Swelling in an affected limb after a stroke
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Swelling in an affected limb after a stroke
Swelling develops when the affected arm or leg cannot move for a long period of time. A large amount of swelling:
- Causes decreased blood flow in the limb, which increases your chance of developing skin sores (pressure sores).
- Limits movement of the limb, which increases your chance of developing stiffening of the joint (contracture).
- Causes pain and discomfort in and around the swollen tissues.
Some tips to prevent swelling in your affected arm or leg include the following:
- Elevate the affected arm or leg. If your arm hangs down at your side for long periods of time, you will have more swelling in the arm.
- If swelling develops, massage your arm or leg and wear elastic stockings or gloves.
Credits
| Author | Monica Rhodes |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Michele Cronen |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation |
| Last Updated | July 6, 2007 |
| Last updated: | July 06, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine, Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Michele Cronen |
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