Lymphoedema is a medical condition that requires professional diagnosis and management. This page is for informational purposes only. Before using any pressotherapy device for lymphoedema, you must consult your GP, lymphoedema nurse, or specialist. Home devices are a complement to professional treatment, not a replacement.
See our contraindications page for conditions where pressotherapy should NOT be used.
What is lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is chronic swelling caused by a build-up of lymph fluid in the body's tissues. It most commonly affects the legs or arms and can result from damage to the lymphatic system (secondary lymphoedema, often after cancer treatment) or develop without an obvious cause (primary lymphoedema).
The condition affects an estimated 200,000 people in the UK, though the actual number is likely much higher as many cases go undiagnosed. It cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively with the right combination of treatments.
How pressotherapy helps
Pneumatic compression devices (PCDs) have been used in clinical settings to manage lymphoedema for decades. They work by applying sequential pressure to the affected limb, gently squeezing fluid from the extremities back towards the body's core, where it can be processed by healthy lymph nodes.
Pneumatic compression is recommended by the NHS as part of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) for lymphoedema management. Clinical studies show that regular use can reduce limb volume, improve skin condition, and provide symptomatic relief.
A 2020 Cochrane review found that intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) provides modest but meaningful reductions in limb volume when used alongside other treatments like manual lymphatic drainage and compression garments.
Key benefits for lymphoedema patients
- Reduced swelling - Sequential compression moves excess fluid out of the affected limb, reducing volume and discomfort.
- Improved skin condition - Better fluid drainage reduces skin tightness and the risk of infections like cellulitis.
- Daily self-management - A home device lets you maintain treatment between clinic visits, which is especially valuable given limited NHS lymphoedema services.
- Comfort and mobility - Reducing swelling improves range of motion and makes daily activities easier.
- Complementary to MLD - Used alongside manual lymphatic drainage, compression garments, and exercise for the best results.
Home devices vs clinical machines
Clinical-grade pneumatic compression devices used in hospitals typically have more chambers (8-12), finer pressure control, and cost thousands of pounds. Consumer devices on Amazon have fewer chambers (3-6) and simpler controls, but many users report meaningful improvements in their symptoms.
The key differences:
- Chambers: More chambers = smoother, more graduated compression. Clinical devices have 8-12; consumer devices have 3-6.
- Pressure control: Clinical devices offer precise mmHg settings. Consumer devices have general low/medium/high settings.
- Coverage: Look for devices that cover the full leg from foot to thigh. Calf-only devices are not suitable for lymphoedema management.
- Cost: Consumer devices range from 60-300. Clinical-grade home units from companies like LymphAssist or Haddenham start from 500+.
For more on this topic, see our home vs clinic comparison.
How to use safely
If your lymphoedema specialist has approved home pressotherapy, follow these guidelines:
- Start low. Begin with the lowest pressure setting and shortest duration. Increase gradually over weeks as your body adapts.
- 20-30 minutes per session. Most guidelines recommend sessions of 20-30 minutes. Longer is not necessarily better - always follow your specialist's advice.
- Elevate your legs. Use the device while lying down with your legs slightly elevated for best results.
- Combine with compression garments. Wear your compression stockings or bandages after the session to maintain the reduction in swelling.
- Monitor your skin. Check for any redness, irritation, or changes in skin condition. Stop immediately if you notice anything unusual.
- Keep a diary. Track your sessions, pressure settings, and any changes in limb measurements. This helps you and your specialist adjust your treatment plan.
Do not use pressotherapy if you have any of the following: active infection or cellulitis in the affected limb, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), heart failure, active cancer in the affected area, or open wounds on the limb. Always check with your specialist before starting.
NHS access and funding
In some cases, your lymphoedema clinic may be able to loan or prescribe a pneumatic compression device for home use through the NHS. This varies significantly by area and is subject to local funding decisions.
If you're considering purchasing your own device, discuss this with your lymphoedema specialist first. They can advise on appropriate pressure settings and ensure a home device is suitable for your specific condition.
What to look for
For lymphoedema management, prioritise these features:
- Full-leg coverage (foot to thigh) - essential for lower-limb lymphoedema
- Multiple chambers (5-6 minimum) - provides smoother sequential compression
- Adjustable pressure - you need to be able to start low and increase gradually
- Timer function - auto-shutoff after set duration prevents overuse
- Good durability - you'll use this daily, so check reviews for longevity