Lymphedema & Lipedema
Lymphedema is a condition in which part of the body's lymphatic system doesn't work properly. Our bodies contain a lymphatic system who's job it is to drain a watery fluid called lymph, from the body, keep everything in balance and help keep infections away. Along the path of the lymphatic system are lymph nodes which create diverging pathways. When the system becomes interrupted, this can cause a back-up of fluids, creating swollen, heavy and painful limbs and body parts. To explain it more simply, picture this: the lymphatic system is like a road system, connecting people and places. Road systems have exits, on-ramps and off-ramps, and when an exit is closed, a back-up of traffic can occur. Just like a closed off-ramp creates traffic issues, removal or interruption of lymph nodes creates lymph fluid back-up.
Lymphedema most often develops in one arm or leg but may be present in both arms or legs. It may also occur in the hands or feet, and even in the chest, back, neck, face, abdomen, and genitals.
There are two kinds of lymphedema: primary and secondary.
You NEED to know:
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Approximately 1 million Canadians live with lymphedema, and the number is growing
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North American medical schools spend less than 1 hour, during the entirety of medical school, on lymphedema
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There are very few billing codes for physicians in Ontario to bill for caring for a person with lymphedema (this means they can't get paid to help someone specifically with lymphedema). That's not right.
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Available care services are few and far between
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Our dream (Audrey's dream, actually) is to create a "Lymphedema/Lipedema Hub" in Niagara, creating a place for people to find and navigate care and services. We're working on it! Want to help us out? Give us a shout!
Give a listen to Kathy Bates' story. No, not Canadian, but a passionate and strong advocate for lymphedema care, no matter where a person lives. Lymphedema doesn't discriminate.
What's Lipedema?
Lipedema is a long-term condition which creates unusual fat deposits in the body, often in the legs, but sometimes in the arms. The skin can hurt when touched, and it feel as though there's little bumps under the skin inside the fat. The affected limb/area can feel heavy, and you can feel fatigued.
Lipedema is NOT being overweight or obese and no amount of exercise and dieting will reduce the fat. Wearing flat-knit compression garments will have a significant impact on helping with fatigue and keeping the area smooth and safely reduced.
The cause of lipedema is not well understood, but it is often genetic, and occurs most often in women (sorry ladies. like we needed one. more. thing.)
Lipedema Canada is an excellent resource for more information about Lipedema.
HOW DOES COMPRESSION HELP?
Wearing compression garments is essential for managing lymphedema, as they help control swelling, improve circulation, and prevent fluid buildup in the affected area. Compression therapy supports the lymphatic system by encouraging proper drainage, reducing discomfort, and lowering the risk of infections or skin complications. Consistent use of well-fitted compression garments can enhance mobility, maintain limb shape, and improve overall quality of life for individuals living with lymphedema.
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Need custom compression?
How does ordering custom compression work?
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make an appointment with our fitters
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at your appointment our fitters will take a number of measurements on the area for which you require compression
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wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing
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our fitting room is private and we make every effort to ensure your safety and comfort
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our fitter will help you choose the garment that works best for you, including colours or prints
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our staff will place the order and will call you when it arrives, and schedule a fitting appointment
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at your fitting appointment, our fitter will help you get the donning and doffing (putting on and taking off) all sorted, and will answer any questions you might have
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you're on your way!
Our clinic is an authorized retailer for MEDI and JUZO flat knit products.