All about compression: A literature review

Abstract

Lower extremity ulcers represent a significant public health problem as they frequently progress to chronicity, significantly impact daily activities and comfort, and represent a huge financial burden to the patient and the health system. The aim of this review was to discuss the best approach for venous leg ulcers (VLUs). Online searches were conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, EBSCO CINAHL, and reference lists and official guidelines. Keywords considered for this review were VLU, leg ulcer, varicose ulcer, compressive therapy, compression, and stocking. A complete assessment of the patient's overall health should be performed by a trained practitioner, focusing on history of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dietetic habits, medications, and practice of physical exercises, followed by a thorough assessment of both legs. Compressive therapy is the gold standard treatment for VLUs, and the ankle-brachial index should be measured in all patients before compression application.