Compression Therapy: The Basics

Medical Advancements occur everyday and create many new therapies for wound care that offer both pain relieve and more rapid healing. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association compression therapy is one of the most common tools used to help patients suffering from ulcerations of the leg.  Additionally, it has significant benefits for patients with conditions such as lymphedema.

Compression therapy can be administered using a variety of tools. Compression socks, bandages and wraps are among the most common and the most cost effective. However,

motorized compression sleeves with a pump system can also be administered in more severe cases (most commonly in a hospital setting).  

How does it work?

Compression therapy helps to reduce the buildup of fluid under the skin to help bring down swelling and increase blood flow. The pressure allows the veins to expand which assists the wounded area in maintaining a steady blood flow. This aids in speeding up the healing process while preventing infection. And, because compression therapy plays a significant role in the reduction of swelling (which can limit the skin’s oxygenation abilities), wounds can heal weeks or even months quicker than without the therapy. Additionally, if compression continues after the area is healed, it has been shown to reduce the risk of the reoccurrence of ulcerations.

Benefits of compression therapy.

Rapid healing is one of the key benefits of this therapy, but it also helps to minimize the pain and discomfort that is associated with swelling. This leads to better sleep and increased mobility.

Compression therapy is ideal for individuals who sit for extended periods of time or lead a moderately sedentary lifestyle. It also is good for people who suffer from varicose veins or post–thrombotic syndrome. Conversely, individuals who have the following conditions, should not use compression therapy unless recommended by a doctor.

• Congestive heart failure
• Septic phlebitis
• Phlegmasia cerulea dolens
• Weeping dermatoses
• Impaired sensitivity in the limbs
• Ischemia
• Immobility
• Skin infections

At Westside Medical Supply we offer customers a wide range of compression therapy products to help with wound care as well as other conditions that cause edema. Contact us today to discuss your needs. We can help you determine what therapies your insurance carrier will cover.  As with all medical conditions, it is important to see the advice of your doctor before any type of therapy or treatment.

Tips to Understand Your 2017 Insurance Benefits

Over the past several years, health insurance has become increasingly complicated. Understanding your benefits before you choose a plan is crucial and could save you unwanted and expensive surprises down the road.  Here are several tips to help you understand your health coverage.

Out-of-Pocket Expenses – Knowing how much your health insurance costs out of your own finances is paramount to choosing a plan that meets your needs. Out-of-pocket expenses can range from as little as $1,000 for an individual plan to upwards of $11,000 for an entire family. Once the out-of-pocket maximum is met, your insurance provider should pay for any additional medical care covered under your plan.

Understanding coverage – Knowing how your coverage works is crucial in understanding the anticipated amount of your out-of-pocket expenses. Most plans include a deductible, coinsurance percentage, co-payment and out-of-pocket maximum.   

• Deductible – The total amount you must pay before co-insurance kicks in.
• Coinsurance – Shared costs between you and the insurance company.
• Co-payment – A fixed cost paid each time you visit the doctor (Normally this does not count towards the deductible.)
• Out-of-pocket maximum – The most you will pay for medical expenses before the insurance company covers 100 percent.

How to choose a plan – There are many variables to consider when selecting a health insurance plan. Some important factors to consider might include:

• Type of coverage – Do you want basic coverage or a comprehensive plan?
• Physician – If you already have a family doctor make sure they are covered under your new plan.
• Travel – If you are on the road a lot understand what is covered if you are out of your network.
• Services covered – Make sure the plan you are using covers all medical needs of you and your family.
• HSA friendly – Will your health plan work with a Health Savings Account?
• Prescriptions – Are prescription medications covered under the plan?

At Westside Medical Supply we know that health plans can be very confusing and contain a lot of fine print. If you have questions about your insurance plan, please contact our team. We are happy to sit down and help you understand your level of coverage and how it impacts your current medical needs. It is our privilege to help our customers realize the best quality of life with medical supplies that give them the freedom they desire.