What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is the result of disruption in the lymphatic system, resulting in obstructed lymphatic flow, enlarged and disfigured limbs, pain, and susceptibility to infection. Lymphedema often limits the lifestyle of the patient. Unfortunately there is no cure for lymphedema. However Macdonald's Prescriptions can offer a treatment that improves the quality of life for primary or secondary lymphedema patients.



The Lympha Press ®

The Lympha Press ® multicompartmental pressure system offers a distinct advantage over unicompartmental pressure systems, often used in the treatment of lymphedema. Using physiological principles, pressure is established from the distal area of the Lympha Press® Sleeve and progresses until the entire sleeve is sequentially inflated. When the entire sleeve is filled with air, all the cells automatically empty themselves, and the cycle begins again.

Please click for more information on the Lympha Press ®

The Lympha Press was first introduced to the province of British Columbia in 1987 at the B.C. Cancer Control Agency. To date, many hospitals and clinics in B.C. have them. Since 1997, Macdonald's Prescriptions has been the main distributor of the Lympha Press ®. In 2005, a third model was introduced, the Lympha Press Plus, which is fully programmable and is used in-store for our patient pump therapy sessions. 

Lymphedema is something you are born with (primary) or due to some trauma, like surgery, radiation, injury etc. (secondary). There is help for both kinds. One part of the treatment is the pump and is only used after you have been assessed by a physician. The other parts of treatment include instruction in skin care, exercises specifically for lymphedema, lymphatic massage, and often wearing of a special elastic compression sleeve or stocking.

Lymphedema is a condition that should not be left untreated. The fluid build up in an arm or leg is not simply water. It is a protein rich fluid with fibrous qualities that the body uses to repair itself with. But when it is in the wrong place, for example around a joint, it can harden and make it difficult for the joint to move.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the above information, we would be pleased to meet or talk with you. Please call us at 604-872-5496 or email us for further information.