The term compression describes the external application of continuous graduated pressure to a limb so that the fluid (blood and/or lymph) is moved upwards toward the heart. Compression therapy has been used for many years in the treatment of venous leg ulcers, chronic oedema, and other conditions of the lower limb, and forms the cornerstone of treatment and long-term management of these conditions.
What does compression therapy do?
Compression therapy controls or compensates for the damaged venous and/or lymphatic system by positively affecting the volume of blood in the veins and the fluid in the tissues, relieving symptoms of the lower limb. (Harding et al, 2015).
Want to know more? Visit the Compression Therapy learning module on our free-to-use Learning platform LeaRn On Demand.
