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The IPC principle
Intermittent (alternating) compression, which is not generated through manual massage
but rather by a device, is known in medicine as intermittent pneumatic compression, or
IPC. It uses the principle of pneumatic alternating pressures. It is prescribed by doctors
for the treatment of venous or lymphatic diseases. When used to prevent thrombosis
and for sports injuries, it does not carry the risks found in medication-based treatment.
The IPC simulates the function of the natural muscle pumps found in the human body.
Air is pumped with alternating pressure into double-walled leg cuffs for example. The
pressure is increased and decreased in defined time segments. It should be possi
-
ble to adjust the pressure level to suit the user and the pressure must never exceed
100 mmHg. The treatment duration and frequency depend on the person's condition
when used for cosmetic purposes, or as recommended by the doctor when used for
medical reasons. However, the treatment should last for at least 20 minutes. Any medi-
cal use should, of course, be supervised by a doctor.
The shape and type of cuff used is important. Due to the proven importance of the
draining of the network of veins in the sole, the cuff should cover both the entire leg and
the foot.
The rhythmic increase and decrease in pressure on the tissue leads to water and pro-
tein being pumped out of the interstitial tissue. If the patient has a medical indication,
a compression dressing should be applied or a surgical stocking should be worn after
using the IPC as the residual protein causes blood serum to flow from the capillaries
into the tissue after an IPC treatment session. This measure prevents this flow occur
-
ring. These measures do not need to be taken if you simply remain lying down after
treatment. When using the equipment at home it therefore makes sense to use it before
bedtime.
Benefits of the IPC
• Improvement of venous and lymphatic macrocirculation through the passive activa-
tion of the natural muscle pump
•
Improvement of blood flow characteristics
•
Positive flow-mechanical effects
• Considerable boost to the wound healing process
• Can promote the healing of lower-leg ulcers
•
Favourable influence on lymphatic fistulas
• Carries a lower risk than other methods
• Pain-free, comfortable, uncomplicated and excellent tolerability
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