Effects of intermittent pneumatic compression device on the improvement of tissue oxygen saturation and fluid clearance at the compression site

Introduction Intermittent pneumatic compression devices (IPCDs) facilitate post-exercise recovery by increasing tissue oxygen saturation (rSO 2 ) and reducing intramuscular interstitial fluid. However, limited evidence exists on time-course changes of these physiological responses during the intervention. This study aimed to examine the effects of IPCD use on rSO 2 and fluid content in the lower limbs. Methods We enrolled 59 healthy adults (37 males, 22 females) who underwent a 30-min IPCD intervention on their right leg at a target pressure of 90 mmHg. The rSO 2 at the posterior calf was measured using near-infrared spectroscopy at baseline and across four periods (period 1: 0.5–3.5 min; period 2: 10–13 min; period 3: 20–23 min; and period 4: 27–30 min). T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was conducted pre- and post-intervention to assess fluid clearance. Results The rSO 2 values increased significantly from baseline (75.7% ± 5.8%) across all time periods (period 1: 79.5% ± 4.7%; period 2: 80.5% ± 4.7%; period 3: 80.8% ± 4.7%; and period 4: 81.2% ± 4.8%; p < 0.001). The values in periods 2, 3, and 4 were significantly higher than those in period 1 (p < 0.001), with no significant differences observed among periods 2, 3, and 4. Moreover, the T2 values significantly decreased post-intervention (Pre: median, 39.3; Post: 37.9; p < 0.001). Conclusion IPCD use improves muscle oxygen saturation and facilitates fluid clearance within 30 min. Although oxygenation effects occur early, a 30-min IPCD session provides both oxygenation and fluid reduction benefits.