At Therapeutics, we’re excited to be trialling the use of compression leg devices, and we believe many of our clients could benefit from this innovative approach. These devices, often called recovery boots or intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC), are designed to help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and speed up recovery after injury or surgery.
How do compression boots work?
Compression boots consist of inflatable sleeves that wrap around your legs. A gentle pump controls the inflation and deflation of these chambers in a rhythmic, sequential pattern, typically starting at the feet and moving up towards the thighs. This process mimics how your muscles work to pump blood and lymphatic fluid back to your heart, encouraging better circulation and helping your body recover more efficiently.
Benefits of compression therapy
One of the main advantages of this therapy is enhanced blood flow. By moving blood out of tired muscles more quickly, compression boots help clear away metabolic waste products like lactic acid, which build up after exercise or injury. This can lead to a reduction in swelling and inflammation, helping you feel more comfortable and supporting tissue repair. Many clients also find that regular use of compression therapy decreases muscle soreness and stiffness, assisting in the recovery process. Additionally, the rhythmic pumping encourages lymphatic drainage, aiding in the removal of excess fluids and toxins from your limbs.
Who can benefit?
We see this technology as a valuable addition to a variety of treatment plans. Athletes recovering from strains, sprains, or intensive training sessions can enjoy faster swelling reduction and more effective muscle recovery. Post-surgery patients, especially those who have had joint procedures, might find that compression therapy reduces swelling and minimises the risk of blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It can also be helpful for individuals managing chronic swelling conditions like lymphedema, as part of a broader treatment strategy.
What to expect during a session
A typical session usually lasts between 20 and 30 minutes. During this time, you’ll recline comfortably while the therapist fits the boots onto your legs.
The pressure settings are tailored to your needs and comfort, and many clients report a soothing pulsing sensation as the device works. For best results, we often recommend combining compression therapy with other treatments, including targeted exercises, manual therapy, or mobility work. Once you’re familiar with how it feels, you can choose to use the boots before or after your physiotherapy sessions to enhance your recovery.
Interested in trying compression therapy?
If you’re curious about incorporating compression therapy into your treatment, we’re here to help. Our team will work with you to personalise the approach, making sure you get the most out of this supportive technology for your health and wellbeing.
Call 023 8065 3707 to arrange a session with our compression boots. You can find out more about them on the Pulsio website.
