return of swelling. Part of the extended care includes, still movement therapy, tailored diet, skincare, and garment wear with occasional MLD session and CDT bandaging. Along with those, Giovanni can keep assist you with MLD, CDT, movement therapy, garment wear recommendations, and skin care. Still, he will gladly refer you elsewhere for services that step out of his duties, such as diet advice.

Prescriptions and cross referral with GP or other practitioners

When a lymphoedema is present, as already mentioned above, we have to be aware of the risk related to it, such as ulcers, infections, or underlying causes. The 15 min free phone call is an opportunity to start knowing how Giovanni, one of our experienced lymphoedema specialists can help you, based on your personal and close family medical history, and this time would allow you and Giovanni to understand if a referral from your GP or other practitioner is needed to proceed with the treatment, or if other interventions need to be prioritized before any Manual Lymphatic Drainage, or Bandaging are applicable.

What would be like my Lymphodema first session?

The initial face-to-face consultation for Lymphodema treatment at Melbourne Massage and Treatment is 90 minutes.

This appointment would give you and Giovanni the opportunity to revise your personal and close family medical history to evaluate in more detail the treatment plan needed to proceed with the Lymphoedema management.

Once the revised medical history is completed, objective measurement follows to draw a baseline for your presentation.

Then it is time to pass to hands-on treatment with Manual Lymphatic Drainage, where needed and possible mobilization, to improve joint mobility, which is essential to keep you mobile and functioning.

Lymphoedema Therapy Cost

90-minute initial consultation: $190 - GST Incl.
Initial consultations include a full personal and close family history review, subjective and objective evaluation (Lymphoedema measurements included), MLD treatment, and, if time allows bandaging.
60-minute return: $145 - GST Incl.
Along with follow-up appointments, we would start with feedback on the previous treatment, a quick review of the subjective presentation, hands-on treatment (MLD) and bandaging. The bandaging would need to stay till the next day, and for the best result, just before coming to the clinic, you will remove it, shower yourself, and attend the follow-up. Bandages have to be rolled up and ready to go to ensure that Giovanni has all the time needed to look after you.

Lymphoedema Private Health Insurance and NDIS

At Melbourne Massage and Treatment, you can get a private health insurance rebate for Remedial Massage and Myotherapy, which would also cover your Lymphoedema Therapy. The rebate percentage may vary based on your contract with your private health insurance. If your’re looking for a Lymphoedema Specialist in Melbourne, Giovanni offers expert care tailored to your conditon. He also offers services as an unregistered NDSI provider, so you can claim Giovanni’s services if you are on an NDSI plan.

Overview of Lymphoedema therapy

To overcome the lymphoedema presentation, it is essential to stimulate that part of the lymphatic system that is still intact and operative. Indeed, Lymphoedema is a condition that is present due to a failure of the lymphatic system.

Therefore, the first step in Lymphoedema therapy is a detailed Clinical History:

Were you born with Lymphoedema?
Did the lymphoedema start post-surgery or as a skin infection?
Where and when was the surgery done?
Were there any lymph nodes removed?
Did you receive radiotherapy? If yes, where in the body?
If the lymphoedema started after an infection, where did the infection spread?
Any clinical history of injury to the collarbone area?
And more detailed information…
All that information can help us understand where the lymphatic system is interrupted and where we need to focus on hands-on treatment, MLD, to redirect fluid.

In case of an initial consultation, measurements of the limb would be taken.

How do MLD and CDT treatments work?

After a detailed clinical history, we can recommend Lymphoedema management with MLD and CDT.

An MLD treatment would always start at the cervical area by applying gentle and repetitive movement to the skin of the neck and around the collarbone.
From there, we would move towards the area affected by Lymphoedema.
Based on your presentation, there may be lighter or stronger pressure to be used.
You will always be guided on why certain pressure or strokes are needed and why certain areas of the body may need to be exposed, including the breast. This is common with both leg and arm lymphoedema.
Once the MLD treatment is delivered, we will apply the bandaging, also known as Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
With this technique, we can ensure that pressure is maintained on the area while the alternative pathway of the Lymphatic System is active.
At best, every 24 to 48 hours, the compression needs to be removed, washed, and reapplied. This process can ensure that we are reducing the swelling in the area once and for all, and it is just after that that we are going to look into applying a garment fitting.

