Pressotherapy is generally safe for healthy users at sensible pressures, but it is not for everyone. If you have a blood clot, certain heart or circulation conditions, infection or injury in the legs, or are pregnant, check with your doctor before using it. This page is general information, not medical advice.
Generally safe, with sensible limits
For most healthy adults, using a home pressotherapy device at a comfortable pressure for a normal session is well tolerated. The key is to build up gradually, keep the pressure firm but never painful, and stop if anything feels wrong. As with any wellness device, a little common sense goes a long way.
Who should check with a doctor first
Some people should speak to a doctor before using pressotherapy. This includes anyone with a known or suspected blood clot (DVT), certain heart or circulation conditions, severe peripheral arterial disease, an infection, wound or recent injury in the legs, or uncontrolled swelling of unknown cause. If a condition applies to you, get professional advice rather than assuming it is fine.
Pregnancy and medical conditions
If you are pregnant or have an ongoing medical condition, check with your doctor or midwife before using a pressotherapy device. For conditions such as lymphoedema, use should be guided by your clinician, who can advise on suitable pressures and frequency. Medical guidance always takes priority over general-use advice.
Using it safely
- Start on the lowest pressure and build up gradually.
- Keep sessions within the manufacturer's guidance.
- Stop immediately if you feel pain, numbness, pins and needles or anything unusual.
- Do not use over broken skin, wounds or infections.
- Keep the control unit away from water.
A note on this guidance
This page is general information to help you use a device sensibly, not medical advice, and it cannot account for your individual circumstances. If you are unsure whether pressotherapy is suitable for you, the safest step is always to ask your GP or a qualified clinician first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should not use pressotherapy?
Anyone with a known or suspected blood clot, certain heart or circulation conditions, severe peripheral arterial disease, an infection, wound or recent leg injury, or uncontrolled swelling of unknown cause should check with a doctor first. Pregnant users should also seek advice.
Is pressotherapy safe to use at home?
For most healthy adults, yes, at a comfortable pressure and sensible session length. Build up gradually, keep it firm but never painful, and stop if anything feels wrong. If you have a medical condition, check with your doctor first.
Can you use pressotherapy when pregnant?
Check with your doctor or midwife before using a pressotherapy device during pregnancy. Medical guidance should take priority, as your individual circumstances determine whether and how it is suitable for you.