Whether you are at risk due to cancer treatment or managing a lifelong condition, our team of certified lymphedema therapists is here to help you take control of your health, restore comfort, and improve your quality of life. 

What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body due to a buildup of lymphatic fluid, most commonly in the arms, legs, chest, genitals or trunk. This happens when the lymphatic system is damaged or not functioning properly. Although it cannot be cured, early detection and proper treatment can significantly reduce symptoms and prevent progression. 

• Primary Lymphedema: A genetic or inherited condition resulting in malformations of the lymphatic system. It may appear at birth, during puberty, or later in life. It is most common to experience swelling in the legs, but it can progress into the genitals, trunk and arms in some cases.  

• Secondary Lymphedema: More common, this form occurs when the lymphatic system is damaged, often due to cancer treatment, surgery, radiation, infection, or trauma. Breast, ovarian, prostate, and colon cancer survivors are particularly at risk. Swelling can occur in any area in the body but will almost always appear in an area (or limb) that has had treatment directly to the lymph nodes, including their removal. 

Common Signs of Lymphedema

• Tightness in the skin 
• A sensation of fullness, heaviness or discomfort in a limb 
• Visible swelling in the hand, arm, leg, chest, or trunk 
• Tingling, numbness, or reduced flexibility 
• Clothes, sleeves, or jewelry feeling tighter than usual 

The early detection and treatment of lymphedema can help to improve or manage the condition and prevent it from progressing to an advanced stage. When it is detected early, lymphedema treatment is far less complex and costly than when the condition has progressed. Lower rates of secondary lymphedema have been found in people who exercise regularly and seek the advice of a lymphedema-certified therapist. 

Treating Lymphedema

We offer a full range of therapies designed to support the management of lymphedema, reduce symptoms, and prevent flare-ups including: 

• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): Gentle, rhythmic massage to stimulate lymph flow and reduce swelling. Lymphatic massage techniques can be completed by many of our practitioners, including Physiotherapists and Registered Massage Therapists. 
• Compression Therapy: Includes bandaging and/or custom-fit garments to reduce swelling and maintain the reduction. 
• Cold Laser Therapy: Targeted low-level laser treatment to reduce inflammation, decrease pain and encourage tissue healing. Not everyone is a candidate for laser therapy. 
• Exercise Prescription: Safe, guided movement and strengthening exercises to support lymphatic drainage. 
• Pre-Rehab & Post-Operative Assessments: Proactive care for those undergoing cancer-related surgeries. Includes baseline measurements and education on lymphedema risk reduction. 
• Ongoing Monitoring and Education: Learn how to monitor symptoms, care for your skin, and implement lifestyle strategies that support lymphatic health. 
• Nutritional Guidance: Our registered dietitian provides customized guidance and meal planning to help support swelling reduction and promote skin health.  
• Self-Care for Lymphedema: Our therapists will help you build a daily routine that includes skin care to prevent infections, gentle exercise for fluid movement, risk-reduction strategies (e.g., safe practices for injections, blood pressure, and skincare), education on signs of infection and when to seek help 

We believe that managing lymphedema shouldn't limit your lifestyle. Our goal is to empower you with the tools, knowledge, and support to live actively and comfortably.