Limb positioning and movement

Careful positioning of an affected limb when resting or sitting can help to prevent more swelling. You can also use gravity to help drain away excess fluid. Avoid sitting with your legs down if you can, as this causes the fluid to drain into your feet and calves. Movement of your muscles helps to push fluid around the body, so regular gentle movement can help to prevent fluid from collecting.

These tips will help you to position your affected limb correctly.

• When sitting down, rest your arm fully supported on a cushion placed on the arm of a chair.
• Try not to rest your arm above shoulder height - it may reduce blood flow to your arm and increase discomfort.
• You might find it helpful to raise your arm slightly on a pillow when you are lying down.
• Avoid carrying heavy shopping or other loads with your affected arm.
• Be careful when you use your affected arm for activities that involve a lot of repeated stretching. Some people find that too much activity can make the swelling worse.
• Do not wear clothes or jewellery that are tight fitting.
  

• It is a good idea not to cross your legs when you are sitting.
• Don’t sit with your legs down for long periods - either lie with your legs up on a settee, or have them fully supported on a footstool.
• Try not to stand still for long periods of time. If you have to stand, do the following exercises to stimulate the pump action of your muscles:
  • Raise yourself up on to your toes frequently to tense and relax your calf muscles.
  • Shift your weight from one leg to the other and transfer your weight from heels to toes, as if walking on the spot.