The impact of Physical Therapist or Physiotherapist in the treatment of Edema

What is edema?

Edema is a medical condition characterized by swelling in the body’s tissues, caused by an accumulation of excess fluid in the interstitial spaces surrounding cells and organs. This kind of swelling can occur in a specific areas such as the lower limbs (legs) or the chest. The areas can be generalized, affecting the entire body. Edema can also range from a minor inconvenience to a sign of a serious underlying medical condition, such as heart failure, kidney disease or liver problems.

Edema can affect anyone but the condition mostly affect pregnant women and adults ranging from 60years and above. Edema is common because there are many causes associated with the condition. Mild cases of edema go away on their own.

The 3 most common areas for edema which is sometimes is classified as the types of edema are:

1. Peripheral edema: this is swelling in the hands and feet, legs, or ankles.
2. Pulmonary edema: this is fluid buildup in the legs
3. Ascites edema: this is fluid accumulating in the abdomen

 

Causes of Edema:

• Liver cirrhosis
• Heart Failure
• Kidney diseases
• Pregnancy
• Lymphedema
• Weakened valves of the veins
• Excessive salt intake
• Sunburn
• Side effect of medications
• Poor nutrition
• Allergic reaction
• Infections
• Clots
• Trauma
• Gravity

Note: Edema can be a symptom of an underlying condition, so it’s essential to have a medical professional diagnose the cause to ensure proper treatment.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Edema:

• Puffiness or swelling of the affected tissue
• A dent or pit left when the swollen area is pressed
• Stiffness or pain in the affected joints
• Skin that appears stretched or shiny
• Clothing or jewelry feeling tight

 

Management and Treatment for Edema

Treatment for edema varies based on the cause especially if the cause relates to an underlying health condition. Irrespective of the cause, one department you cannot skip in the treatment or management of edema is the Physical Therapy or Physiotherapy Department.

Physical therapy or physiotherapy for edema treatment involves exercises to move the lymphatic fluid, such as ankle pumps, calf raises, and hip flexion. Elevation of the legs, compression socks, and techniques like Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) are also key physical interventions. A physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises and provide a customized treatment plan to reduce swelling and manage fluid buildup.

The following exercise can help to pump fluid out of the legs and can often be done while lying down or sitting.

• Ankle Pumps: While lying down, extend your legs and pump your feet up and down, moving the fluid out of the calves.
• Calf Raises: Standing or sitting, rise up onto your tiptoes and then lower your heels.
• Hip Flexion: While lying on your back, lift your knee towards your chest or kick one leg straight up.
• Butt Squeezes: Squeeze your buttocks muscles together and hold for a few seconds, which helps with fluid movement from the trunk down to the legs.
• Deep Breathing:
• Start by practicing deep diaphragmatic breathing to improve overall fluid movement.

 

Other physical therapy techniques such as:

• Elevation: Lie down and elevate your legs above your heart to help gravity move fluid away from the legs.
• Compression Therapy: Wear compression socks or stockings to apply gentle pressure and prevent fluid from accumulating.
• Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD): A gentle massage technique used by therapists to move congested fluid along the lymphatic pathways.
• Kinesiology Taping: Elastic straps are used to help move edema and reduce pain.

 

Note: there are some considerations to be made, consult a health professional or your doctor when signs and symptoms prevails.  A physical therapist can provide personalized exercises and techniques tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Esther’s Place Well-Being Hub for a personalized therapeutic modality design to meet your goals.