Intermittent compression therapy, also known as intermittent pneumatic compression, uses an inflatable sleeve that fits over the leg and is attached to a pump. The pump provides sequential compression from the feet to the thighs to mimic the natural pumping action of leg muscles in order to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Intermittent compression therapy is commonly used for 30-60 minutes twice per day at pressures of 30-50 mm Hg to treat conditions such as venous insufficiency and help heal venous ulcers. Contraindications include suspected deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.