The Benefits of Pneumatic Compression in the Continuum of Care

Описание: Pneumatic Compression Devices (PCDs) have been prescribed for the treatment of lymphedema and chronic venous insufficiency for decades However, they are not generally covered by Medicare or private insurances for lipedema without a concurrent lymphedema diagnosis or a wound. This is despite being recognized as an effective tool to reduce or prevent several symptoms of lipedema, including fibrosis, pain, edema, as well as positively impacting quality of life. The Standard of Care for Lipedema in the United States [Herbst, et al, Phlebology, 2021] states that these devices have multiple uses and benefits in the standard conservative care of lipedema. Additionally, published case reports indicate that PCDs show benefit in recovery from lipedema reduction surgeries. PCDs can be a productive and practical tool used in conjunction with manual therapies in all phases of rehabilitation.

With the wide variety and ever-increasing numbers of features leading to improved availability and ease of use, efforts should be made to assist lipedema patients in assessing PCDs that will fit their needs and be helpful to them across the continuum of care for their diagnosis. Clinicians should be well educated on the features and benefits of these devices in order to support their patients.