Take Now a Risk-Assessment Secondary Lymphoedema Questionnaire

These guides are designed as an educational aid based on experience, with no evidence in the literature.
Once you submit the answer, you will receive a copy of the questionnaire within 24 hours for your records.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with Giovanni now.

Lymphoedema is under control; what's next?

State Wide Equipment Program (SWEP)

Here at Melbourne Massage and Treatment in Fitzroy North, I am subscribed to the SWEP program, which means I can help you access funds for your garment wear.
Swep is available for Victorian residents, who are suffering from a chronic condition, like lymphoedema, and can't access any private healht insurance rebate for their garment and are not resident in a residential care facility.
Lastly, the you have not been discharged from a public hospital or extended care centre within the last 30 days
You can read more about SWEP pogram in this blog of mine.

Lymphoedema Management Testimonial

Giovanni is the best of the best! I’ve had training in the lymphoedema field myself, it’s very technical and really an emerging field.

Because of this, there aren’t many knowledgeable practitioners. I’ve tried quite a few.

Apart from being knowledgeable in Lymphoedema, he has a great skill set in lipoedema, another field that isn’t well understood and has a terrible impact on patients' lives.

I wholeheartedly recommend him!

Thanks, Giovanni, for your knowledge, your incredible support of your patients, and the passion you have for helping people out.

Giovanni is the best of the best! I’ve had training in the lymphoedema field myself, it’s very technical and really an emerging field.

Because of this, there aren’t many knowledgeable practitioners. I’ve tried quite a few.

Apart from being knowledgeable in Lymphoedema, he has a great skill set in lipoedema, another field that isn’t well understood and has a terrible impact on patients' lives.

I wholeheartedly recommend him!

Thanks, Giovanni, for your knowledge, your incredible support of your patients, and the passion you have for helping people out.

Giovanni's Qualifications

My experience with Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) started back in November 2021, when I completed a certificate in Applied MLD, which is a Vodder Academy certification, where I learned to work with patients presenting with an intact lymphatic system.

In October 2024, after completing the BCHs in Clinical Myotherapy, I undertook Certificate III with the Vodder Academy for Lymphoedema and Lipoedema Management. During this course, I learned how to work with patients with a damaged lymphatic system, providing MLD and CDT therapy.

Professional Affiliations

Since completing my Lymphoedema certification, I joined the ALA (Australian Lymphology Association) and BCNA (Breast Cancer Network Australia). You can find my contact details for Lymphoedema services on both platforms.

Common Symptoms of Lymphoedema

Swelling

The swelling can appear anytime through your Lymphoedema journey. You may experience difficulties in wearing clothing, shoes, or jewellery as that limb it may feel tighter than usual.

Heaviness or Tightness

A persistent sensation of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb, which can be uncomfortable and restrictive.

Pitting Edema

Pitting edema refer to the indentation left behind by pressure applied to the limb. This is also a test used in clinical setting to verify the presence of Lymphoedema.

Restricted Movement

Given the swelling and the puffiness of the limb, you may experience restriction in movement. Lack of movement can make the presentation worsening.

Skin Changes

The body can't hold back the swelling, especially if it does happen suddenly. That's where the skin over the swollen area may start feeling tight, and in some cases, may become thicker (fibrosis) or develop a leathery texture. Keep the skin intact, and moist is indeed highly recommended.

Aching or Discomfort

While Lymphoedema is not always associate to pain, you may can experience general discomfort or aching in the swollen area, which may worsen with prolonged use or at the end of the day. And the longer you leave the Lymphoedema unattended from care, the worst the feeling may gets.

Recurring Infections

The area affected by Lymphoedema may be more susceptible to infections, such as cellulitis, due to impaired lymphatic system and the reach proteic-fluid left below the skin, which is a good environment for pathogen to growth and spread. That's where keeping the skin moist and intact is really important.

All the symptoms listed above can vary in intensity and may develop gradually. Therefore, early detection and intervention are key to effectively managing lymphoedema.

