Measurement of sub-bandage forces

Compression therapy is the principal treatment for leg ulcers associated with venous disease. However, the mechanism of action of this long established treatment is poorly understood. The efficacy of the treatment can be variable which may in part be due to the degree of compression applied. It is not clear whether the assessment of compression should be made under static or dynamic conditions or both. The aim of this paper is to review methods for assessing sub-bandage forces or pressure and to present a method that allows static and dynamic measurements to be made. This method has been applied to investigate changes in compression under bandages and compression stockings.