What is compression therapy?
Graduated compression applies its highest pressure at the ankle and decreases up the leg. That gradient helps the calf muscle pump return blood and lymph upward, reduces the pressure transmitted to the skin, and limits fluid leaking into the tissues. It is a treatment in its own right, and it also protects the result of vein procedures.
Because compression alters blood flow, it has to be prescribed after assessment. In particular, arterial supply must be checked before firm compression is applied to a leg — compressing an already ischaemic limb causes harm. That check is why compression should follow a vascular assessment rather than a shop counter.
Symptoms to watch for
- Aching, heavy legs and ankle swelling by the end of the day
- Varicose veins with skin changes at the ankle
- A healed or open venous leg ulcer
- Persistent swelling after deep vein thrombosis
- Lymphoedema of the arm or leg
- Swelling in pregnancy or with prolonged standing at work
When to seek urgent care
Numbness, increasing pain, or toes turning blue or white under compression means it must be removed and reviewed the same day.
How it is diagnosed
Investigation is chosen to answer a specific question rather than as a blanket screen. For compression therapy that usually means:
- Vascular assessment including ankle-brachial index before compression is applied
- Venous duplex ultrasound to identify reflux or obstruction
- Limb measurement at defined points for correct garment sizing
- Skin assessment for fragility, eczema, ulceration and infection
- Review of dexterity and ability to apply the garment, which decides what is realistic
Treatment options at Siva Sakthi
Which of these applies to you depends on what the assessment shows. The options are discussed with you, including what each involves and what recovery looks like.
- Class I – light compressionFor mild aching, early varicose veins, prolonged standing and travel-related swelling.
- Class II – medium compressionThe usual prescription for symptomatic varicose veins, after ablation, and after deep vein thrombosis.
- Class III – strong compressionFor severe chronic venous insufficiency, healed ulcers and established lymphoedema, where the skin and arterial supply allow it.
- Multilayer compression bandagingApplied by trained staff for active venous ulcers and for the reduction phase of lymphoedema.
- Intermittent pneumatic compressionA pump inflates chambers in sequence to assist venous and lymphatic return, used as an adjunct.
- Adjustable wrap devicesVelcro wraps are an alternative where hand strength or limb shape makes stockings impractical.
- Fitting and reviewGarments are measured to the limb, replaced roughly every three to six months as elasticity is lost, and reviewed for comfort and compliance.
Common questions
Usually put on before getting out of bed and removed at night, since swelling accumulates during the day. Your prescription may differ, particularly with ulceration or lymphoedema.
Light support hosiery is sold freely, but medical compression should follow an arterial check and correct measurement. Firm compression on a leg with poor arterial supply can cause tissue damage.
They lose elastic recoil with washing and wear, typically needing replacement every three to six months. A garment that has become easy to pull on is no longer delivering its rated pressure.
Book a consultation in Guntur
Compression Therapy is assessed and treated by Dr. Vijay Kumar Vishnumolakala, MS, MCh, at our Kothapeta clinic. Request an appointment or call +91 00000 00000.