The main effects of applying external pressure are as follows:
Reduction in vein diameter
(the veins are distensible, which explains why they are sensitive to the application of external pressure)
Restoration of valve function by bringing the walls of the veins closer together
Reintegration of interstitial liquids into the vessels
Improvement in lymphatic microcirculation along with a reduction in pressure within the lymphatic capillaries
Increase in cutaneous microcirculation
This leads to:
- a reduction in venous volume and an increase in venous flow rate, a reduction in reflux, improvement of the venous pump and restoration the direction of the circulation from the superficial to the deep network and towards the heart
- an acceleration in filtration rate in the capillaries, stimulation of lymphatic drainage and reduction of oedema
- and, finally, creation of conditions promoting the healing process in the event of venous ulcers and improvement in trophic disorders.
