Home | Appointments | Contact | Training & Courses | FAQ | Therapists

Elsebeth Perry-Petersen specialises in treating the symptoms of problems, that arise from an overwhelmed or dysfunctional lymphatic system. For the most part, this has been with cancer survivors who have developed lymphoedema.

Initially attending classes in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) in 1993, Elsebeth went to the Lymphoedema Association of Australia to study the Casley-Smith method of Complex Lymphatic Therapy (CLT). After 12 years in the field, she completed studies with the LAA to become a certified instructor of this method. Other teachers of the Casley-Smith method can be found in the UK, USA, Israel and Holland. They are listed on the Lymphoedema Association of Australia's website.

Elsebeth also trained in the Földi Klinic, in Hinterzarten, Germany. That Professors Michael and Ethelda Földi continue to give of their time to lecture students was deeply appreciated. Their hospital in the Black Forest, is an exceptional and enviable achievement.

Most other clinics around the world are pushed to meet the needs of lymphoedema. There are few therapists in private practice.
Lymphoedema may make its presence felt for a short time only, or for a lifetime. Regardless of which, the timing of an episode of swelling can be inconvenient, and a hospital clinic may not always be in a position to offer immediate treatment. Southern Highlands Lymphatic Drainage aims to complement this gap.

Complex Lymphatic Therapy: (CLT)
CLT includes skin care, manual lymphatic drainage, multi-layered bandaging, and the measuring and ordering of compression garments. Exercises that stimulate the lymphatic system are of paramount significance and together with self-care are also taught. Where other health professionals are required, the client will be referred on, eg podiatry needs, prescription medicine.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage: (MLD)
This component of CLT, is time consuming. It is the most oft requested treatment at this clinic. (In Germany, patients receive 2 sessions per day!!) Careful palpation of the affected tissues reveals the extent of congestion. The techniques required to manually move fluid are very light and repetitive strokes. The aim of MLD is to stimulate the movement of lymph inside the lymphatic vessels and to decongest the swollen tissues by diverting the excess fluid to existing lymph nodes. Most experiences of MLD, report a lighter and freer feeling in the affected area. This can occur over time or in each session.