Lymphoedema support and care at Kardinia Health
Lymphoedema care at Kardinia Health in Geelong focuses on early identification, personalised management, and ongoing support for people living with this condition. Our team understands that lymphoedema can affect comfort, mobility, and overall well-being, which is why we take a collaborative approach to care.
At Kardinia Health, patients can access lymphoedema assessment and management through physiotherapist Jacqueline Bate. As an ALA-accredited lymphoedema therapist with a background in physiotherapy, Jacqueline is able to diagnose and treat both primary and secondary lymphoedema. She also provides care for lymphoedema and swelling caused by venous insufficiency, helping patients access tailored treatment based on their symptoms, health history, and goals.
Jacqueline is particularly dedicated to early intervention, with a focus on early detection and treatment wherever possible. Kardinia Health now offers assessment using bio-impedance spectroscopy (BIS) with the Sozo machine, which can help detect even small changes in tissue swelling. This technology provides a more sensitive way to monitor swelling and can offer greater accuracy than circumferential measurements alone.
Our team works closely with patients and their GP to ensure lymphoedema care is coordinated as part of their broader health plan. For some patients, this may include monitoring symptoms over time, referral to additional specialists if required, and providing practical advice to help manage the condition day to day.
Compression therapy is widely recognised as a gold standard treatment for lymphoedema and is also highly effective in managing lipoedema and venous insufficiency. It can even support venous wound healing in some cases. Jacqueline can assist with selecting and prescribing the most suitable compression option for each patient, whether that involves sleeves, wraps, or bandaging.
By offering lymphoedema services within a multidisciplinary health clinic, Kardinia Health aims to make it easier for people in Geelong to access the support and guidance they need to manage lymphoedema and maintain their quality of life.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot effectively drain fluid from the body’s tissues. This leads to swelling, most often in the arms or legs.
The condition may develop after cancer treatment, surgery, infection, injury, or due to inherited conditions affecting the lymphatic system. In some cases, lymphoedema develops gradually and may initially be mistaken for other causes of swelling.
What are the signs and symptoms of lymphoedema?
Common symptoms may include:
- Persistent swelling in an arm, leg, or other part of the body
- A feeling of heaviness, tightness, or discomfort
- Reduced flexibility or range of movement
- Skin changes or an increased risk of infection
If swelling does not resolve or continues to return, it is important to speak with a GP for further assessment.
How is lymphoedema diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically begins with a consultation with your GP. Your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and potential risk factors. Depending on your situation, further investigations or referral to a lymphoedema practitioner may be recommended.
At Kardinia Health, Jacqueline Bate can assess and diagnose lymphoedema, with early detection supported by BIS technology through the Sozo machine. This allows even subtle changes in tissue swelling to be identified early, helping guide timely treatment and management.
Book Your Appointment
If you are experiencing unexplained swelling or symptoms that may be linked to lymphoedema, booking an appointment with your GP or with Jacqueline Bate at Kardinia Health is an important first step towards diagnosis and care.
