People who have problems with blood clots, fluid accumulation in the arms or legs, or who must remain immobile for long periods of type may need to use a type of medical pump called a sequential compression device, or lymphedema pump.
What is it?
A sequential compression device helps improve circulation in the feet, arms or legs. The device comes with a sleeve that is placed on the affected body part. The sleeve connects to an air pump. Once it's turned on, the lymphedema pump pushes air into the sleeve at varying intervals, which milks the arm or leg. It feels like a gentle squeeze. This opens up the veins and allows blood and fluid to flow more easily. Sometimes doctors refer to these pumps as intermittent pneumatic compression systems.
Who needs it?
Because being immobile for long periods of time increases the risk of blood clots, people who are having surgery (especially hip surgery or hip replacement surgery) may need these sequential compression devices. Also, people who are obese, have blood clotting problems, deep vein thrombosis, or arm or leg swelling may also find relief and better circulation if they use lymphedema pumps.
Research studies have also found these pumps to help people with a circulatory and sleep disorder called restless legs syndrome.
How much do they cost?
It depends on how many chambers they have. More chambers are more expensive, but also generally more effective. Health insurance may pay for a portion of a sequential compression device, which range from $600 to $3,000.
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