Identification, treatment and care of the person with chronic leg oedema due to lymphoedema

The number of people with venous leg ulcers has doubled in 10 years due to an ageing population, rising levels of obesity and falling levels of activity. An estimated 400 000 people in the UK have chronic leg oedema. This article aims to enable readers to identify lymphoedema, to manage when possible, to be aware of treatment options, to refer appropriately and to work with people to reduce risks.