Author: Jennifer Austin (BSc MS)
It is widely acknowledged that Leg compression machines (or sequential compression devices) are a great way to help reduce Lymphedema swelling in lower limbs.
However it can be difficult to know which leg compression machine for Lymphedema to use.
Picking the wrong device can mean you will see no improvements to your lymphedema swelling, and sometimes even cause you harm.
In this article we will look at machines which are both effective at reducing swelling, and also safe to use.
Read on to discover our pick for the best leg compression machine for lymphedema.
Swollen lower limbs is one of the typical symptoms of Lymphedema.
Lymphedema compression pumps for legs were once considered a controversial and risky technique to improve lower limb swelling.
However, due to improvements in technology, these devices now carry much less risk, and can deliver better results than earlier lymphedema pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) When Using Leg Compression Machines For Lymphedema?
We took an in-depth look at Compression Pumps for lymphedema in our article here.
However the key points can be summarized as following:
Leg Compression Machine, Sequential Compresion Device, Lymphedema Pump, Gradient Sequential Leg Compression? What is the difference?
It can be confusing when choosing a device as there can be so many different names for such machines.
However, believe it or not they are all leg compression machines which work in a similar way, regardless of their name.
You attach a sleeve to each leg and then set the device to inflate each chamber in the sleeve in a set order.
This technique is referred to as intermittent pneumatic compression, and it moves the lymph fluid up the legs. The intention is that this fluid will reach a site on the body where it can be better processed internally, and as a result swelling is reduced.
When To Use Leg Compression Devices For Lymphedema?
These devices are great at helping reduce swelling in limbs affected by Lymphedema.
However you will likely see better results when these devices are used early on in your diagnosis, or if you have taken steps daily to manage your Lymphedema which keeps the swelling down.
Do Leg Compression Machines Work For All Stages of Lymphedema?
The devices we cover in this article are great for people experiencing basic/early stage Lymphedema swelling.
The more severe your swelling, the less likely you will see benefits from these devices as more permanent changes of the body can occur at later stages.
These devices can have mixed results when used in later stage Lymphedema.
At this point, you may also wish to look at a more specialised lymphedema pump system such as the Flexitouch system. However consult with your Lymphedema Therapist first on what’s right for you.
What Is The Evidence That Leg Compression Machines Help Lymphedema?
More and more studies are being carried out on the effectiveness of such devices for lymphedema.
In the last decade particularly there have been many studies demonstrating positive results.
For example this study by Feldman et. al (2012) which stated that intermittent pneumatic compression can be an effective home treatment when used alongside compression stockings.
The overall consensus of the majority of modern research into such devices is that they are effective in managing and reducing lymphedema swelling.
What Are Lymphedema Pump Contraindications (when not to use)?
The most common contraindications (when not to use) for the use of such devices can be summarized as follows:
- Edema throughout your entire body
- An active infection
- A blood clot
- Active cancer
- Renal (kidney) failure
- Respiratory insufficiency
- Congestive heart failure
- Cellulitis or acute infection of the affected limb
- Deep vein thrombosis within the past year
- Not normally recommended for babies, or children under the age of six
What Benefits Can You Expect From Such Devices?
Benefits reported by users of such devices include…
The main reported benefit of such devices is a reduction in swelling. However you can also expect improvements in the following areas:
- Improved mobility
- Increased energy, confidence and sleep quality
- Improved pain levels
- Strengthened immune system
- Reduced stress
- Increased endorphins and amino acids
What Features and Settings Should You Look For in a Compression Device?
Your aim should always be to purchase a pump which can mimic manual lymphatic drainage therapy as closely as possible.
Ensure you choose a pump with the following features:
- Ensure the pump has at least four chambers, and covers as much of the limb as possible
- Choose a pump which can apply pressures of 30 or 40 mmHg, with ideally total inflation and deflation times of around 25 to 80 seconds for maximum benefits
- Can be set to inflate the chambers in sequence (sequential compression)
What Is The Best Leg Compression Machine For Lymphedema?
There will unlikely be one single best compression machine for lymphedema.
Every person’s experience of lymphedema will be different and therefore have slightly different needs.
However we will look at 5 devices which have the potential to work great with early stage or well managed cases of lower limb lymphedema.
