The Lymphoedema Clinic began in 2004 and treatments are carried out by specialist nurses and therapists over 3 days each week.

The lymphatic system drains fluid that surrounds cells within the skin, back into the general circulation through a network of channels and nodes. These can become blocked if they are damaged by trauma, disease, surgery or radiotherapy and the result will be swelling in the tissues (secondary lymphoedema).

Any part of the body can be affected, although it is most common in the arms and legs. The swelling causes uncomfortable feelings of tightness and heaviness and can severely affect quality of life. Part of the treatment is the process of manual lymphatic drainage. This is a very gentle and relaxing face and body treatment carried out by trained therapists. It is achieved through gentle, rhythmical circling movements that stimulate the removal of the fluid and allow it to drain back into the lymphatic system. For further information about lymphoedema services, please telephone 01724 270835.

There is also a Lymphoedema Support Group, open to anyone with Lymphoedema, which runs from 12 noon until 2pm. Call 01724 854907 for further information and to register.