Pressotherapy: an ally for circulation and well-being

Have you ever heard of pressotherapy? This medical and aesthetic treatment is now very popular thanks to its numerous benefits for circulation and overall well-being.

Pressotherapy is a non-invasive therapeutic technique widely used in both clinical and aesthetic fields that promotes the proper lymphatic and venous circulation of the upper and lower limbs.

Thanks to gradual, controlled, and intermittent compression of the limbs and abdomen, it helps improve the functioning of the vascular and lymphatic systems, drain bodily fluids, reduce skin imperfections, and bring oxygen to the tissues by eliminating toxins.

But what exactly is pressotherapy and how does it work? Let’s find out together!

How does pressotherapy work?

Pressotherapy consists of a pumping system equipped with air chambers that inflate alternately or sequentially, pushing fluids from the bottom upward. The progressive pressure exerts a mechanical massage that stimulates lymphatic and venous circulation, simulating a manual lymphatic drainage massage and creating a wave effect starting from the extremities and moving toward the center of the body.

The main benefits of pressotherapy are:

• Reduction of swelling

• Improvement of lymphatic and venous circulation

• Prevention of substance stagnation in peripheral tissues

• Muscle toning

• Immediate sensation of well-being and pain relief

Indications for pressotherapy

Pressotherapy is indicated for both medical and aesthetic treatments. The main ones include:

• Lymphedema

• Edema

• Venous insufficiency

• Venous ulcers

• Muscle fatigue

• Heavy legs sensation

• Post-workout recovery

• Cellulite

Commonly treated body areas with pressotherapy

Pressotherapy for legs and feet
Legs and feet are the most frequently treated areas with pressotherapy. This treatment is particularly effective in relieving the sensation of heaviness and swelling in the legs, improving circulation and tissue oxygenation, reducing water retention, and eliminating toxins.

Pressotherapy for abdomen and hips
The abdominal area and hips can benefit from pressotherapy to reduce swelling, improve circulation, and contribute to a more defined silhouette.

Pressotherapy for arms
Arms can be treated with pressotherapy to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote lymphatic drainage.

How does a pressotherapy session proceed?

Pressotherapy treatments can be done comfortably at home. Nevertheless, we always recommend consulting your doctor to undergo therapy following the parameters best suited to your condition. Normally, therapy is recommended once a day for a 30-day cycle. Timing and pressure values vary depending on the pathology to be treated.

The steps to start pressotherapy correctly are very simple:

1. Connect the tube connector to the pressotherapy device.

2. Attach the tubes to the leg cuffs, abdominal belt, or arm cuffs and wear the applicators.

3. Plug the device into the power outlet.

4. Set the pressure and treatment time.

If the pressotherapy session is done correctly, the massage sensation is pleasant and not painful. Otherwise, we recommend stopping the treatment and contacting your specialist doctor.

At the end of the treatment, you might experience the draining effect of pressotherapy — you may feel the need to rehydrate or urinate. This is perfectly normal.

Home pressotherapy vs. professional pressotherapy

There are pressotherapy devices for home use, but it’s important to understand the differences compared to professional treatments:

Home pressotherapy:

• More cost-effective in the long term

• Flexibility of use (therapy whenever you want)

• Absolute privacy during your session

• Generally less powerful than professional devices

• Requires some knowledge for effective and safe use. For this reason, rely on your trusted orthopedic healthcare provider.

Professional pressotherapy:

• More advanced and powerful devices

• Supervision by a qualified professional

• Possibility to combine with other treatments

The choice between the two depends on individual needs, the condition to be treated, and medical advice.

Doing pressotherapy at home is possible thanks to certified medical devices designed for home therapy, allowing you to relax on your couch while reading a book or watching TV.

Certified CE-marked medical devices designed specifically for home use are available on the market. Make sure the devices are certified and easy to use.

Contraindications

Despite the numerous benefits, pressotherapy is not suitable for everyone. Some contraindications include:

• People with implanted medical devices

• Deep vein thrombosis or phlebitis

• Severe heart failure

• Skin infections or open wounds in the treatment area

• Pregnancy

• Neoplasms

• Children and adolescents under 18 years old

It is essential to consult a doctor before starting pressotherapy, especially if you have preexisting medical conditions.

Compression on legs, arms, and abdomen should feel pleasant, like a massage, and should not cause pain. Otherwise, stop treatment and contact your specialist immediately.

Conclusions

Pressotherapy represents an innovative and non-invasive approach to improve circulation, reduce swelling, and promote overall well-being. Whether it’s to relieve the sensation of heavy legs, fight cellulite, or manage medical conditions like lymphedema, this technique offers a wide range of applications.

However, as with any treatment, it is crucial to approach pressotherapy with awareness and under the guidance of qualified professionals.

Always consult a doctor before starting a treatment cycle, especially if you have preexisting conditions, to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Integrating pressotherapy into a comprehensive wellness approach—including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and proper stress management—can maximize benefits and enhance quality of life.

Pressotherapy is not just a treatment but an investment in your well-being—a step toward a healthier body and a calmer mind.

Find out if pressotherapy could be the right solution for you by consulting a healthcare professional and starting your journey toward optimal circulation and renewed wellness.

Still have doubts? Contact us!
We are available at 035/212110 from Monday to Saturday, 9:00–12:30 and 15:00–19:00, or by email at info@ortopediazambelli.it