Pressotherapy at KINETIKA
Pressotherapy — also known as intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) — uses inflatable garments that apply sequential, graduated pressure from distal to proximal along the limb. This mimics and amplifies the body’s natural lymphatic pumping mechanism, accelerating fluid movement out of swollen or congested tissue.
How Pressotherapy Works
The pressotherapy garment inflates in segments, starting at the foot or hand and progressing sequentially toward the trunk. This sequential compression creates a mechanical wave that:
- Pushes interstitial fluid and lymph along the lymphatic vessels toward the lymph nodes
- Reduces oedema and tissue swelling by mobilising accumulated fluid
- Stimulates venous return, reducing venous stasis
- Activates local circulation and tissue metabolism
- Reduces tissue tension and associated discomfort
Clinical Applications
Post-Injury and Post-Surgical Oedema
Swelling following musculoskeletal injury or surgery is a significant barrier to rehabilitation. It reduces range of motion, inhibits muscle activation, and prolongs pain. Pressotherapy accelerates oedema clearance, allowing earlier return to active rehabilitation.
Lymphoedema Management
For patients with lymphoedema — chronic swelling due to lymphatic system dysfunction following cancer treatment, surgery, or infection — pressotherapy is a core component of complex decongestive therapy alongside manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging, and exercise.
Sports Recovery
Pressotherapy is widely used in professional sport for recovery between training sessions and competition. The enhanced clearance of metabolic waste products and reduction in post-exercise muscle soreness allows athletes to maintain higher training loads with less recovery time.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Sequential compression reduces venous pressure and stasis in patients with chronic venous insufficiency, reducing discomfort, leg fatigue, and the risk of deep vein thrombosis.
What to Expect
Pressotherapy is completely comfortable — patients often find the rhythmic compression deeply relaxing. Sessions typically last 30–45 minutes. You remain lying or seated during treatment. The garments are applied over light clothing or directly to the skin. Most patients notice measurable reduction in swelling and improved tissue mobility following the session.