We're in this together, nobody fights MS alone
Meet the team interview
Who is Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions, and how long have you been serving our community?
Kate Perkins, a specialist cancer rehab and lymphoedema trained OT, established the practice in 2017, focusing on the early monitoring and intervention for breast cancer related lymphoedema (BRCL), treating the side effects of cancer treatment, as well as assessing and treating other secondary / primary lymphoedema symptoms.
Over the last 6 years, with the introduction of MLS Laser Therapy technology, the practice has grown, and the treatment types have broadened.
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Tell us a little bit about what you do at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions?
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In a nutshell, we treat the side effects of cancer treatment. We have a strong focus on monitoring for cancer related lymphoedema symptom using bioimpedance technology called the SOZO. With the use of the MLS Laser, we receive referrals from orthopaedic surgeons and GPs to assist with accelerated tissue healing post orthopaedic and oncology related surgeries. Other conditions we are able to treat are musculoskeletal injuries or conditions including bursitis, rotator cuff injuries, inflammatory conditions including bursitis or acute injuries, arthritis, joint pain, and peripheral neuropathy.
As lymphoedema therapists, we assess and manage symptoms of lymphoedema, lipoedema, and other disruptions to the lymphatic system. Treatments include the use of the MLS Laser, manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage, garment prescription, and the use of sequential intermittent pneumatic compression pumps. Exercise prescription is also a component of treatment.
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Tell us how your specialised services can help people living with Multiple Sclerosis?
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One of the biological effects of MLS Laser is to reduce muscle tightness and reduce swelling, by vasodilation of blood vessels to increase circulation and vasodilation of superficial lymphatics to reduce swelling. So it is a highly efficient and non-invasive method to reduce muscle contraction symptoms. MLS Laser is also effective in reducing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
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What is the price involved, and how long is each visit?
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An initial consultation is $195 – 45 mins to 1 hour. Subsequent consultations vary dependent on the recommendations – from $130 to $200. Length of appointments vary from 20 mins to 1 hour.
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Are appointments claimable from my NDIS budget or can I claim on my health fund?
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Yes, you can claim on your NDIS funds, but we are not registered with the NDIS, so this will only be accessible if you are plan managed or self-managed. If you are eligible for the Medicare Care Plan, you can ask you GP to refer you to us under OT which will give you 5 visits per calendar year if the NDIS or Health Fund isn’t available to you.
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Do you have any other services at Cancer Rehabilitation & Lymphatic Solutions that you can recommend for people living with MS?
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We have the services of exercise physiology, operated by Rhiannon Walton of Conveniently Active.
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What message do you have for people living with MS?
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Everyone’s symptoms / features of MS vary. Treatment recommendations are tailored to your needs, one size does not fit all. We are able to work with you to develop the best treatment solutions.
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How can we get more information or book an appointment?
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You can call us on (02) 4312 7033. We are located at Shop 5, Elizabeth Court, 30 Karalta Road, Erina.
You can find more information on our website