The effectiveness of Pneumatic Compression Therapy - NortonSchool

1. The Effectiveness Of Pneumatic Compression Therapy In its simplest form, pneumatic compression therapy involves applying a pneumatic garment to an extremity. Arm wraps and leg wraps are some of the most common examples of garments used in compression therapy for lymphedema. They are attached to an air pump, which deflates and inflates them in a calibrated, carefully timed sequenced manner. Although the practice is often used for lymphedema, it is also a helpful treatment for other conditions. There are three main types of compression therapies: lymphatic, arterial, and vascular. Each one is indicated for certain types of treatment. Understanding each modality and its applications is essential so you can identify the right equipment and procedure for specific compression needs. This will also prevent you from relying on generic terms such as ‘compression booties’ so you can provide a more detailed description to guide caregivers and nurses on what needs to be done. Styles As you pursue lymphedema therapy certification, you’ll learn that the systems are available in two distinct styles: Sequential compression Sequential compression uses sleeves with usually three or four chambers. Some manufacturers may provide garments with up to 12 chambers. The chambers inflate distally to proximally assure complete and thorough forcing of lymphatic fluids back into the thoracic duct and the bloodstream. Some sequential systems have a calibrated air pump to provide separate air hoses to every chamber. Many systems are made that way to enable separate pressure calibration in each chamber and therefore make compression therapy for lymphedema more effective. Other sequential systems simply have every chamber inflated to factory pre-set pressures. They are more popular and effective than intermittent compression and less costly than equipment that requires careful calibration for every individual chamber. Some manufacturers are making economical versions called ‘gradient sequential compression,’ where a sleeve is configured with chambers containing internal valves bleeding one into another. It provides the same therapeutic result without the need for an air pump to provide multiple air outlets with varying pressures

2. Intermittent compression In intermittent compression, the whole wrap or sleeve deflates and inflates. There are no chambers in the sleeve to sequentially inflate. It is typically the first modality considered because of its slightly lower cost. However, if intermittent compression cannot achieve the desired clinical results, you may need to consider sequential compression, which may be more effective. Take note that venous style compression and lymphatic style compression are indicated for treating slow-healing, chronic wounds like venous stasis ulcers. However, it’s mostly controversial among wound care specialists. Important things to know Compression therapy for lymphedema isn’t for everyone. It should not be given to patients with suspected pre-existing Deep Vein Thrombosis or presumptive evidence of Congestive Heart Failure as it could put them at risk of a serious injury or death. Compression is still standard therapy for those with chronic venous diseases, but it requires careful procedure and the proper equipment to make it effective. Venous disease may not be curable, but the right therapies should help alleviate the symptoms. If you’re interested in getting lymphedema therapy certification, consider signing up for the courses at Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy.