Lymphoedema as defined by the O.M.S. is a chronic, developmental, disabling condition due to an interruption of lymphatic flow. Lymphoedema is defined as primary when it occurs at birth, in adolescence or after the age of 30. Secondary lymphoedema develops either after removal of lymph nodes following oncological disease or due to functional causes such as algoneurodystrophies, following radiotherapy or due to infectious causes, etc.

Complex decongestant treatment is the mainstay of therapy. The key treatments are:

• DLM (Manual Lymphatic Drainage)
• Bandage
• Isotonic Exercises
• Cleaning and care of the skin (mycosis, papillomatosis)

The Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a massage technique that has the task of facilitating the reabsorption of interstitial liquids through a draining, decongesting and analgesic action. DLM is a manual massage that does not cause pain and does not involve the use of creams or oils.

The bandage elasto-compressivefollowed by the prescription of a brace, is the cornerstone of lymphoedema treatment and should be combined with appropriate exercise in order to achieve maximum reabsorption of both the water and protein components of the oedema. The materials used for the bandage and the techniques with which a bandage is made are chosen by the physiotherapist according to the type of patient.

The use of a device called Linforrol allows real-time measurement of pressure applied to tissues and meets the need to make Manual Lymphatic Drainage objective and repeatable.