In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, Maree speaks with neuroscientist Dr Izelle Labuschagne to explore how the brain shapes patient engagement and clinical outcomes. Drawing on her background in psychology and clinical neuroscience, Izelle explains how stress, emotional load, attention, and mental health can influence how patients process information, make decisions, and respond to treatment. 

Together, they unpack why engagement is about far more than motivation or compliance. The conversation offers practical insights to help clinicians recognise when neurological and emotional factors may be affecting a patient’s ability to absorb information or follow through with care. 

If you’ve ever wondered why some patients struggle to engage despite your best efforts, this episode provides a fascinating neuroscience perspective and practical strategies to support more meaningful and effective clinical interactions. 

About our guest speaker: Dr Izelle Labuschagne – Neuroscientist | Research Mentor | Founder, Complete Thesis Support  

Dr Izelle Labuschagne completed her PhD in clinical neuroscience at Monash University in 2011 and holds accredited training in psychology from Monash University and Swinburne University of Technology. Her work is grounded in neuroscience, with a particular focus on social cognition and emotion, and how mental health, stress, and ageing influence brain–behaviour relationships. Through Complete Thesis Support, she now works closely with PhD candidates, research students, and early-career researchers, supporting them to navigate the demands of research with clarity, confidence, and sustainability. 

Izelle has extensive experience leading human neuroscience and neuropsychopharmacology research, including randomised double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials involving antidepressants, serotonergic agents, and neuropeptides such as oxytocin. She has worked across academic and industry-sponsored research, with strong expertise in ethics, regulatory processes, and Good Clinical Practice. Today, she integrates this scientific rigour into her mentoring and entrepreneurial work, supporting researchers in navigating complex systems, producing high-quality research, and building sustainable academic or industry careers.

 

Sponsor

This episode is proudly sponsored by Medi Australia, a global leader in compression therapy and a trusted partner to lymphoedema clinicians

Medi understands that effective lymphoedema care relies on evidence-based compression, patient comfort, and long-term adherence. Their German-engineered flat-knit and circular-knit garments provide effective compression, durability, and wearability, supporting outcomes across early intervention through to chronic, complex presentations.

Medi backs clinicians with education, product support, and responsive customer service, helping improve patient solutions. Through clinical rigour and innovation, Medi continues to improve quality of life for people living with lymphoedema.

For more information, go to mediaustralia.com.au 

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025 

In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, Maree speaks with Megan Bayliss, a mental health accredited social work supervisor with more than 30 years of experience supporting practitioners, communities, and organisations. Together, they explore why patient engagement can be so challenging in lymphoedema care—and what therapists can do to support it more effectively. 

The conversation moves beyond motivation and compliance to consider the real-world factors that influence engagement, including trust, context, readiness for change, and the pressures patients may be carrying long before they walk into the clinic. Megan shares practical insights to help clinicians navigate complex situations, ask better questions, and identify achievable supports without overwhelming patients. 

This episode offers thoughtful strategies and fresh perspectives on maintaining meaningful patient engagement in long-term lymphoedema management. 

About our guest speaker: Megan Bayliss 

Megan Bayliss is a Mental Health–accredited Social Work supervisor, researcher, and PhD candidate specialising in psychoeducation, bibliotherapy, and lived experience scholarship. She brings over 30 years’ experience as a clinical therapist, working across sexual assault services, relational practice, workforce supervision, and community-based social services in rural, remote, and international settings. 

A recipient of the prestigious CDUDES scholarship, Megan’s doctoral research explores how readers use popular psychology literature to navigate life-changing experiences, drawing on digital methodologies including online book clubs. She has held senior practice, leadership, and program development roles across health, community, and First Nations contexts, and is committed to knowledge translation that supports wellbeing, reflective practice, and community resilience. 

Sponsor: 

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by OPC Health, a trusted distributor of compression and consumable products for more than 40 years. OPC Health offers a comprehensive range including Juzo, Mobiderm, Jobst, LymphaTouch, and leading bandaging, scar management and wound care products. With a global supplier network, they deliver innovative, evidence-based solutions to support clinicians and improve patient outcomes Australia wide. Their strong commitment to education ensures healthcare professionals have the knowledge and resources needed to provide high quality care. 

