Our Lymphoedema Service works collaboratively with the Radiotherapy Late Effects Service in Musgrove Park Hospital to provide a monthly joint clinic based within the Lymphoedema Clinic in St Margaret’s Hospice, Taunton.
Radiotherapy late effects are symptoms that can happen any time from 3 to 6 months to many years after radiotherapy treatment has finished. Symptoms may include lymphoedema, tightness/cording, reduced range of movement and/or pain, although these are not exclusive.
The Lymphoedema Specialist and Late Effects Consultant Radiographer will undertake a joint assessment and agree on a management plan for those patients suffering with late effects following radiotherapy treatment.
Treatment may include referral into hydrotherapy sessions via the Late Effects service, advice and education on managing pain, education of stretches and range of movement exercises, intensive treatment sessions such as low-level light therapy (LLLT) and Hivamat or Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
Referrals are made via each respective service into this joint clinic to ensure a holistic assessment and management plan has been developed for these patients. It also provides the opportunity to co-ordinate a pathway of care and onward referral to other specialist services if there is a need.
