Compression therapy is a treatment designed to improve circulation and oxygenated blood flow. It consists of applying a type of elastic device that exerts a controlled pressure on the selected area. By compressing the limbs or other body regions, the device presses the vein walls together, which improves overall circulation and supports blood flow back toward the heart. By reducing the capillary leakage into the tissue, it helps to reduce swelling and formation of edema in edematous tissues, as well as supports the lymphatic drainage of interstitial fluid. Medical compression provides significant relief of venous and lymphatic symptoms, including leg aching, pain, the feeling of swelling, and heaviness.

Compression therapy is used to treat a wide number of conditions, including:

Chronic Venous Insufficiency — Poor blood flow, also known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), is one of the most common conditions treated with compression therapy. A 2014 estimate approximates that CVI affects about 25-40% of women and 10-20% of men. CVI is often associated with: varicose veins; injury; blood clots; pregnancy; and obesity.

Edema — A collection of fluid that causes swelling in the legs, ankles, or other areas, edema can have many causes, including: varicose veins; lymphedema; and sitting and standing for long periods. Support hose or compression stockings can help; in particular, low pressures are appropriate for reducing swelling.

Deep Vein Thrombosis — Oftentimes occurring in a leg, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) develops when a blood clot forms in one of the veins. As a clot can travel to the lungs and become life-threatening, it is considered a serious condition. Risk factors for DVT include surgery; pregnancy; and prolonged inactivity. As a preventative measure, a doctor may prescribe compression stockings. If the patient has trouble walking, they may prescribe a compression boot.

Leg Ulcers — Leg ulcers are open sores or wounds on the legs, commonly caused by diabetes. Leg ulcers are also associated with poor blood circulation and varicose veins. To treat leg ulcers, doctors may prescribe:

• An ointment to heal the sore
• A special compression bandage
• Compression stockings to prevent a recurrence

There are multiple forms of compression therapy, and while each one uses a different approach, they all have the same objective. The types include:

Compression Stockings — These are by far the most common type of compression therapy and can be purchased in stores or can be prescribed by a physician.

Compression Wraps or Bandages — The next most common option, compression wraps and bandages are frequently used in sports medicine to prevent injury and also promote better circulation.

Mechanical (Pneumatic) Compression Devices — These types of compression therapy are growing in popularity and often provide the most noticeable effects. These include wearable compression boots or compressed air devices and may be used at home or at a clinic.

REPAIR SI, Physical Therapy specializes in offering compression therapy and can help you improve your circulation and relieve your painful symptoms! Call us today or book an appointment for compression therapy, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 7146 Edinger Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647. We serve patients from Huntington Beach CA, Fountain Valley CA, Westminster CA, Costa Mesa CA, Newport Beach CA, Midway City CA, and surrounding areas. We look forward to serving you!