Compression therapy is a specialized therapy that uses controlled pressure to increase blood flow in your legs and arms as well as improve blood flow to the heart while also supporting veins and decreasing swelling. Common types of compression include compression stockings, compression wraps (bandages), mechanical compression devices (i.e., a wearable compression boot or compressed air device used at a facility by trained professionals such as Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness).

We explain the benefits of compression therapy, what symptoms it treats, and what you can expect during a compression therapy treatment at Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness. 

What are the benefits of compression therapy?

Compression therapy is well-researched in the medical community and has a proven track record of success in providing relief and the prevention of more serious health issues. Some of the benefits include:

  • Prevention of leg swelling for individuals who stand or sit for long periods
  • Management of varicose veins and other leg symptoms (especially during pregnancy)
  • Prevention of venous thromboembolism in immobile individuals
  • Healing and prevention of leg ulcers
  • Maintenance therapy for lymphedema
  • Reduced chronic venous insufficiency and ulcer recurrence in older adults
  • Treatment of Edema (fluid collection that causes swelling in the legs, ankles, and other areas caused by varicose veins, lymphedema, and/or sitting or standing for too long)

Compression therapy has become increasingly popular among athletes as it improves performance, reduces soreness after exercise, and reduces the risk of blood clots. 

When should I avoid compression therapy?

As you can see, there are a lot of benefits to using compression therapy. However, it is not for everyone. If any of the following apply to you, avoid compression therapy or speak to your doctor first:

  • Skin condition that makes skin fragile
  • Cellulitis
  • Open sores
  • Enlarged leg that keeps compression gear from safely fitting
  • Lack of sensation in the leg
  • Severe peripheral neuropathy
  • Peripheral arterial disease

What are the signs and symptoms that would make compression therapy is necessary?

The most obvious symptom that would require compression therapy is lymphedema, swelling that occurs in one or both or your arms of legs that is caused by a blockage in your lymphatic system. The blockage prevents lymph fluid from draining well, and the fluid leads to swelling.

The lymphatic system is crucial to the immune system as it circulates protein-rich lymph fluid throughout your body and collects and gets rid of harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and waste products.

Common symptoms of lymphedema include:

  • Swelling of part of all of your arm or leg, including fingers and toes
  • A feeling of heaviness or tightness
  • Restricted range of motion
  • Aching or discomfort
  • Recurring infections
  • Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

Swelling caused by lymphedema ranges from mild cases where the swelling is barely noticeable to severe cases where it becomes difficult to use the affected limb.

What can I expect at a compression therapy treatment?

At Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness, we utilize several forms of compression therapy, however, we specialize in the NormaTec compression boot. Rather than using static compression, this state-of-the-art pneumatic compression technology uses a pulsing action which more effectively mimics the muscle pump of the legs or arms. Widely used by athletes after an intense performance, it has five chambers to help target specific areas of the body and comes in both short and long leg boots to fit a wide range of heights, from 5’ up to 6’5”.

Each NormaTec compression boot therapy session is performed at our St. Petersburg chiropractic and wellness center and typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes. The session will begin with a “pre-inflate cycle” where the limbs are molded to the shape of the boot. After 90 seconds, the compression will start (similar to a kneading massage). Each segment will first compress in a pulsing manner and then release. This process repeats over and over until it reaches the full length of the limb.

Try Compression Therapy at Burghealth Chiropractic & Wellness!

Interested in trying out compression therapy at our St. Petersburg chiropractic and wellness center? Our chiropractic care specialists will create a plan that meets your specific needs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please call us at (727) 289-9148.


 


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Monday
8:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Tuesday
8:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Wednesday
8:30 am - 12:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Thursday
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