Whole limb photobiomodulation (low level laser therapy) treatment and a full range of services

The Centre was established in St Marys in January 2000 and pioneered the use of Scanning Laser Therapy in Tasmania. Today, we have one scanning laser unit and two hand-held probes. These units combine to offer an extensive range of wavelengths and intensities, enabling the therapists to optimise treatments for certain conditions ranging from lymphoedema, post-surgical recovery, wounds and musculoskeletal injuries.

All of our programs are designed to minimise pain, discomfort and mobility loss experienced by patients, and to restore their quality of life and enjoyment of everyday activities.

All treatment protocols have been developed with advice and ongoing support from Professor Neil Piller, Lymphologist, from the Flinders Medical Centre in South Australia.

Treatments for lymphoedema offered by the Tasmanian Lymphoedema Centre may include:

  • Photobiomodulation (Low Level Laser Therapy)
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
  • Education and guidance on self-care
  • Body Composition Analysis and Fluid Ratio Measurements
  • Dietary, exercise and skin care advice

Photobiomodulation (Low Level Laser Therapy) can be effective in treating a range of conditions, including Axillary Web Syndrome, known as ‘cording’, a post-surgical condition resolved on average with two treatments approximately ten days apart.

The Centre’s Standard Course: Two or three consecutive days from Tuesday to Friday

The Tasmanian Lymphoedema and Laser Therapy Centre offers an intensive course of two or three consecutive days a week of treatment, depending on the degree or staging of the patient’s lymphoedema. Early intervention greatly assists in long-term management.

Day 1:
During the first session a senior laser therapist assesses the patient’s medical history and symptoms. The session continues with an hour-long appointment for Low Level Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation), followed by Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD). Our rooms are comfortable and light, and patients are encouraged to ask questions throughout. The session lasts for approximately two hours.

Day 2/3:
One hour Low Level Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation) and one hour Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage.
Low Level Laser Therapy using both a scanning laser and a hand-held probe helps lymphoedema by:

  • Softening scar tissue
  • Softening hardened fibrosed area
  • Reducing pain and boosting circulation
  • Stimulating the growth of new lymph vessels which, in turn, results in increased drainage of the limb.

How does it work?

Photobiomodulation (Low Level Laser Therapy) creates a photochemical reaction at a cellular level. The laser light penetrates into tissue where it is absorbed by cells and converted into energy that influences metabolic processes.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a treatment in which a specially trained therapist massages the patient’s affected limb to assist the body’s natural drainage system, reducing the fluid accumulation characteristic of lymphoedema.