What is a Foot Pump and why use it?

What is a Foot Pump and why should I use one?

The A-V Impulse Foot Pump: 

  • reduces swelling
  • increases circulation
  • reduces the risk for blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
How it works:
 
Located in the sole of your foot is a large group of veins that act as a built-in return pump. This group of veins is called the plantar venous plexus. Each time your foot hits the ground when you walk or run, the plantar venous plexus is flattened, stretched, and squeezed. This pumps blood back up to your heart.
 
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The A-V Impulse mimics the action of walking by inflating a small balloon that presses on the bottom of your foot. The pressure from the inflated balloon activates the plantar venous plexus and sends blood back up to your heart. This increased circulation is important for people who spend a considerable amount of time in bed or sitting upright because blood can pool in the bottom of the feet. 
 

The A-V Impulse System consists of a special controller connected by an air supply hose which is then connected to a specially designed pad which goes on the patient's foot or hand. The pad receives a message from the controller and rapidly inflates. The controller automatically deflates the inflation pad after each impulse. This impulse is delivered approximately three times every minute. Foot Pumps are clinically proven as a treatment for Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT), a condition where a blood clot forms inside a vein that is deep inside the body. The clot can block blood flow. If it breaks off and moves through the bloodstream, it can lead to severe damage. DVT mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh.

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Using a Foot Pump after surgery is a great idea. They help reduce the chance of DVT and other post-operative trauma and pain. By increasing blood flow to the lower limbs, the Foot Pump helps to reduce swelling in the leg, foot, ankle, hand, arm, elbow, etc, and enhance arterial blood flow in the lower or upper limbs. If you are interested in using a Foot Pump, you need to speak with your doctor ahead of time. Often, a test is required to ensure that you have no blood clots that may cause further medical complications. Foot Pumps have also been used to alleviate Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS).

Click here to go to our Foot Pump rental page.

Still have questions? A Patient Care Representative is available to discuss your concerns and answer your questions. Please call us at 1 (877) 301-4276.

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