Compression Pumps

By Author: Keira Mulvaney
Total Articles: 1
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Compression Pumps are devices use by people affected by lymphedema and other hemostatic conditions. People with lymphedema experience fluid build-up in various locations throughout the body; the legs, arms, and feet being the most common areas. A compression pump is an inflatable garment worn on affected areas designed to stimulate circulation thereby relieving excess fluid build-up.
People who experience lymphedema related swelling are subjected to pain and discomfort that often prevents them from performing common daily tasks. Compression pumps, also known as lymphedema pumps or pneumatic compression devices, are the most widely prescribed treatment to reduce uncomfortable swelling in lymphedema patients. The purpose of the compression pump is to encourage excess fluids to leave the swollen areas and reunite with the lymphatic system to resume their natural course through the body.
Many people have suffered without relief for years, but recent discoveries regarding compression pumps and therapies have granted numerous lymphedema patients a reprieve from associated pain. The advancements in compression pump treatments ...
... have greatly decreased the adverse effects of untreated lymphedema; various problems that include bacterial infections gangrene, permanent disfigurement, and even amputations.
Compression pump therapies have improved the lifestyles of lymphedema patients by improving their ability to perform day-to-day activities and return to their social practices such as getting together with family and friends. Another way that compression pumps can assist is through the relief of swelling physicians can place their patients on necessary exercise programs that improve overall health.
There are a several choices to consider when deciding on the best compression for a patient. The most basic of choices is the single chamber non-programmable compression pump which consists of a single chamber that is inflated once while applying a uniform pressure. The next compression pump is a multi-chamber non-programmable pump which possesses multiple chambers ranging from 2 to 12, sometimes more. The chambers in this compression pump are inflated to a fixed point in a sequential pattern. The multiple chambers can have a uniform set pressure throughout all chambers or can be set for a gradient pressure range but lack the ability to readjust pressure in individual chambers manually.
The latest generations of compression pumps consist of single or multi-chamber programmable pumps. The programmable compression pumps offer essentially the same structure as the non-programmable pumps but with a significant difference; programmable compression pumps can be manually adjusted on a per chamber basis. Programmable compression pumps also allow for adjustment in the frequency and length of inflation cycles. Programmable compression pumps are often preferred among patients who may have extenuating circumstances such as scarring, highly sensitive skin, and/or contractures.
Whatever compression pump a patient and physician agree upon, there are a variety of service that can provide the appropriate compression device. Most services will work with a client to handle Medicare or insurance paperwork as well as offer solutions for the uninsured or underinsured.
Keira Mulvaney is a freelance writer for Spectrum Healthcare, a provider of lymphedema products and compression pumps, as well as other therapy products. Please visit www.spectrumhealthcare.net to learn more about our selection of treatment for venous insufficiency, peripheral artery disease treatment and compression therapy products.