Shining a Light on Lymphoedema on the Central Coast
March marks Lymphoedema Awareness Month — a national campaign aimed at increasing understanding of lymphoedema, encouraging earlier detection, and improving access to coordinated care across Australia.
On the Central Coast, Erina-based Occupational Therapist and rehabilitation leader Kate Perkins is using the month to raise awareness about a condition that often goes undetected until it becomes more difficult to manage.
What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition characterised by swelling caused by disruption to the lymphatic system — the body’s network responsible for fluid balance and immune support.
When lymphatic vessels or nodes are damaged or removed, fluid can accumulate in the tissues. This most commonly affects the arms or legs but may also impact the chest, trunk, head or neck.
There are two main types:
Primary lymphoedema, related to developmental or genetic differences in the lymphatic system.
Secondary lymphoedema, which most commonly occurs following cancer surgery or radiation therapy involving lymph nodes.
Early symptoms can include:
- A feeling of heaviness or tightness
- Mild or fluctuating swelling
- Clothing or jewellery feeling tighter than usual
- Reduced flexibility
- Recurrent skin infections
While lymphoedema is a long-term condition, early assessment and appropriate management may help reduce its impact and support improved comfort and function.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were 9,400 lymphoedema-related hospitalisations recorded nationally in 2020–21. It is estimated that each year approximately 4,100 Australians treated for breast cancer, and between 1,600 and 5,100 treated for melanoma, may develop secondary lymphoedema following treatment involving lymph nodes.
A Focus on Early Detection
Kate Perkins is the Founder of Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions (CRLS) in Erina and also established Coastal Rehab Hub, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation centre supporting complex recovery needs across the Central Coast.
With a clinical focus on cancer rehabilitation and lymphatic health, Kate has developed services aimed at supporting earlier identification of lymphatic changes, particularly following cancer treatment.
“Early identification and proactive care are critical,” she says. “Many people are not aware that sensations such as heaviness or subtle swelling may indicate early lymphatic changes. Seeking assessment early may support better long-term management.”
CRLS incorporates assessment tools such as bioimpedance spectroscopy (SOZO), which may assist in detecting fluid changes before visible swelling develops. Management approaches may include manual lymphatic drainage, compression therapy, individualised exercise programs, education and self-management strategies, and adjunct therapies where clinically appropriate.
Integrated Rehabilitation on the Coast
Through Coastal Rehab Hub, Kate has developed an integrated model of care bringing allied health professionals together under one roof. The aim is to support individuals recovering from cancer, surgery and complex health conditions in a coordinated way.
“Lymphoedema doesn’t occur in isolation,” Kate explains. “Patients benefit from collaborative, multidisciplinary care that looks at the whole person — not just one symptom.”
Supporting her at CRLS is Caitlin Hobday, an Accredited Lymphoedema Therapist and Occupational Therapist with experience in cancer-related and complex presentations, including head and neck lymphoedema.
“Awareness and early assessment can make a meaningful difference in helping individuals understand their risk and management options,” Caitlin says.
A Message for the Community
During Lymphoedema Awareness Month, local health professionals are encouraging individuals who have undergone cancer treatment involving lymph nodes — or who are experiencing persistent swelling or changes in sensation — to seek advice from appropriately trained clinicians.
For health professionals, incorporating lymphoedema risk assessment into cancer survivorship planning is increasingly recognised as an important component of long-term care.
As awareness grows, the goal is simple: earlier conversations, earlier assessment, and better support for those living with lymphatic conditions on the Central Coast.
To find out more visit
https://www.coastalrehabhub.com.au/