

ONCOLOGY, LYMPHOEDEMA & LIPOEDEMA INTRODUCTION
Established by Liz Charlton in 2009, Positive Motion Physiotherapy remains the only clinic in Canberra specialising in oncology and lymphoedema therapy. Our specialised team of therapists are members of the Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA) and are the only private therapists in Canberra listed on the ALA's National Lymphoedema Practitioner's Register (NLPR). The caring and highly qualified team support, motivate and encourage patients, whilst offering quality care and professional advice.
Your therapist will work with you to create a rehabilitation programme to suit your stage of recovery. That programme may include a range of services to suit individual needs.
Positive Motion Physiotherapy and Allied Health incorporates LympheDonnas, the Australian distributors of LympheDivas garments.
Home visits are also available.
Australasian Lymphology Association (ALA) accredited therapists, PINC and STEEL registered, treat NDIS participants and DVA registered.
ONCOLOGY MANAGEMENT

ONCOLOGY PRE-TREATMENT SCREENING (INCLUDING SOZO)
- For all cancer types, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, gynaecological cancer, melanoma and skin cancer, and head and neck cancer.
- According to the Early Intervention Model of Care using bioimpedance spectroscopy (LDEX SOZO) and circumference measurement. Bioimpedance spectroscopy assists in the early detection of lymphoedema. It can also be used as a tool to collect preoperative baseline measurements prior to surgery involving lymph nodes.
ONCOLOGY POST-OPERATIVE TREATMENT INCLUDING REHABILITATION
- Post-operative management is designed to support the healing process of clients who are recently post-surgery or undergoing treatments.
COMPRESSION GARMENT ADVICE & FITTING, READY-TO-WEAR & CUSTOM-MADE, INCLUDING LYMPHEDONNAS GARMENTS
- For those who require oedema management that may be due to other primary or secondary conditions, our therapists will tailor a compression garment solution to suit your needs.
SCAR MANAGEMENT
- Our therapists can assist you with maintaining healthy tissue function and facilitating healing, whether it be post-operative scar tissue or oedema-related skin changes.
MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MLD) MASSAGE
- More info to follow
KINESIOTAPING
- Kinesiotaping or lymphatic taping can be used to assist with lymphatic drainage at the surface layers of the skin.
MEN'S HEALTH, INCLUDING ONCOLOGY/PROSTATE REHABILITATION
LYMPHATOUCH TREATMENT
- Lymphatouch® is a device that is designed to support lymphatic drainage. The negative pressure generated by the device helps improve lymphatic circulation in the treated area. In addition to negative pressure, it has a mechanical high-frequency vibration feature.
LOW LEVEL 'COLD' LASER THERAPY
- A growing body of evidence-based literature supports the use of low-level laser therapy for wound healing, pain relief, improving tissue health and stimulating circulation. We have powerful clinic lasers and some handheld lasers to purchase or rent.
COMPRESSION PUMP THERAPY
ENDERMOLOGIE TREATMENT
PHYSIO-LED, SMALL GROUP ONCOLOGY REHAB & MEN'S HEALTH CLASSES
INDIVIDUALISED EXERCISE ADVICE & PRESCRIPTION INCLUDING EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY
- Those clients who are in the next phase of their recovery may benefit from a programme or class that focuses on strengthening and stretching for the upper body, lower body, abdominal strength and stability.
INSTRUCTION IN SELF-MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
- Self-management is an important part of managing chronic oedema/lymphoedema. We can provide you with advice and products to assist in optimal self-management.


LYMPHOEDEMA & LIPOEDEMA MANAGEMENT
Support your recovery with expert oncology and lymphoedema care.
CALL 02 6260 8244 AT POSITIVE MOTION REHABILITATION IN KINGSTON, ACT, TO BOOK TODAY.

ONCOLOGY SCREENING & MANAGEMENT
At Positive Motion Rehabilitation, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and personalised care throughout your breast cancer journey.
Our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you, ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need for optimal healing and recovery.
PREOPERATIVE, PROSPECTIVE SURVEILLANCE
- Comprehensive assessment and initial screening for lymphoedema (and body composition) using the SOZO device.
- Ongoing monitoring to track your progress
- Pre-operative exercises, including exercise classes.
- Tailored exercise programmes to prepare your body for surgery
- Improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being
We recommend early postoperative care.
POST-OPERATIVE ADVICE, EXERCISE & MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Post-operative management supports the healing process for those who are recently post-surgery or undergoing treatments.
The goal of oncology rehabilitation is to develop a postoperative programme to restore flexibility and strength to the affected joints and muscles whilst facilitating healing.
Strategies will incorporate breathing techniques, gentle exercises and stretches modified to maximise recovery from surgery.
Post-operative advice will also include ways to minimise the risk of developing complications, including lymphoedema. Compression garment fitting and sales may be recommended as part of risk minimisation for some clients.
Our therapists will also work closely with your referrers to ensure continuity of care.


