Device
The device comprises of
- Vacuum chamber
- Pressure Monitor
- Rubber cuff
- Compressor Unit.
Physiology
The cycles of positive and negative pressure aids in improving circulation. The volume of an elastic vessel can be increased by the application of a vacuum force on its outer wall In the negative pressure phase of VCT , just such a force is exerted on the extremities and its vessels.In the positive pressure phase, the venous drainage is facilitated.Thus the alteration of positive and negative pressure facilitates increased arterial and capillary circulation and better venous drainage.
Technique of Application
The individuals’s extremity will be placed inside the plexiglass chamber of the vacuum compression device up to mid thigh without clothing. The rubber cuff of appropriate size for the individual was selected based of mid thigh/mid arm circumference to ensure snug fit. The parameters to be set at negative pressure of – 0.10 bar (-75 mmHg) for 60 seconds and positive pressure of 0.05 bar (38.5 mmHg) for 30 seconds as suggested by Akbari et al (2007)(For diabetic ulcer healing)
Duration
Literature evidences suggest the therapy for one hour on alterative days for ten sessions .
Instruction
The individuals should be instructed that they will feel sense of pull during negative pressure phase and sense of push during positive pressure phase. Any uncomfortable sensations should be repored immediately.
Side effects
There may be few temporary side effects like tingling and numbness may occur.