Learn more at https://fdl8.short.gy/OPCHealthCompression 

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025 

In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, Maree speaks with Mary Toomey, whose unique perspective as both an experienced physiotherapist and someone living with stroke and lymphoedema brings depth and authenticity to the conversation. Together, they explore the realities of long-term management, the intersection of neurological change and lymphoedema, and the practical and relational factors that influence engagement over time. Whether you are early in your career or have decades of experience, this episode offers thoughtful reflections on listening, shared decision-making, and the subtle elements of care that shape outcomes in chronic oedema management. 

About our guest speaker: Mary Toomey 

Mary Toomey is a former physiotherapist and high-performance health leader with more than three decades’ experience across hospital care, private practice, and elite sport. After graduating in 1979, she worked extensively in high-performance environments, holding senior roles with organisations including the Melbourne Storm, Netball Australia, and the Queensland Academy of Sport, where she led multidisciplinary health and wellbeing teams supporting elite athletes.  

Following a major stroke in 2016, Mary transitioned academically into sociology and is currently undertaking a PhD exploring racism as a social determinant of health for First Nations athletes. Drawing on her clinical, managerial, and lived experience perspectives, her work focuses on the structural and social drivers of health, wellbeing, and equity, with a particular interest in how systems shape outcomes across sport and health settings. 

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

Are you a health professional looking to stay ahead in lymphoedema management? In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights for Health Professionals, Maree O’Connor is joined by Teresa Bauer, an experienced cancer and lymphoedema physiotherapist with nearly three decades of clinical expertise. Together, they share practical tips, evidence-based strategies, and real-world insights to help you stay informed, inspired, and connected to the lymphoedema community. 

This episode explores how to integrate holistic approaches such as nutrition, sleep, and exercise to support patient empowerment and improve long-term outcomes. You’ll also gain practical advice on making the most of webinars, conferences, and professional development opportunities while balancing the demands of a busy clinical workload. Tune in for thoughtful discussion and actionable insights to elevate your lymphoedema practice. 

About our guest speaker: Theresa Bauer
Theresa is a highly experienced titled Cancer and Lymphoedema Physiotherapist with 28 years’ experience across public and private healthcare, specialising in comprehensive lymphoedema management. She combines evidence-based practice with a holistic, patient-centred approach that empowers individuals to actively engage in their care and wellbeing.

Year of Engagement Spotlight
This episode brings the 2026 Year of Engagement to life through real-world clinical practice. Theresa Bauer shares how intentional reflection, evidence-informed learning, collaboration, and small practical actions help clinicians stay engaged in lymphoedema management, even within the demands of a busy workload.

A practical reminder that engagement is not about doing more, but about making thoughtful choices that support both patient care and professional growth.

Sponsorship: 

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by Medi-Rent, suppliers of high-quality intermittent pneumatic compression devices for lymphoedema care. With a commitment to clinical education and patient outcomes, Medi-Rent partners with healthcare providers across Australia to deliver evidence-based solutions that support lymphoedema management.
You can find more information at https://medirent.com.au/

Note: Sponsorship does not imply endorsement, and all educational content is developed independently to ensure it remains evidence-based and unbiased.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

Kick off 2026 with Engagement at the heart of your practice. In this episode, Maree O’Connor explores how actively connecting with knowledge, colleagues, and clients can turn learning into action. Discover simple ways to grow your skills, reflect on your practice, and make a meaningful impact for people living with lymphoedema and chronic oedema. This year, let engagement, curiosity, connection, and collaboration guide the change you can see.

