Support at last

[Dipper]

Ten years ago I was diagnosed with primary lymphoedema at the time I was given information, a short loan of a flowtron machine and told to lose weight. I did not seek medical advice again until a few months ago. I generally manage my swollen legs buy using a bath mitt and massaging from the foot up in my bath every day to get rid of the fluid. I then moisturise the skin on my legs again working from the feet up.

Today I had an appointment with physiotherapy as I had asked for a referral because everyday I need to take painkillers as the pain is so bad. I have lost two and a half stone and I am determined to improve my mobility. I was given compression stockings today and I can honestly say that my legs already feel supported and so much better. I will continue to do the things I already do but at last I feel as though I have been given some support. My next appointment is in two weeks where the physio is going to show me some massage techniques. I now feel positive and hope that I can improve my mobility.

[Lymparmy]

Well done for looking after yourself so well. Whilst the physio is helpful I would urge you to see an MLD practitioner as the massage technique for lymphoedema is different to normal massage. You see it on u-tube being done and it's helpful. I'm pleased you feel better, it's a funny old road with this condition. Very much having to help yourself and, thankfully there are people who cross your path who can help you along. Good luck

[dnj1234 in reply to Lymparmy]

Hi Lymparmy. could you tell me what a MLD practitioner is? also can anyone give me ideas on how to best reduce and keep the weight off. For 10 years I have struggled. I managed to lose a little then it becomes stable and no more is list. Also my feet have started swelling more since the doctor put me back on diuretics. Any help or advice would be welcome

[tiffany9]

Keep going with the losing weight and MLD from a practitioner. It has made a huge difference to me even if it is a constant struggle not to put weight on.

[Dipper in reply to tiffany9]

Thanks Tiffany, I am really motivated to lose weight at the moment and I'm actually finding it quite easy - long may it continue.

[tiffany9 in reply to Dipper]

Well done Dipper, stay with it. It has meant for me that my knees no longer hurt, never mind just generally. I have learnt the hard way though that you need to monitor your weight daily for at least a year or it starts to go back on. I have an acquired half stone to get off again....

Do you have a private MLD practitioner near you?

Regards

Tiffany

[Dipper in reply to tiffany9]

Hi Tiffany great that you are managing your weight. I haven't tried MLD yet but I do plan to look into it. It is nice to hear that your knees no longer hurt, that's what I am aiming for.

[Bev-1966]

Hi Dipper, I was told I had to apply cream starting at the top of thigh in sections with upward stoke to ankle then smooth downwards from top to bottom in the direction to hair growth so you are getting cream in all the hair follicles then do my feet.

[Dipper]

Thanks Bev I will give that a go. I currently just start at my foot and work up the way.

[Bev-1966 in reply to Dipper]

Well either way just smooth downwards after applying upwards.