Venus disease is present in around seven million people in the United States, which can lead to chronic wound situations like edema and ulcers, especially in the legs.

This can be caused by chronic or changing conditions, such as venous thrombosis, injury, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, paralysis, pregnancy, or prolonged standing, and it tends to take a long time to develop.

Compression therapy is a common way to treat chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The problem is determining which one is best for your particular situation.

Fulton Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing would like to help familiarize you with the different types of compression therapy.

Bandages
There are several different materials used in compression bandages. They are usually classified by elastic (i.e. long-stretch) or inelastic (i.e. short-stretch). An elastic/long-stretch bandage means that you can extend its size by pulling on it. The amount you stretch it before applying it is called the tension. You’ll want to apply different bandages (at different levels of tension) depending on the situation, so be sure to talk to your doctor or a specialist (usually a certified lymphedema therapist [CLT]) to find out the right way to do this.

Multilayer Bandages
This is a series of short-stretch bandages used, along with padding, to ensure the proper pressure on a leg. These are washable and reusable.
There are also disposable kits that can be used from the top of the foot (before the toes) to the knee.

Every Situation is Different
Each patient will require different kinds of bandages for varying amounts of time. Your CLT will be able to show you the proper way to bandage. Following the procedure is vital, whether you are treating yourself or providing care for a loved one.