If you notice any of these signs, get in touch now for an assessment and to discuss appropriate management strategies.

Exercises for Lymphoedema

Why Exercise Matters

Lymph fluid is moved around the body via the pumping action of its own capillaries and collecting structures, and muscle contraction can stimulate the lymphatic system to work as much as double its regular capacity. Therefore, exercise supports this movement, encouraging lymph drainage and reducing stagnation. That’s why, as a Lymphoedema specialist and clinical myotherapist, I highly recommend targeted physical activity as part of an individual’s care plan to promote lymph circulation and support long-term management. For someone who suffers from Lymphoedema, the exercises we aim for can also be simple leg or arm movements performed in a seated position. They don’t necessarily involve hard cardio or heavy strength. That said, any movement is better than no movement. And let’s not forget that exercises would also strengthen the surrounding muscles, support joint mobility, and improve overall well-being.
That’s why my saying goes by, “Move More, Live Well!”

Recommended Types of Exercises

Based on the severity of your Lymphoedema, we will determine which exercises are best for you. But in most cases, we would look at low-impact exercises to promote muscle contraction without overloading the limb.

These include:

Deep breathing techniques

Diaphragmatic breathing encourages lymph flow from the abdomen and chest. This type of breathing can be accompanied by self-MLD. I will be teaching you how to.

Gentle stretching and flexibility movements

To stimulate the deep portion of you Lymphatic System, we will focus on mobility drill, to relieve tightness, especially after surgery or radiation therapy.

Resistance training with light weights or bands

When and where you will be comfortable with using resistance bends, this would be a great step towards some form of strength training on top of great lymphatic system stimulation. The introduction of resistance exercises would be done progressively. And here, is where Kinetic Link Training (KLT) would be a great way of training.

Aerobic activity

Exercises such as walking, cycling, and swimming are all effective in boosting circulation and lymph flow. But when looking at this form of exercises, safety comes always first.

Aquatic therapy

Being in water, and moving in water can help with promoting lymph movement, making pool-based exercise an excellent choice for someone who suffer from Lymphoedema, but skin integrity is mandatory, to avoid infection and development of cellulitis.

Exercise Tips for People with Lymphoedema

When doing movement, always wear prescribed compression garments, unless we advise you differently.
Progress your form of exercises, week by week, step by step.
If you notice that the swelling worsens rather than improves while you are doing exercises, or you feel pain or discomfort, stop there and seek assistance. I am a phone call away.
Good exercises are always followed by a good rest. Avoid repetitive strenuous activity with the affected limb, especially.

Long-Term Benefits

The long-term benefits of exercise are many, and it not only helps with the presentation of lymphoedema but also reduces the risk of complications, supports mental health, and fosters independence in daily activities. At Melbourne Massage Treatment, I believe exercise is most effective when guided by a certified lymphoedema therapist and combined with other evidence-based therapies. When integrated with treatments like manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, and proper skin care, exercise becomes an essential pillar of holistic lymphoedema care.

How to get to Fitzroy North, Lymphoedema Clinic

1/175 Holden St, Fitzroy North, 3068, VIC

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Yes, at Melbourne Massage and Treatment I do treat Lymphoedema presentations, via MLD and CDT therapy.

Lymphoedema can be caused by a genetic presentation (Primary Lymphoedema), where a person was born with a weak or not intact lymphatic system, or due to external causes (Secondary Lymphoedema), such as cancer surgery, severe skin infections, and severe physical accidents, which may damage the lymphatic system's functionality.

Due to other health factors, the life expectancy of someone with Lymphoedema can vary. Lymphoedema, on its own, if managed and kept under control, is not a cause of premature death. On the other hand, if left untreated, it can cause other conditions, such as severe infections, that can lead to severe illness and deteriorate an individual's health condition until death.

No, Lymphoedema is a chronic condition that cannot be reversed so far. It can be managed quite well if taken in its early stage and kept under control, but it cannot be completely reversed. Part of the management process can involve MLD and CDT therapy, but in some cases, also surgery.

Lymphoedema in its initial phase, if not coexisting with other conditions (such as Lipedema, skin infections, or others) is not a painful presentation. What you may experience in its initial phase is swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the limb and skin stretch. Some of the symptoms also include a change in temperature or sensation on the limb and lack of mobility of the joint/s affected.