The devices we will look at here will have all the recommended features in terms of number of chambers, pressure settings, and sequential inflation.
Best Leg Compression Machine For Lymphedema
1/ NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System
2/ Rapid Reboot Recovery System
3/ DSMAREF Recovery Compression System
4/ SLS3 Compression Recovery Boots
5/ Fit King Leg Air Massager
NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System Review
+Most Compression Chambers
+ User Friendly Interface
– Accessing Advanced Features May Require Practise
The NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System has built up an impressive following over the years.
Athletes and celebrities such as Anthony Joshua, Dwyane Wade, Lady Gaga, and Drake are amongst some of the more famous users of the product.
This compression device has been a go to system for those seeking quick and efficient recovery following athletic performance.
However the features of this device also make it perfect for those experiencing lower limb Lymphedema.
Key Features:
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Activate up to 5 inflation chambers (many massagers have 4 at the most)
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Control wirelessly through a mobile app
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Zone Boost for extra attention where you need it most
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Integrated rechargeable battery for recovery on-the-go
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Light and compact system (3.4 Lbs)
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Sleeve Sizes – Short, Standard, & Tall
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Patented technology for proven results
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Engineered and assembled in the USA
How It Works
Simply put on the leg sleeves, and optional hip sleeves, attach the hose to whichever section you wish to use.
Select from two massage patterns, intensity, and massage time (via the app or the pump itself), and then you are ready to go.
Pricing & Purchase
The NormaTec Pulse 2.0 Leg Recovery System comes with many optional extras, so you can really tailor this system to your needs.
For package options and pricing on Amazon, click this link.
Pros
The Normatec 2.0 operates in the 30-110 mmHg pressure range, making it ideal for those with lymphedema.
A higher number of compression chambers is associated with greater reductions in swelling. So the five chambers with this device may give you the edge over other similar devices, which tend to have four.
The sleeves have triple reinforced stitching for unparalleled durability.
This device also has optional hip recovery sleeves.
Seven intensity levels, and intensity can be adjusted whilst the device is in use.
Two massage patterns can be selected (NormaTec Pulse or Sequential), with the sequential pattern being ideal for those with lymphedema.
Sessions range from 10 mins to 2 hours 55 mins.
The ‘Zone Boost’ feature lets you add extra pressure to a specific chamber.
The pump and app come with an easy to use graphical user interface.
It has an integrated, rechargeable battery and world voltage compatible power supply (100-240V). The battery can run the unit for up to 2 hours on a full charge.
The Pulse 2.0 has easy to connect hoses, and also comes with a 2 year warranty for your reassurance.
The sleeves themselves can be used with a range of leg lengths. For shorter legs, simply deacitvate the top compression chamber.
Circumference on each sleeve size are as follows – Short 26 inches, Standard 29 inches, & Tall 30 inches
Cons
Although the straightforward user interface is one of the Normatec 2.0’s strongest features, the oversimplified interface can make accessing advanced features not so straightforward.
If you wish to adjust the number of zones or the massager pattern, it does involve cycling through settings and holding buttons until the required settings are displayed. If you are a technophobe then you may find this off-putting. However, the advanced settings are much more accessible via the smartphone app.
Final Opinion
One of the longest running leg compression devices which is known for its quality and results.
The fact that it offers five compression chambers may lead you to find improvements in swelling that you might not find with other devices.
A friendly user interface, but some may struggle to access advanced features easily.
Rapid Reboot Recovery System Review
+ Great Range of Sizes
+ Low Noise
– Powered By Wall Outlet Only
The Rapid Reboot Recovery System offers flexibility and customization in the areas of size, comfort, and compression settings.
Key Features:
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Comfortable, size-specific compression boots which can accommodate legs of various sizes (XS to XL)
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Includes: 2 x Leg Sleeves, Pump Unit, Padded Carry case, User Guide (optional hip sleeves)
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Customizable pump settings for tailored recovery sessions
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Choose from 10 to 30 minute recovery sessions
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2 Massage Modes
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Adjustable Pressure Range of 20 mmhg to 200 mmhg
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10 Pressure Settings
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Leg Sleeve Size Ranging from XS to XL
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Choose Specific Chamber To Inflate/Deflate
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Transportable
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2-year warranty
How It Works?