TREATMENT OF SCAR TISSUE & CORDING
Our therapists can assist you with maintaining healthy tissue function and facilitating healing, whether it be post-operative scar tissue or oedema-related skin changes. We have occupational therapists on the team who specialise in scar management, and we can provide you with products and advice on how to best manage your scars.
We also use devices like the Lymphatouch, Endermologie and low-level laser therapy to optimise your tissue recovery.


ONCOLOGY EXERCISE REHABILITATION
Specialised classes designed for patients undergoing cancer treatment promote optimal healing, regaining strength, and improving overall well-being.
For those clients who are in the next phase of their recovery, they may benefit from a programme or class that focuses on strengthening and stretching for the upper body, lower body, abdominal strength and stability.
WHAT IS INVOLVED?
- Pre-exercise assessment including body composition and SOZO,
- 6- or 12-week specially tailored, evidence-based exercise programme,
- Post-exercise assessment to determine improvement and appropriate progression towards independence.
LYMPHOEDEMA MANAGEMENT
For those who require oedema management (including seromas and post-operative swelling), our therapists will tailor a management programme to suit your needs.
We can prescribe and directly prescribe compression garments to suit your needs. We also can measure up for custom garments. Including complex custom garments. We can also provide services to DVA, NDIS and aged care patients, and we are accredited to prescribe garments through state-based equipment schemes.
ONCOLOGY & EXERCISE
At Positive Motion, our oncology-specific classes are designed to support cancer patients at all levels of their recovery journey.
Regular exercise has been shown to provide numerous benefits for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, particularly for those affected by breast cancer.

Here’s an overview of our key classes and the advantages they offer:
BENEFITS OF EXERCISE BEFORE, DURING & AFTER CANCER TREATMENT
STRENGTH ABC (AFTER BREAST CANCER)
This programme focuses on gradually building strength through evidence-based resistance training. Research indicates that participants can experience a 50% reduction in lymphoedema flare-ups and a 70% reduction in the onset of lymphoedema among women with multiple lymph nodes removed.
This class not only helps improve physical strength but also enhances body image and overall well-being.
MEN’S HEALTH CLASSES
Tailored specifically for male cancer survivors, these classes address unique health concerns and focus on building strength, endurance, and confidence through targeted exercises.
OSTEOPOROSIS/OSTEOPENIA CLASS
Specifically designed for patients at risk of bone density loss, this class incorporates resistance training and weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones and improve balance. By participating in this programme, you can help mitigate the risk of osteoporosis, a common concern for many undergoing hormone therapy or experiencing early menopause due to cancer treatments.
BENEFITS OF EXERCISE BEFORE, DURING & AFTER CANCER TREATMENT
ENHANCED MENTAL WELL-BEING
Exercise has been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression commonly faced by cancer patients, leading to improved mood and overall mental health.
IMPROVED PHYSICAL FUNCTION
Regular participation in exercise can help counteract the physical deconditioning often experienced during cancer treatment, making everyday activities easier to perform.
REDUCED FATIGUE
Engaging in structured exercise can significantly reduce fatigue levels, which is a common side effect of cancer treatments.
BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE
Studies indicate that cancer patients who exercise report a higher quality of life across various health domains, including emotional and physical health.
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Our classes foster a sense of camaraderie among participants who share similar experiences, providing emotional support during a challenging time.
EXPERT GUIDANCE
Our classes are led by qualified therapists with experience in oncology care. They ensure that exercises are safe and tailored to individual needs. Our goal is to facilitate a safe return to physical activity, enhance recovery, and address any specific health concerns through a rehabilitation programme that best suits individual patient needs.
At Positive Motion, we prioritise your safety and comfort while promoting a positive exercise experience. Our boutique gym space allows for a safe, small-group exercise experience. Our dedicated team of exercise physiologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists are committed to helping you regain strength, confidence and vitality as you navigate your recovery journey.
