Edema Lab Flashcards
1
Q
What is protein rich/persistent edema?
A
- Persists 1-2 weeks after injury
- Can cause stiffness and fibrosis which deposits in spaces surrounding joints, tendons, and ligaments
- If left untreated, losses can become permanent
- Edema can be monitored and tracked through volume (can use volumeter standing or sitting) and circumference measurements
2
Q
What are the typical landmarks of the UE that are measured using a measuring tape?
A
- Finger: P3, DIP, P2, PIP, P1, MP
- Hand: distal palmer crease
- Elbow: elbow crease, 10 cm distal or proximal to elbow crease
3
Q
How soon after an injury can scar massage occur?
A
- Usually after 2 weeks or once the stitches are removed/absorbed
- The scar should be healed before beginning massage
4
Q
What does scar massage entail?
A
- Circular and back and forth motion
- Concentration on areas that do not move as easily
- Pressure should be gentle and not cause pain
- Can massage several times a day for a few minutes at a time
- Stop scar massage if there is redness, pain, or oozing from the scar
5
Q
What can edema cause?
A
- Restricts motion in joints; after an extended period of edema the joint can become stiff
- Loss of ROM
- Excess pressure in body tissues which can lead to decreased blood flow, oxygen, and nutrients that the cells need
- Decreases elimination of cell waste and if edema persists it can stretch the tissues beyond normal and make it extremely difficult to eliminate the edema
6
Q
What are some ways that edema can be controlled?
A
- If swelling is in an extremity then elevating the body part above heart level will help fluid to drain back to the trunk
- Compression in the form of elastic wraps, aquatic therapy, and commercial compression devices
- Cold therapy can help reduce edema. This includes ice packs, cold water baths or contrast baths. Combine cold therapy with elevation
- If there is no inflammation, then heat can decrease swelling by increasing the blood supply
