Proactive Lymphoedema Care in Toowoomba: The Prospective Surveillance Model

Lymphoedema is a common side effect of cancer treatment, particularly following surgery or radiation involving the lymph nodes. Early detection and intervention make a major difference in preventing long-term swelling, discomfort, and reduced movement.

At Toowoomba Lymphoedema OT, we use a proactive, evidence-based approach called the Prospective Surveillance or Early Intervention model of care to help clients identify and manage lymphoedema as early as possible.

What Is a Prospective Surveillance Model of Care?

The Prospective Surveillance Model of Care is a structured, preventive approach to lymphoedema management. Rather than waiting for visible swelling to appear, this model focuses on:

• baseline assessment, ideally before cancer treatment has commenced.

• regular monitoring to track subtle limb changes.

• education on strategies to manage your risk.

• early intervention as soon as changes become evident.

This method empowers clients to understand their risk and take action early which improves lymphoedema related outcomes. It is recommended by a number of lymphoedema advocacy and public health organisations including Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA) the International Lymphoedema Framework (ILF)

Monitoring Methods:

Many hospital and cancer clinics now use bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) via devices such as SOZO to detect early lymph fluid changes.

At Toowoomba Lymphoedema OT, we provide comprehensive circumferential and tape-measure assessments — a reliable, validated method for monitoring limb volume changes over time.

If you already have access to SOZO readings through your oncology or cancer care team, these results can be integrated with your community-based lymphoedema assessments for a complete, continuous picture of your progress.

This collaborative approach ensures your care remains connected between hospital and private settings, giving you the best of both worlds.

Why Early Lymphoedema Detection Matters

Research shows that early surveillance and intervention can:

• Reduce the risk of chronic lymphoedema

• Minimise the need for intensive treatment later

• Improve mobility, comfort, and quality of life

• Support long-term physical recovery after cancer treatment

Through the prospective surveillance model, small changes in limb size can be detected and managed promptly — often before you notice any symptoms.

Who Should Consider Prospective Lymphoedema Screening?

You may benefit from a baseline lymphoedema assessment if you are preparing for or have recently undergone:

• Breast cancer or gynaecological cancer treatment

• Prostate or melanoma surgery

• Lymph node dissection or radiation therapy

Even if swelling has not appeared, early measurement provides valuable baseline data for those at risk of lymphoedema. It’s important to note that not everyone treated for cancer will develop lymphoedema, however anyone who is at risk will benefit from access to a prospective surveillance and early detection model of care.

Lymphoedema Management in Toowoomba and Surrounding Areas

Toowoomba Lymphoedema OT offers expert care for people living in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs region

Services include:

• Baseline and follow-up limb measurements

• Compression garment prescription and education

• Self-management strategies and exercise advice

• Collaboration with cancer care teams and GPs

Every client receives individualised, evidence-based care to promote long-term wellbeing.

Book Your Baseline Assessment

If you’re preparing for, currently undergoing, or have completed cancer treatment, it’s never too early to take a proactive approach to lymphoedema care.

Book your baseline lymphoedema assessment in Toowoomba today. Contact Toowoomba Lymphoedema OT to discuss your individual needs and start monitoring your lymphoedema risk early.