New technologies in vascular rehabilitation

Abstract

Lymphedema of lower limbs represents an important health problem, characterized by the necessity to identify new methods of treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment with Lymphatic Kinesiology Taping (LKT) or Intermittent Pneumatic Compression therapy (IPC) on a homogeneous group of 40 women affected by primary lymphedema within stage 2 of lower limbs, comparing the two methods. Patients were equally and randomly divided into a group A subjected to application of LKT and group B subjected to IPC. All patients were evaluated through electric bioimpedentiometry (analysis of Total Body Water and Extracellular Water) and circumferential measurement of lower limbs through a measurement tape, both before and after the protocol (T0 and T1). Both treatment groups highlighted an improvement of the lymphedema, with a marked reduction of volume of lower limbs and a better hydric balance of the body. LKT and IPC can be considered as viable options for the treatment of primary lymphedema within stage 2 of lower limbs.