Simply fit the sleeves, plug in the pump unit, select the mode, time, and pressure settings, and press start. It’s that simple!
The Rapid Reboot system then massages any swelling, inflammation, and soreness away from your legs.
Mode A (Peristaltic): Working from the foot upwards, each section compresses then decompresses before the next section compresses.
Once the top section (thigh) decompresses, the cycle begins again.
Mode B (Recovery): Starting with the foot and progressing up the leg, each section compresses and holds until the entire boot is compressed.
All four sections then decompress simultaneously before the cycle begins again.
This mode is ideal for people experiencing Lymphedema in their legs.
Pressure can be adjusted while in use. To adjust further settings, simply press pause button and then change the settings as required.
Sessions can last 10, 20 or 30 mins.
Pricing & Purchase
The basic Rapid Reboot package we have covered here is usually available in the region of $900 (however the package which includes the hip attachment is priced slightly higher).
This makes this system great value when you consider this is around a third of the price of similar systems available.
However you can check the latest price by clicking here.
Pros
Overall the Rapid Reboot Recovery System has exceptional reviews from people who have tried it.
This device meets the recommended spec of such a device for use with lymphedema:
- It has four inflation chambers
- Pressure range in the recommended 30 to 40 mmHg range
- Can be set to inflate in sequence
It can fit a range of leg shapes and sizes, and can even fit large legs, with the XL size boot circumference being 29″ around the thigh, with a 23″ calf.
If you are concerned about the pooling of fluid at the top of the leg, which can be risk from such devices, the Rapid Reboot System has a hip attachment for transporting fluid up to the torso if needed.
It is particularly quiet when on, with little noticeable noise increase even if you increase the pressure.
A great feature is that you can literally press the sections on the leg diagram on the control unit to select which units you wish to inflate as part of your program.
Also all the functions you need are accessible via the touch screen on the front of the unit. So no messing around with menus etc.
Another function not often seen on these devices is the section under your foot inflates, so you get a nice massage on the bottom/arch of your foot.
The pump can be described as emitting a low humming sound.
Rapid Reboot offer great customer support on this device, with a responsive and friendly customer service team available to answer any queries.
Cons
Unfortunately the unit does not include a rechargeable battery at this time. So the device will need to be plugged into the wall power outlet to use.
As a workaround however you could use a 12v DC power converter if you wish to use this in the car during a journey if needed.
Conclusion
The Rapid Reboot Recovery System is a great all round sequential compression device for home use.
It has a nice modern design, is quiet, and it strikes a nice balance of features, being easy of use, whilst also being value for money.
DSMAREF Recovery Compression System Review
+ Best For Large Legs
+ Nice Price
– Limited Range of Inflation Options
Next up is the DSMAREF Recovery Compression System from Doctor Life.
Made by Dutch air compression therapy manufacturer Doctor Life, the DSMAREF is one of the most popular leg compression machines on the market today.
Doctor Life pride themselves on providing technology which is both cost effective and backed by research.
Key Features:
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Low Noise
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Easy to Operate and Carry
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Adjustable Pressure of 20-240mmHg
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Adjustable Operating Time of 0-30mins
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Includes : 2 Leg Sleeves (1 Pair), 2 Foot Pads (1 Pair), 1 Double Hose, 1 Single Hose, Doctor Life Device, Power Cable and User Manual
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Additional Accessories Include – Arm, waist and centerbody cuffs. Extension zipper
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Comes In Four Sizes (M, L, XL, XXL) and has an extension zipper to go wider again
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1 year device warranty, 6 month sleeve warranty
Check out the following video showing the DSMAREF being fitted:
How It Works
Once activated this device operates like a wave, which begins inflating at the foot sections and then works its way up to the thigh. The device then deflates and starts at the feet again.
The sleeves have different sections which are inflated and deflated in this order.
This is the ideal method for moving lymph fluid back up the leg.
Pricing & Purchase
This device is typically available for around $400 – $800 depending on what sleeves and accessories you purchase to go with the pump.
For the latest price however please click here.
Pros
The DSMAREF boasts an impressive list of benefits to its use.