You can take engagement further with our LES 2026 Actions for Engagement calendar. Each month offers small daily actions for big professional impact, with practical prompts to support reflection, connection, and thoughtful action in practice. Print it and keep it nearby, circle prompts that feel most relevant to you, explore examples of how prompts can be applied in practice, and check back each month to download the latest calendar and discover new ways to engage in your work.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, host Maree O’Connor is joined by Kate Jones, physiotherapist and lymphedema practitioner managing two private practices in Gippsland, Victoria. Kate shares her experiences setting up a lymphedema service as a newly trained clinician, highlighting the importance of accurate assessments, evidence-informed care, and building strong community and professional networks. Together, they explore strategies for mentoring, collaboration, and continuous learning, as well as practical tips on prioritizing equipment, managing complex cases, and providing accessible, high-quality care—particularly in regional areas. This conversation offers valuable insights for clinicians embarking on their lymphedema journey and anyone interested in strengthening their practice.

 

About our guest speaker – Kate Jones
Kate Jones is a physiotherapist and lymphedema practitioner based in Gippsland, Victoria, where she manages two multidisciplinary private practices. She completed her initial lymphedema training in 2022 and advanced lymphedema training in 2023 /2025. Kate is passionate about empowering clients through evidence-informed care and has successfully integrated lymphedema services into her practice. Kate is dedicated to supporting her community, particularly in regional areas, by providing accessible and high-quality lymphedema care.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

In this episode of Lymphoedema Insights, host Maree O’Connor is joined by Maureen McBeth, Physical Therapist and Certified Lymphedema Therapist. Maureen is passionate about preventing cancer-related lymphedema and supporting the health of cancer survivors, thrivers, and people living with chronic swelling disorders. Together, they explore the clinical applications of Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS), a technology that measures fluid and tissue composition, tracks changes over time, and provides actionable insights for patient care. From enhancing traditional assessments to motivating patients with measurable feedback, this conversation uncovers the benefits, limitations, and future potential of BIS in healthcare, offering practical ideas for clinicians and anyone interested in improving health outcomes. 

About our guest speaker - Maureen McBeth 

Maureen McBeth is a licensed physical therapist and certified lymphedema therapist with over 25 years of experience in oncology rehabilitation, clinical education, and patient advocacy. As Senior Medical Affairs Liaison at ImpediMed, she supports the integration of bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) into clinical practice for early lymphoedema detection and comprehensive body composition analysis. A nationally recognised educator, Maureen has trained clinicians across the U.S. and internationally, translating emerging evidence into practical clinical strategies. She regularly presents at major conferences and has published in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. Maureen’s work reflects a long-standing commitment to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based, patient-centred use of BIS and other technologies in cancer rehabilitation and lymphatic health.

Sponsorship:

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by Regional Health Care Group, an Australian-owned company with more than 40 years of experience in medical distribution. Regional Health Care Group supplies trusted medical consumables, contrast media, and quality capital equipment to public and private healthcare providers across Australia. With a strong commitment to clinical excellence and service, they partner with healthcare professionals to support improved patient care and outcomes.
 
Learn more at rhcg.com.au

Note: Sponsorship does not imply endorsement, and all educational content is developed independently to ensure it remains evidence-based and unbiased.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

This episode explores how exercise and health coaching can support recovery and rebuilding after breast cancer. Join physiotherapist and health coach Andy Finestone as she shares insights on the role of mindset, neuroscience, and small, meaningful habits in helping people move from surviving treatment to thriving in daily life. Whether you’re a health professional or someone navigating recovery, this conversation offers practical ideas and fresh perspectives on reconnecting with your body, motivation, and wellbeing. 

About our guest speaker: Andy Finestone 

Andy Finestone (Gild) OAM is a Physiotherapist and an Accredited ICF Coach with a focus and passion for Wellbeing and Communication. She brings a deeply holistic perspective to human performance and wellbeing, giving her a unique lens on both physical and mental resilience. 

Working in both the health and corporate space, Andy has a knack for making the latest neuroscience simple and practical. Her coaching focuses on boosting energy, lowering stress and creating sustainable, lifelong change. She helps build confidence to step into vulnerability and bring curiosity leading to more effective conversations that drive trust and impact. 

Sponsorship:

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by OPC Health, a trusted provider of compression solutions, prosthetic, orthotic, and allied health products for over 40 years. OPC partners with health professionals to deliver evidence-based products and education that support patient care and recovery.
 
For lymphoedema following breast cancer management, OPC Health offers a wide range of innovative compression solutions, from leading brands such as Juzo, Jobst and Thuasne/Mobiderm.
 
