Oedema for podiatrists - Can we make a difference? (Library)

Join us for this 40-minute presentation and 10-minute Q&A session on the topic of Oedema for podiatrists- Can we make a difference?.

Dr Sylvia McAra will provide a comprehensive update on the role of a podiatrist in managing lymphoedema. The webinar will cover anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system including the difference between lymphoedema, oedema, and leaky legs, and treatment options for these conditions including intermittent sequential pump therapy. We will also explore ‘skinny leg lymphoedema’, the ‘red leg pathway’, and ‘leaky legs’, and how to become a lymphoedema therapist.

Learning Objectives:

• What is a podiatrist role in managing lymphoedema
• Problem solving with compression
• Learn the 4 principles for management of oedema in legs and feet

The Presenter:

Sylvia McAra PhD.,
Podiatrist and Lymphoedema Practitioner

An experienced podiatrist, Sylvia completed her doctoral project in 2015, studying effects of low dose, transdermal glyceryl trinitrate on peripheral vascular supply and validity in peripheral vascular assessment.

Her interest in becoming a lymphoedema practitioner was spurred by success in wound healing when oedema is optimally managed.

Chronic swelling in legs and feet is a modifiable factor that significantly affects quality of life and elevates risks of medical complications, especially around surgery.

The effects of swelling on pain, including neuropathic pain, healing, infection risk, mobility and footwear are profound. This area offers the potential for podiatrists to take up opportunities to make significant contributions to patient care in areas generally not well understood and with huge and growing prevalence.

She is currently working as a clinical podiatrist and lymphoedema practitioner in a regional multidisciplinary private practice in Victoria, and providing education for doctors, nurses and allied health groups.

Her publications include articles around best practice for peripheral vascular screening.

She is currently working on the link between oedema and peripheral vascular supply, with special interest in cancer care, specifically lower limb radiotherapy and minimizing side effects.