How to Measure Brawny Edema

Edema can be pitting or brawny (non-pitting). Both conditions are caused by the formation of blood clots in the veins of the arms and legs due to damaged valves and scar tissue. The way to test for brawny edema is to attempt a rebound tenderness test. This test measures the the refill time for indented tissue to return to its normal shape. From these observations, it is determined whether a case of edema is pitting edema or brawny edema.

Instructions

• 1

  Find the affected site and use your thumb to press over the bony surface with even and consecutive pressure for 5 to 10 seconds. The location would be the tibia or fibula if the condition is in the leg, the sacrum if swelling is in the lower back (between the hips) or the sternum if the edema is in the chest area.

• 2

  Release pressure after 5 to 10 seconds.

• 3

  Observe how long it takes for the skin to rebound to its normal shape. If you are able to perform this test and make an indention in the swollen site, you have a case of pitting edema. If the skin is so swollen and taut that you cannot make an indention in the skin, you have a case of brawny/non-pitting edema.