Learn more at opchealth.com.au

Note: Sponsorship does not imply endorsement, and all educational content is developed independently to ensure it remains evidence-based and unbiased.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

In this special Wounds Awareness Week edition of Lymphoedema Insights, host Maree O’Connor is joined by experienced wound clinical nurse consultant Greer Hosking to explore the vital link between chronic oedema and wound care. Together they discuss the challenges oedema presents to healing, the transformative role of compression therapy, and practical strategies for integrating oedema awareness into everyday clinical practice. From Greer’s personal journey of further education to evidence-based approaches in assessment, treatment, and long-term management, this episode offers timely and practical insights for health professionals committed to improving patient outcomes. 

About our guest speaker: Greer Hosking 

Greer Hosking is a Registered Nurse and accredited Lymphoedema Therapist specialising in upper and lower limb lymphoedema. She is the inpatient Wound Clinical Nurse Consultant at Austin Health, working across all three campuses as part of a multidisciplinary team managing wounds from minor to complex, including palliative wounds. Greer recently introduced sequential intermittent compression pumps for inpatients with lymphoedema and chronic oedema, and supports staff through the Wound Resources Nurse (WReN) program by providing education and guidance on effective wound care and product use. She has also designed and delivered wound care education through online modules, seminars, and published works, and has presented at national and international conferences. 

Sponsorship: 

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by Solventum, a global healthcare company dedicated to advancing solutions for wound care and chronic oedema management. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Solventum partners with clinicians to deliver evidence-based products and education that support improved patient outcomes.   

You can find more information at https://www.solventum.com 

Note: Sponsorship does not imply endorsement, and all educational content is developed independently to ensure it remains evidence-based and unbiased.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025

IPC in Practice: Benefits, Challenges, and Innovations with Dr. Sanderson

In Part 2, the discussion focuses on the benefits, challenges, and future innovations of IPC. Dr. Sanderson highlights the psychological benefits of IPC, particularly its ability to empower patients with self-efficacy and control over their lymphedema management. She notes that IPC can support self-management, especially for clients with limited mobility, but stresses the need for proper assessment and medical supervision. Challenges include cost, access, and training, though resources like Medi-Rent's learning hub and equipment loans can help clinicians integrate IPC into practice. Misconceptions about IPC, such as concerns about moving fluid to other areas, are addressed, with Dr. Sanderson explaining how improved technology and understanding of lymphatic pathways mitigate these risks. She also discusses innovations like hoseless devices and touch-screen interfaces, which are expected to improve IPC functionality. Finally, Dr. Sanderson advises clinicians to utilize available educational resources and try IPC themselves before prescribing it to patients.

About our guest speaker: Dr Jen Sanderson 

Jen Sanderson is a Physiotherapist with special interests in lymphoedema, pain and chronic disease. Jen has completed a PhD focussed on assessment of lymphoedema tissue composition including the pitting test and is passionate about using assessment to guide effective treatment in chronic conditions. Jen is Medi-Rent’s Clinical Lead for their range of medical devices which includes a range of compression pump products. 

Sponsorship: 

This episode of Lymphoedema Insights is proudly supported by Medi-Rent, suppliers of high-quality intermittent pneumatic compression devices for lymphoedema care. With a commitment to clinical education and patient outcomes, Medi-Rent partners with healthcare providers across Australia to deliver evidence-based solutions that support lymphoedema management.
You can find more information at https://medirent.com.au/

Note: Sponsorship does not imply endorsement, and all educational content is developed independently to ensure it remains evidence-based and unbiased.

Stay connected with Lymphoedema Education Solutions (LES)
LES offers a diverse range of professional learning opportunities – including online self-paced courses, face-to-face workshops, and accredited training modules – to help you build confidence in your lymphoedema management skills.

🌐 Visit the LES website to explore upcoming course dates and learn more: https://lymphoedemaedu.com/

👉 Subscribe to the LES monthly newsletter for updates, resources, and course announcements: https://lymphoedemaeducation.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=21477ad0021cc388b9c1d508b&id=65df668025