An air leg massage is provided which also has a stretching effect on the limbs, which would benefit anyone who is spending long periods in bed.
The DSMAREF increases blood circulation whilst also promoting abdominal breathing (which can help increase oxygen in the blood).
In addition, it can help the body detox as it also stimulates the body’s Lymphatic system whilst also helping lower cholesterol.
The DSMAREF also great for users with larger legs. The upper thigh sections can accommodate thighs of circumference up to 33″ (if the XL size is used alongside extension zippers).
But this isn’t all this pump helps with.
The makers of the DSMAREF also claim facial toning can be improved as a result of the toxin removal process that the unit provides.
Finally, using the DSMAREF may help release Amino Acids and Endorphins that work as the body’s natural painkiller.
Dr Life claim there are no side effects to using the DSMAREF, and the operating costs are minimal for this unit due to its low power consumption.
Cons
Some users report that the leg sleeves may not be a good fit, and sometimes the sleeves are not applying enough pressure.
However on further investigation by the manufacturer, this appears to be down to minority of buyers who have not consulted manufacturer guidelines when selecting the correct sleeve size at time of purchase.
Selecting the correct sleeve size is an important element to get right when purchasing such a device, so please check size guidance when purchasing.
Also this device doesn’t have the range of options for inflating different chambers in different sequences that you might find in other compression devices, such as the Rapid Reboot System above.
Final Opinion
The DSMAREF consistently receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from users.
There are reports that this device can make a difference after just one use, particularly for people experiencing lower limb swelling.
There are also positive testimonies from users who have reported the DSMAREF’s ability to improve circulation.
The DSMAREF also has the potential to stop pain and cramps at night when used before bed.
The sleeves on the DSMAREF generally fit very well. And if you combine the range of available sizes with the fact you can choose the pressure and time settings to suit you, you really can get the perfect massage at home with this device.
Worried about the noise? This unit isn’t even as loud as a vacuum cleaner. You may even find that you can fall asleep with the sleeves on!
This massager also comes with a 1 year warranty and has a reliable customer support service on hand following your purchase.
An excellent leg massager for circulation, particularly if you have larger legs.
SLS3 Compression Recovery Boots Review
+ Focus On Specific Leg Areas
+ Remote Controlled
– May Not Suit Very Swollen or Large Legs
The SLS3 recovery air compression boots offer the perfect solution for flushing lymph and other unwanted toxins from your body.
Although originally designed for athletes this device has the perfect set of features to help improve leg lymphedema.
Key Features:
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6 different programs
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4 chambers (overlapping)
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Isolation mode (turn chambers on and off)
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Adjustable pressure settings (20-250mmHg)
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Custom time settings (10-60 min)
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Control via remote (3 feet distance range) or control unit
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110V U.S. outlet with long power cord
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1 Year Worry-Free Guarantee
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30 Day Money Back Guarantee
How It Works
The SLS3 Compression Boots are easy to operate.
Simply sit down, put your legs into the boots, choose one of the six modes available, adjust the time and pressure settings, press start, then sit back and enjoy!
As you will realize, the SLS3 compression system allows you to multi-task while recovering. Meaning you can watch TV, have your meal, check your phone or even work on your laptop.
Pricing & Purchase
Regardless of what size you choose, the SLS3 is usually available for around $700 (at time of writing).
For the latest price however follow this link to Amazon.
Pros
The SLS3 really is a great device when it comes to customization.
This device boasts a range of massage programs (six in total).
You can also isolate different chambers as needed, a good feature if you wish to target specific areas of your legs.
Both time and pressure settings can be adjusted also.
A nice touch is that the pump can be operated by remote control if needed. However the supplied power cord is long enough that you can tuck the device away out of sight if needed as well..
Reduce lymph and lactic acid, whilst improving circulation at the same time. All while you sit back and relax.
Also comes with a handy carry bag.
“I couldn’t believe how quickly it allowed me to recover. It is very simple to select the desired pressure as well as select which compartment of the boots you want working”
Petr Vabrousek
Cons
There is very little to fault with the SLS3 compression pump.
The manufacturer always recommends to choose the next size up when selecting a size if you are unsure. However as this only comes in small, medium, or large you may find the device isn’t a good choice for particularly large or swollen legs.
