And it is available here in Parkes.

Parkes Health Service is inviting women and men from the Parkes and surrounding districts who have previously had breast cancer surgery to make an appointment to attend a special clinic on Monday, July 8.

It will be held at Parkes physiotherapy unit and will involve an L-Dex measurement of their arm. 

McGrath Breast Care Nurse with Parkes Community Health Centre, Dianne Green said L-dex measurements are non invasive and used to assist in the assessment of  lymphoedema of the arm.   It takes about 15 minutes.

“This measurement may help in the early detection of lymphoedema for those women or men who have had axillary nodes removed during breast cancer surgery,” Dianne explained. 

“As many women have not had this measurement before, the measurement on the day will provide a future baseline measurement if women start to experience any of the symptoms of lymphoedema in the future.”

The L-Dex equipment was provided through the generosity of Northparkes Mines, Parkes Quota Club, Friends of the Forbes Hospital, Forbes Rotary and a personal donation.

They cost $5,000 and there is now a machine at Parkes and Forbes hospitals.

“They will be operated by the physiotherapist departments, but I will also be able to take them out to district residents.

“This is the gold standard of care and can be used before swelling is detected, which is a huge assistance in detecting problems.”

To make an appointment for July 8, phone Parkes Community Health Centre on 02 68612500 between the hours of 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.