Lower-limb oedema: assessment, treatment and challenges

The incidence and prevalence of lymphoedema and chronic oedema is increasing as a result of the ageing population and increased obesity rates. It is becoming increasingly common for long-term conditions to be managed in the community, and community nurses are highly likely to be involved in identifying and providing care for patients affected by lower-limb oedema. Oedema is frequently recognised but often not treated, and practitioners must remember that oedema is a symptom and the underlying cause needs to be established to ensure that appropriate treatment can be initiated. Many community nurses regularly see the same patients with chronic oedema for months, and even years. This article is designed to promote reflection on whether current treatment regimes are proving effective.