Adapting standard care to support self-management for a patient with lymphoedema and neurological co-morbidities: a case report

Abstract

This case report discusses the role of a practitioner managing a patient with secondary lymphoedema as part of a self-management regime. The patient was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and lumbar spinal stenosis. The focus is on compression therapy, which is used as part of complete decongestive therapy to reduce and control lymphoedema. The case report illustrates how a patient-centred plan can help people with lymphoedema and co-morbidities to achieve their personal goals. The evidence behind treatment decisions is considered, and modifications made to the care plan to accommodate the needs of the individual are described. The teaching and rehabilitation role of the practitioner is explored, including strategies used to support patients with long-term conditions. This report also identifies a lack of research-based evidence supporting the management of oedema as a symptom of multiple sclerosis. Further research is needed to inform clinical guidelines which would promote the management of secondary lymphoedema.