Physiotherapists from the Andalusian Health Service (SAS) in Campo de Gibraltar have intensified their specialized training in managing lymphedema, a chronic condition requiring highly skilled care. The initiative involved professionals from both Primary Care and Hospital settings.
The training event took place in the Physiotherapy gym of the Rheumatology and Rehabilitation Unit at the Campo de Gibraltar Oeste Health Management Area. It was coordinated by the area's Research, Teaching, Training, and Quality Unit. The primary objective was to delve into Decongestive Physical Therapy, a benchmark treatment for lymphedema, covering techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage, pressotherapy, and containment bandaging.
In addition to practical sessions, theoretical aspects were covered, including the lymphatic system's function, specific electrotherapy, treatment for axillary web syndrome, and the psychological dimension for oncological patients, who are among the most affected by this condition.
The course was led by Jesús Baltasar González Rubiño, a Doctor of Physiotherapy and head of the Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema Unit in Primary Care for the Campo de Gibraltar Oeste Health Area. His international expertise is further highlighted by the prestigious annual award from the British Lymphology Society (BLS), received for the third consecutive year, recognizing his work in disseminating new therapeutic strategies.
During the event, the Nursing Director of the Health Area, Juan Manuel Diosdado, was also present, observing the practical simulation workshops.
Lymphedema, a chronic swelling of the arms or legs due to lymphatic system issues, particularly after cancer treatments involving lymph node removal, requires ongoing specialized intervention to reduce fluid buildup, alleviate pain, and prevent infections. The Campo de Gibraltar Oeste Health Management Area emphasizes the importance of such training to ensure increasingly specialized healthcare, aligning with the reinforcement of physiotherapy human resources in the first half of 2026.
