Use of simple lymphatic drainage on truncal lymphoedema for a patient with diabetes and peripheral arterial disease.

Lymphoedema is the gradual, abnormal build-up of lymph fluid in the tissues resulting from a failure of the lymphatic system. The swelling impedes movement and is painful. Compression garments are contraindicated and not tolerated by patients with extensive peripheral arterial disease. In this case study, simple lymphatic drainage was therefore considered a safer treatment option to reduce oedema and to encourage proactive self-management for a patient with bilateral amputations, diabetes and peripheral arterial disease.