Also this device is still relatively new, so the long term reliability is still to be seen. However the manufacturer is so confident in their product that they are offering a 30 day money back guarantee, and a one year warranty.
Final Opinion
Despite being a relatively new product on the market, the SLS3 is quickly gaining a reputation as being a serious contender in the compression pump market.
A highly customizable device which has the added bonus of being able to be operated by remote control.
And at a great price point too this device comes highly recommended.
Fit King Leg Air Massager Review
+ Best Affordable Massager
+ Good For Large Legs
– Only Focuses On Lower Legs
We can appreciate the expense of some of the leg massagers we have covered in this article.
Which is why we felt it was only fair to include a budget option.
Finally we will take a look at the Fit King Leg Air Massager.
Key Features:
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Adjustable – Fits both thin and wide legs (max calf diameter for this product is 72cm/28.5inch)
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3 Massage Intensity Levels – Three settings of pressure level (Low/Mid/High)
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2 different type of massage (Sequence of Whole)
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10 Different Massage Techniques
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FREE Calf Extension Straps (for larger calves)
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Convenient and Safe – Safety feature of 20 minutes auto shut-off cycle
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Light-weight, portable and comes with a mesh storage bag.
Watch below to see the Fit King being unboxed:
How It Works
When you require relief from swelling on your feet or calves simply wrap around the easy to apply velcro straps.
Use the controls to select the air pressure and mode. The wraps will then inflate and deflate intermittently to deliver a relieving massage for up to 20 mins.
Pricing and Purchase
This device is usually available for well under $99, but you can find the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.
Pros
For such a basic device you can expect relief from a variety of health conditions affecting the limbs, including swelling/edema.
The device is easy to use, and you simply use two buttons to select the mode, and another button for the air pressure. Including the on/off button this makes just four buttons in total.
This device is great for use on larger legs, and if the calf extenders are used it can accommodate calves of up to 28.5″.
The Fit King massager is easy to use, store, and transport.
This device is often referred to as one of the most comfortable leg massagers available. This is thanks to the cosy and breathable inner material.
No further accessories are required, with the calf extenders being the only optional extra you need to consider.
The quiet operation makes it ideal to use in your day to day life.
You may gain peace of mind due to the in built safety shut off feature.
Cons
This device is a very basic, entry level leg massager. As a result it only has two inflation chambers, which is less than the four chambers recommended for use on lymphedema.
This device works off mains power only, so you need to sit next to a power outlet to use them.
Also some may find it annoying that there is no option to adjust the speed of the massage.
Final Opinion
A great value leg massager which can relieve symptoms of a host of conditions, including lower limb swelling
You may see similar results when using one of these as you would with a similar machine which may cost thousands.
Easy to fit and operate. Also versatile enough to be used on many areas of the body.
Be aware that this only has two inflation chambers, which is less than the recomended four for use on Lymphedema. This may mean that if you have anything more than basic, early stage swelling, then you may not see results from this.
Finally this massager can only be used on the lower legs. This may mean you run the risk of moving swelling from your lower legs up to your thigh area. So if you require relief from swelling the affects your entire legs then check out one of the other devices mentioned in this article.
Check The Fit King massager out for basic swelling in the lower legs, but nothing more.
Final Thoughts…
We hope you have found this article useful, and it has helped you find the best leg compression machine for lymphedema which meets your needs.
As you can see there are a number of off the shelf options when it comes to sequential compression devices for lymphedema.
The NormaTec Pulse 2.0 is a great pump overall, which may produce better reductions in swelling due to the extra compression chamber it has compared to its competitors.
If quiet operation of the pump is a concern then the Rapid Reboot compression machine offers a great low noise experience. And also some nice accessibility features on the pump itself.
The DSMAREF Recovery Compression System is a great option for larger legs, and comes at a really nice price point as well.
If accessing such a device whilst in use is an issue, then the SLS3 Compression Device comes with handy remote control functionality.
Finally, for a great budget friendly massager which only works on lower legs, try the Fit King Leg Air Massager.
Thanks for reading, and check out more articles like this on lymphedemalifeline.org.
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Many people use either stockings or compression pumps, not realizing the best results come from using them alongside each other.