EQUIPMENT to help patients recovering from cancer treatment has been donated to Airedale Hospital.

The so-called Physiopod has been handed over to the hospital’s lymphoedema team, by the Friends of Airedale.

The machine uses vibrations to soften tissue which has swelled and hardened due to lymphoedema caused by cancer treatments.

Helen Davidson, lymphoedema lead nurse specialist at the hospital, said: “This piece of equipment allows us to offer blocks of treatment to patients to reduce fibrosis, the thickening and scarring of connective tissue.

“The method used by the Physiopod machine is gentle, non-invasive and even relaxing – and gives much quicker results than manual massage. The feedback we’ve had from patients so far has been incredibly positive. It’s making a real difference to their quality of life.”

Eileen Proud, Friends of Airedale president, said the charity was “always delighted” to be able to donate important pieces of equipment.

“We’re glad that this Physiopod will help lymphoedema patients recover more quickly,” she added.