In edema treatment, which action is included as part of the MASTECCT approach?

• A. Elevation
• B. Massage with heat
• C. Surgical intervention
• D. Medication therapy

Answer: (A)

Elevation works by using gravity to move excess fluid out of the swollen limb, lowering hydrostatic pressure in the tissues and promoting venous and lymphatic return. In the MASTECCT approach, this noninvasive step helps reduce edema so that other rehab activities can proceed more effectively. Heat or massage can increase blood flow and fluid accumulation in an edematous area, so they’re not the preferred moves within this protocol. Surgical intervention and medication therapy are more invasive or pharmacologic options that fall outside this conservative management framework.