title: Childhood lymphoedema and 'Lymphaletics': overcoming barriers.
abstract: Primary lymphoedema is a complex condition that causes tissue swelling, usually in one or more of the limbs, but lymphatic drainage of the head, trunk or deeper organs may also be affected. It can manifest in swelling at any time from birth meaning there are a number of children affected by this condition. While it is rare in childhood there are too few professionals experienced in diagnosis and treatment, which results in delays in identification and referral to appropriate services for diagnosis and treatment. The Children's Lymphoedema Special Interest Group (CLSIG) was formed in 2010 by a group of lymphoedema specialists in a bid to raise awareness, improve service provision, and enhance practitioner knowledge. One of the aims of the group was to deliver a 'fun day' (Lymphaletics) for children with lymphoedema and their families to encourage physical activity and social interaction with children who have similar problems, and to provide a source of parent-to-parent support. This article discusses the issues for children and their families, and the aims and format of the event.
authors.affiliation: Lymphoedema Clinical Nurse Specialist, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Gillian Craig, Chronic Oedema Specialist, NHS Grampian, Denise Hardy - CNS Lymphoedema/Clinical manager. Kendal Lymphology Centre, Kendal Cumbria.
authors.forename: Marie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Todd
mesh_terms: D002648:Child; D019988:Children with Disabilities; D015444:Exercise; D005190:Family; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D008209:Lymphedema; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D064846:Sports for Persons with Disabilities; D006113:United Kingdom
keywords: Children; Exercise; Family support; Primary lymphoedema; Self-esteem