What are two main purposes of compression therapy in rehabilitation?

• A. Reduce edema and improve venous return
• B. Increase edema
• C. Decrease ROM
• D. Increase blood pressure

Answer: (A)

Compression therapy in rehabilitation primarily aims to move excess fluid out of the tissues and back toward the circulation, thereby reducing swelling and aiding venous return. The external pressure helps push interstitial fluid into the veins and lymphatic vessels and reduces capillary filtration, which diminishes edema. It also compresses the limb’s veins, encouraging blood to travel back toward the heart and preventing fluid from pooling in the extremities. These effects together improve tissue perfusion and function, which is why reducing edema and improving venous return are the main goals. Increasing edema, decreasing range of motion, or raising systemic blood pressure are not goals of compression therapy.