Compression therapy is a targeted technique that squeezes your limbs in an effort to get more blood to the heart. The more you can promote blood flow between your extremities and your center, the more likely you are to both reduce fatigue and heal faster. Here, we’ll look at not just what it is, but how it’s combined with additional exercises to achieve the best results. 

Compression Therapy in a Nutshell 

Compression therapy is often a must for those who are prone to blood clots or anyone with slow or sluggish blood. As a general rule, compression will start very tightly at the outer edges of the extremities and then become looser as it goes along. It can be done with anything from garments, with the most common being compression stockings, to bandages. There are even inflatable sleeves that you might see a physical therapist in Wichita use for even more precise compression (most often used before or after a major surgery). 

Compression Therapy + Stretching 

With compression therapy and stretching, a physical therapist will use stretching in addition to compression as a way to improve mobility and reduce muscle strain. The goal of the physical therapist, more than, say, purchasing stockings and combining them with at-home stretches, is to go deep into the muscles and venous system, giving you more relief and better circulation. 

A Holistic Approach to Wellness in Wichita 

In addition to better circulation and vein health, compression therapy is known to:

• Reduce swelling: Edema in the hands and legs is a major problem for many people, especially pregnant women at the tail end of their term. With compression therapy, you can reduce swelling and get back on your feet. 
• Drain lymph fluids: Lymph fluids can build up in between your cells thanks to a leak in your capillaries. Compression therapy can push these fluids back into your circulation, which can boost your overall immune system. 

If you want to learn more about compression therapy in Wichita and who it can help, contact Stretch Wichita for more information. Whether you’ve had surgery or you’ve just noticed that it takes you longer and longer to warm up, we’re here to help you explore your options!