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The Perth Breast Cancer Physio is a dedicated Breast Cancer and Lymphoedema clinic located in East Fremantle, Perth, WA.
​Treatment is provided by Julie Curnow, an experienced physiotherapist of more than 25 years, and a qualified lymphoedema therapist, with advanced qualifications in breast, chest wall and upper limb from the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.
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Julie treats all patients with lymphoedema (including breast and chest wall, gynae, bowel, melanomas), lipoedema, chronic oedema and venous-related oedema, as well as patients that require lymphoedema monitoring after all cancer surgery and lymph node removal. The clinic is equipped with the latest technology in lymphoedema management including the SOZO bioimpedance and diode laser.​
Julie Curnow
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Accredited Lymphoedema Practitioner (Cat 1)
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Advanced Breast, Arm & Chest Wall Lymphoedema Therapist
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Laser Therapist
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Pilates Clinician
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Pinc International Cancer Rehabilitation Accredited
Treatments include Laser, SOZO Bioimpedance, Manual Lymph Drainage, Lipoedema, Bandaging, Garment Prescription, and Intermittent Pneumatic Pump
Laser​
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been proven by Australian researchers to reduce the feelings of pain, tightness, heaviness and cramps, while reducing limb volume and whole upper body volume (study was performed on an upper limb). There is also evidence that it reduces axillary cording post breast cancer treatment (including mastectomy, removal of lymph nodes and radiation treatment).
Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a specialised massage technique designed to remove the accumulation of protein rich extracellular fluid (Lymphoedema), and to soften fibrosed areas. This process is required prior to the fitting of a Compression Garment. It is a specialised technique designed to move the fluid past the damaged Lymph Nodes, and into other healthy nodes. You will be taught how to do this yourself as part of you daily management, and should be performed 10-15 minutes, twice a day.
​Lipoedema​
Lipoedema is a chronically progressive, symmetrical accumulation of fat in the subcutaneous tissue affecting mostly women. It is primarily in the legs, but arms can also be affected. The cause is unknown. Lipoedema patients are often misdiagnosed as being obese, or having Lymphoedema. Lipoedema can also cause Lymphoedema (called Lipolymphoedema), so the conditions may exist together. Those with Lipoedema often bruise easily, are very sensitive to touch and may have looser and softer skin.
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If lymphoedema is present, it is essential to treat with manual lymph drainage (MLD), bandaging and compression garments, but this may need to be gentler due to hypersensitivity.
​Garment Prescription
Custom compression garment prescription takes years of training, and Julie has spent many years working closely with highly trained JOBST experts and fitters to refine her skills.
SOZO Bioimpedance​
Sozo's Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS) is the latest technology in measuring body composition. Subtle changes in protein rich extracellular fluid (lymphoedeama) can be detected, even prior to any symptoms. This allows for possible reversal, or effective management of lymphoedema. Lymphoedema, which is not detected early, may cause chronic fibrosis, inflammation, secondary damage to the lymphatics and infection. Hence, why early detection and management is crucial. Studies show that patients who have early detection with SOZO are less likely to go on and develop chronic lymphoedema.
At The Perth Breast Cancer Physio, you will be measured and monitored at regular intervals to identify any changes in fluid. BIS is also used in patients with established lymphoedema, in order to provide information for the most effective treatment for you.
https://www.hellosozo.com/#/aboutsozo
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​Bandaging​
Bandaging and Compression is an essential part of Complex Lymphatic Therapy (CLT). Bandaging involves wrapping the affected limb/body part over a number of weeks to increase the absorption and draining of lymph fluid out of the tissue. During this process, you will be measured for a compression garment, which you will wear daily once the bandaging process has been completed.
During this time, you will be taught how to perform self-manual lymph drainage (MLD), care for your skin, and how to integrate exercise into your life. This will enable you to manage and maintain your lymphoedema the best you can.
​Intermittent Pneumatic Pump​
This involves wearing a sleeve like device on the arm/leg/trunk which connects to a pump. The sleeve inflates in compartments from toes/fingers, towards the trunk.
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The pump causes decreased capillary filtration, which then reduces Lymph formation. Manual lymph drainage (MLD) will be required initially to prepare the trunk. Pumps can be rented initially through a Medirent.
The clinic is located on Preston Point Road in East Fremantle, Perth, WA.
Phone
62372929
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Address
65A Preston Point Road
East Fremantle
Perth WA 6158
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Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 9:00 am to 2:30 pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
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Prices
Initial consult (40-60 mins) $135 - $220
Subsequent consult (40 mins) $135
Long Subsequent Consult (45-60 mins) $220
Short Subsequent Consult (up to 30 mins) $110​