What does it mean when pressing on the leg leaves a white indentation, and what should be done about it?

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, a white indentation left after pressing on the leg may be caused by prolonged standing or sitting, excessive water intake, cardiac edema, renal edema, or deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs. Depending on the specific situation, improvement can be achieved through general care, medication, surgical treatment, or other methods. It is advisable to maintain moderate physical activity regularly and avoid remaining stationary for long periods; also, control daily fluid intake and salt consumption.

Generally, a white indentation left after pressing on the leg may be caused by prolonged standing or sitting, excessive water intake, cardiogenic edema, nephrogenic edema, or lower limb deep vein thrombosis. Depending on the specific situation, improvements can be achieved through general care, medication, or surgical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Prolonged Standing or Sitting

Remaining in the same position for extended periods obstructs venous return in the lower limbs, leading to blood stasis and increased interstitial fluid, which results in white indentations upon pressure. It is recommended to stand up and move around regularly, elevate the legs to promote circulation, and wear loose clothing to avoid compressing the legs.

2. Excessive Water Intake

Drinking large amounts of water in a short time beyond the body's metabolic capacity can overwhelm kidney excretion, causing excess fluid to leak into tissue spaces and trigger edema. Water intake should be controlled—drink smaller amounts more frequently—and avoid consuming large volumes before bedtime.

3. Cardiogenic Edema

Reduced heart function impedes venous blood from returning to the heart, increasing venous pressure in the lower limbs and causing leakage of interstitial fluid that leads to edema. Under medical guidance, medications such as furosemide tablets, spironolactone tablets, and digoxin tablets may be prescribed. Avoid strenuous physical activity.

4. Nephrogenic Edema

Impaired kidney filtration function causes retention of water and sodium in the body, resulting in fluid accumulation in tissue spaces and subsequent edema. Follow medical advice to take hydrochlorothiazide tablets, valsartan capsules, or nephritis recovery tablets, and maintain a low-salt diet to reduce kidney strain.

5. Lower Limb Deep Vein Thrombosis

Slow blood flow or abnormal coagulation in the lower limb veins can lead to clot formation, obstructing venous return and causing edema. Immediate medical attention is required; treatment may include surgical removal of the deep vein thrombus, followed by postoperative use of rivaroxaban tablets as directed.

In daily life, maintain moderate physical activity and avoid prolonged immobility; control daily water and salt intake; monitor heart and kidney health, and undergo regular check-ups. If leg swelling persists or is accompanied by pain, seek prompt medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause.

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