Compression

The compression therapy is used at different times for different purposes but can be used anytime for general muscle recovery and reduced tension and stiffness. For post training reduction of lactic acid it is best used more than 2 hours after training and coupled with contrast water therapy. For swelling and fluid reduction the timing is non specific and is used on a lighter pressure for comfort to pump fluid away.

Yes you can. The compression therapy does not have a specific “anti-inflammatory” component which is important as after strength training you want to allow the muscles to be inflamed for a short period of time to help with muscle growth. Compression will help reduce lactic acid and still allow for this growth to occur.

We recommend using the compression therapy after training sessions which is determined by the frequency of your training, however for general muscle recovery and health we recommend 2-3 sessions per week.

There is not an age restriction specifically when using the compression garments, however it is required that the user is large enough that they fit the garments properly and safely to ensure they work in the desired manner. If children are too small they may be unable to use them.

Consult doctor/seek medical clearance before using compression therapy if

- Pregnant.

- Under the care of a physician or have a contraindication requiring the use of any medical control unit.

- Experiencing inflammation, an infection, pain of unknown origin, bleeding (internal or external) at or near the site of application, or if you have a wound at or near the site of application.

- Have sensitive skin.

- Acute pulmonary edema

- Acute thrombophlebitis

- Acute congestive cardiac failure

- Acute infections

- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

- Episodes of pulmonary embolism

- Wounds, lesions, or tumors at or near the site of application

- Where increased venous and lymphatic return is undesirable

- Bone fractures or dislocations at or near the site of application

The body accumulates fluid outside the circulatory system within the body and this is observed as swelling which is most commonly seen in the ankle and lower leg. When the muscles in the legs contract they squeeze fluid and push it up toward the heart. Those with reduced function due to injury or health, or poor circulation, the fluid accumulates in the lower leg. The compression boots inflate in sequential order to act similar to the muscles in nature and pump the fluid back on toward the heart and out through the lymphatic system.

You should feel a comfortable tightness during the inflation phase, however it should not be so tightly pressured that you feel any sharp pain, discomfort or tingling sensations. You should not lose feeling to your limbs at any point during the session. Stop the therapy immediately if you experience this and talk to the staff about managing your pressure settings for a desired effect.