Lymphedema
Specialised management to reduce swelling, protect skin health and support comfortable, healthy limbs.
Lymphedema at a glance
Lymphedema is treated at Med Wellness Physiotherapy & Rehab in Woodbridge, Ontario through a 4-stage plan — assessment & measurement, manual lymphatic drainage, compression & exercise, skin care & self-management — delivered one-on-one by registered clinicians. No doctor's referral is required in Ontario, and we bill most extended health plans directly.
- Most common symptom: swelling in a limb or area, sometimes subtle at first
- Leading cause: surgery or radiotherapy involving lymph nodes
- Referral needed: no — direct access in Ontario
- Insurance: direct billing to most extended health plans
- Treated at: Unit 11, 110 Ansley Grove Road, Woodbridge, Ontario, L4L 3R1
- Book by phone: +1 (905) 605-8889
Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid that causes swelling, most often in an arm or leg. It develops when the lymphatic system is overwhelmed or damaged — frequently after surgery or cancer treatment involving lymph nodes, or due to a lymphatic system that doesn't drain efficiently.
Although lymphedema is a long-term condition, it can be managed very effectively. Without management, swelling and the heaviness, reduced movement and skin changes that come with it tend to progress; with consistent care, it can be controlled and quality of life protected.
Our approach combines manual lymphatic techniques, compression guidance, skin care and gentle remedial exercise to reduce swelling and, crucially, give you the knowledge and routine to manage the condition confidently for the long term.
Common causes
- Surgery or radiotherapy involving lymph nodes
- Cancer treatment affecting lymphatic drainage
- A congenital or inherited lymphatic difference
- Infection or injury damaging lymph vessels
- Reduced mobility contributing to fluid pooling
Signs & symptoms
- Swelling in a limb or area, sometimes subtle at first
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Reduced flexibility and movement
- Aching or discomfort in the affected area
- Skin changes or recurrent skin infections
How we treat lymphedema
A clear, step-by-step path from settling your symptoms to lasting recovery — tailored to you at every stage.
Assessment & measurement
We assess the swelling, measure the affected limb and review your history to build a personalised management plan.
Manual lymphatic drainage
Specialised gentle techniques encourage lymph fluid to move and drain, reducing swelling and heaviness.
Compression & exercise
We guide appropriate compression and prescribe gentle remedial exercise that further supports drainage and movement.
Skin care & self-management
We teach skin-care, infection-prevention and self-management routines so you can keep the condition well controlled at home.
What to expect
Lymphedema management is ongoing rather than a one-off fix, but a consistent program reliably reduces swelling and protects comfort, movement and skin health. The most powerful results come from combining clinic treatment with a daily self-management routine.
We focus heavily on equipping you with skills and confidence, so the condition fits around your life rather than controlling it.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about lymphedema and how we treat it.
Will lymphedema ever go away?
It's usually a long-term condition, but with consistent management the swelling can be well controlled and its impact on your life kept small.
Is exercise safe with lymphedema?
Yes — appropriate, gentle exercise actually supports lymphatic drainage. We prescribe the right type and amount for you.
Why does skin care matter so much?
The affected skin is more prone to infection, which can worsen swelling. Good skin care is a key part of keeping lymphedema under control.
Related conditions
View allThis page is general health information reviewed by a registered clinician. It is not personalised medical advice and does not replace an in-person assessment. If your symptoms are severe, worsening or new, contact a healthcare professional.
Your recovery starts with one appointment
Book online in under two minutes, or call us and we'll find a time that works. Most extended health plans accepted with direct billing.