Which of the following is an indication for compression therapy?

• A. Edema
• B. Infection of treated area
• C. Hypertension
• D. Unstable fracture

Answer: (A)

Compression therapy is used to manage edema and improve venous return. External pressure helps push interstitial fluid back into the venous system, decreases capillary filtration, and supports the calf muscle pump to move blood more effectively toward the heart. This makes edema due to venous insufficiency or chronic venous edema a primary indication for compression.

The other scenarios aren’t indications: an active infection in the treated area is a contraindication or precaution because compression can hinder healing and affect skin integrity. Hypertension by itself isn’t an indication for compression therapy, as it’s a systemic issue rather than a local fluid problem. An unstable fracture is also a contraindication because applying compression can risk further injury or displacement and interfere with fracture healing.