The effects of adding physiotherapy to compression therapy on function and oedema in chronic venous insufficiency

Background: To compare the effects of conventional approaches based on compression stockings and preventive measures with a combined program including these techniques, together with therapeutic exercise and self-manual lymphatic drainage instructed by a physiotherapist on functionality, general physical activity, and oedema in individuals with chronic venous insufficiency. Patients and methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial with two parallel groups (conventional approach and conventional plus physiotherapy approach) and a single-blind design was conducted. Oedema (circumferences), functionality (6-Minute Walking Test and the Five-Repetition Sit-to-Stand Test), physical activity level (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), and prevention measures were assessed before and after the intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. A total of 55 participants composed the final sample (13 women and 42 men, mean age: 60.49 years [15.05]). Results: No significant changes were found for the main effect of time or group-time-adherence interaction in any variable, while circumference at 10, 20, and 30 cm from the heel in both legs, and the 6-Minutes Walking Test showed a significant main effect for time in the conventional-approach group with high adherence. Conclusions: A multicomponent approach combining physiotherapy and medicine does not appear to be better than the conventional approach applied at primary care centres for improving functionality and oedema in patients with chronic venous insufficiency.