Final answer:
Elevation is a recommended therapy for lymphedema as it assists in the drainage of lymph fluid, aiding in the reduction of swelling. The correct answer is option A.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lymphedema, which is swelling due to the build-up of lymph fluid in the body, can indeed be relieved by elevation. Elevation of the affected part assists in drainage and is one of the therapies recommended to reduce the effects of this condition. This technique works by utilizing gravity to help move the lymph fluid out of the affected tissue towards the center of the body where it can be more effectively processed and removed. Therapy for edema more generally also includes exercises, massage, compression of affected areas, and reducing salt intake to minimize water retention.
In lymphedema, the elevation of the extremity or diuretic therapy is inadequate and does not resolve the swelling. During the beginning stages, pitting is clear, the skin is soft, and limb elevation assists in resolving the edema.
Therapy
Specialized lymphedema therapists can teach you about techniques and equipment that can help reduce lymphedema swelling. Examples include:
Exercises :-Gentle contraction of the muscles in the arm or leg can help move the excess fluid out of the swollen limb.
Manual lymph drainage :- Therapists trained in this massage-like technique use very light pressure to move the trapped fluid in the swollen limb toward an area with working lymph vessels. People should avoid manual lymph drainage if they have a skin infection, blood clots or active cancer in the affected limb.
Compression bandages :-Using low-stretch bandages to wrap the entire limb encourages lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body.