Synergistic Effect of Elastic Stockings to Maintain Volume Losses after Mechanical Lymphatic Therapy

Abstract

The objective of the current study was to assess whether Venosan elastic stockings have a synergistic effect on the maintenance of results after Mechanical Lymphatic Therapy. Eleven patients with grade II lymphedema of the legs, regardless of cause, were evaluated in the Clinica Godoy between September and November 2012. The participants' ages ranged from 53 to 83 years old with a mean of 65.1 years. Two groups were formed with Group I using Venosan elastic stockings and Group II not using any type of compression therapy. Evaluations of the lymphedematous legs were performed before and after each drainage session using bioimpedance. Patients who wore elastic stockings had a greater volume reduction than those who did not wear stockings (unpaired t-test: P value < 0.001).

Lymphedema and Elephantiasis of the Lower Limbs: Normalization or Nearly Normalization

“…[43][44][45][46][47]. In such cases of mixed lymphedema, it may be necessary to use half-stockings [12].…”

“…Treatment on a daily basis or every other day is suggested until the normalization of the limb. Intensive therapy for two or more hours a day can also be performed [ 12 , 35 ].…”

“…After normalization, periodic return visits are scheduled as necessary depending on each case, and the patient continues using a ¾ elastic compression stocking (30/40 mmHg). If needed, further lymphatic therapy may be employed to maintain the limb within or near normality [ 6 , 12 ].…”

“…In recent years, Godoy & Godoy have developed novel therapy concepts proposing the normalization or near normalization of all clinical stages of lymphedema, including elephantiasis (Figures 1, 2) [6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14]. These researchers developed a novel concept of manual lymphatic drainage based on linear movements toward the corresponding lymph nodes [15].…”

Reduction of Arm Lymphedema Using Manual Lymphatic Therapy (Godoy Method)

“…Significantly, better results are achieved when braces and elastic sleeves are used immediately after the MLD session [ 16 ]. Thus, the combination of techniques is necessary.…”