The use of leg elevation in the treatment of chronic peripheral oedema

Chronic peripheral oedema is a common long-term condition, with conflicting evidence on how it is best managed. It is crucial to establish the cause of the oedema to decide on the most appropriate intervention for its management. If the oedema is not managed, it can lead to unwanted complications for the service user. The District Nurse (DN) is pivotal in the management of patients with long-term conditions, both directly and indirectly. It is important that a multi-disciplinary approach is used, although nurses are now more autonomous due to advances in practice. The present study focuses on leg elevation as a form of intervention in the treatment of chronic peripheral oedema. As with any intervention, there are some risks with leg elevation that must be considered. This should be disseminated and monitored effectively.