Lymphoma and Lymphoedema are two separate conditions that can trigger the other. Specifically, Lymphoma is a cancer that affects the white cells of your immune system, called Lymphocytes, and if the cancer spreads too much, it can block the Lymphatic System. When the lymphatic system is blocked or damaged, Secondary Lymphoedema can develop.

Lymphoedema is diagnosed via an analysis of your clinical history and by excluding other conditions or factors that can lead to swelling of your limbs, such as DVT, varicose veins, or side effects from medications. A swelling that lasts for more than 12 months and has no other determined causations is considered Lymphoedema.

In a Lymphoedema clinic, we use tests like the Stemmer's sign and Pitting test as part of the diagnosis. The Stemmer sign consists of trying to pick the skin between the finger of the toes insertion. A positive test consists of the inability to grab the skin between the fingers of the therapist due to the patient skin being puffy and stretched out. The pitting test, as the name suggests, is about pressing on the affected area with the thumb, holding the pressure for about 60 seconds and seeing if an indentation is left behind. A positive test is due to an indentation left behind, with the skin taking minutes to recoil to the original status. Changes in the colour of the test site are also part of the evaluation.

A lymphoedema presentation is better addressed as soon as possible to avoid complications and side effects. At Melbourne Massage and Treatment we opt for Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Combine Decongestive Therapy (CDT) as Lymphoedema treatment options. MLD is a gentle non invasive manual technique that aim to boost your lymphatic system, and CDT is the application of bandaging to the limb to compress the affected area and keep stimulating the flow of lymphatic liquid away from the limb. Other treatment options include laser therapy if there is a need to break down fibrosis.

Yes, as Lymphoedema therapist who practice in Australia, I am subscribe to the ALA (Australasia Lymphology Association).

Yes, I do! Here at Melbourne Massage and Treatment, I can help you process your SWEP application. This would help you reduce the cost of garments.

Lymphoedema Treatment Melbourne

What can cause a Lymphoedema?

The skin’s characteristic of Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema Therapy in Melbourne

Prescriptions and cross referral with GP or other practitioners

What would be like my Lymphodema first session?

Lymphoedema Therapy Cost

Lymphoedema Private Health Insurance and NDIS

Overview of Lymphoedema therapy

How do MLD and CDT treatments work?

Take Now a Risk-Assessment Secondary Lymphoedema Questionnaire

Lymphoedema is under control; what's next?

State Wide Equipment Program (SWEP)

Lymphoedema Management Testimonial

Giovanni's Qualifications

Professional Affiliations

Common Symptoms of Lymphoedema

Swelling

Heaviness or Tightness

Pitting Edema

Restricted Movement

Skin Changes

Aching or Discomfort

Recurring Infections

Exercises for Lymphoedema

Why Exercise Matters

Recommended Types of Exercises

Deep breathing techniques

Gentle stretching and flexibility movements

Resistance training with light weights or bands

Aerobic activity

Aquatic therapy

Exercise Tips for People with Lymphoedema

Long-Term Benefits

How to get to Fitzroy North, Lymphoedema Clinic

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do you treat Lymphoedema presentations?

What are the causes of lymphoedema?

What is the life expectancy of someone with lymphoedema?

Will lymphoedema ever go away?

What does lymphoedema pain feel like?

What is the difference between Lymphoma and Lymphoedema?

How is Lymphoedema diagnosed?

What tests are performed in a Lymphoedema Clinic?

How is Lymphoedema treated?

Are you subscribed to the ALA (Australasia Lymphology Association)?

Do you offer support with SWEP garment funding?

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Arm Lymphoedema Quiz

Arm Lymphoedema Quiz

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Lipodema Quiz

Lipoedema Questionnaire

Reference list

Leg Lymphoedema Quiz

Leg Lymphoedema Quiz

OTHER PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ADD TO RISK

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Arm Lymphoedema Quiz

OTHER PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ADD TO RISK

What to do now?

Leg Lymphoedema Quiz

OTHER PROBLEMS WHICH MAY ADD TO RISK

What to do now?