What is Pneumatic Medicine?

Pneumatic Medicine is the use of non-invasive, dynamic pneumatic compression to treat a variety of medical conditions including:

• non-healing wounds (including diabetic wounds)
• venous insufficiency
• lymphedema
• sports injuries and workout recovery
• other circulation and peripheral vascular conditions

Pneumatic Medicine's core component is the use of the NormaTec PCD (Pneumatic Compression Device), with its patented Peristaltic Pulse pneumatic waveform. One or two multi-cell inflatable boots (or sleeves) are placed around the legs (or arms) and rhythmically inflated and deflated to rapidly improve poor circulation. Pneumatic Medicine treatments are easy, safe, painless, and done conveniently at home.

Learn more About Pneumatic Medicine »

What conditions does the NormaTec PCD treat?

The NormaTec PCD is used for the following medical conditions:

• Wounds that won't heal
• Venous insufficiency (problems with your veins leading to swollen legs)
• Lymphedema after breast cancer or any other type of cancer
• Congenital lymphedema (problems with your lymphatic system that you were born with)
• Other circulation-related conditions where you experience swelling in an arm, leg or other part of your body
• Preventing DVT (deep vein thrombosis, or blood clots)

The NormaTec PCD is also highly effective in sports medicine for healing and preventing sports injuries.

How does the NormaTec PCD work?

The NormaTec PCD uses a patented Peristaltic Pulse waveform that mimics normal healthy physiology. Using pulsing compression just like your body does when your muscles contract and relax, it naturally and easily improves your circulation and rapidly alleviates your symptoms.

What makes the NormaTec PCD different from others on the market?

While other PCDs (formerly called "lymphedema pumps") have been on the market for over 40 years, only the NormaTec PCD uses the patented Peristaltic Pulse pneumatic waveform, a significant scientific advancement which mimics the principles found in normal healthy physiology to improve venous and lymphatic flow. The NormaTec PCD can accommodate any size patient (pediatric through bariatric) and scrotal, pelvic, abdominal, and amputee appliances are also available. See the NormaTec PCD Product Info page for additional unique features.

Who should not use the NormaTec PCD?

Do NOT use the NormaTec PCD if you have acute deep vein thrombosis (a new blood clot in your veins). However, you can use the NormaTec PCD even if you have other medical conditions like diabetes, congestive heart failure, arterial insufficiency, infections, cancer, post-phlebitic syndrome, or end-stage renal failure. Of course, please make sure to let your doctor know if you have any of these or other medical conditions.

How often should I use the NormaTec PCD?

Your personal home treatment schedule is set up to fit both your medical needs and lifestyle. Most conditions require only one hour a day of home treatment, which can be done any time of the day, and can be broken up into several sessions if desired.

What happens if I stop using the NormaTec PCD?

For best results, only stop using the NormaTec PCD when instructed to do so by your licensed healthcare practitioner. If you do stop, contact your clinician before resuming treatment. Your clinician may want to reassess your medical condition, perhaps including screening you for an acute DVT (deep vein thrombosis, or a new blood clot in your veins) and/or other medical conditions that could prohibit your use of the device.

Can I travel with the NormaTec PCD?

Absolutely! If you plan on traveling by plane, hand carry your NormaTec PCD on board. The boots/sleeves can be packed in your checked luggage.

You do NOT need any documentation to carry your NormaTec PCD on board the plane. However, if you would feel more comfortable and want a travel letter, please call NormaTec's Customer Service Department at 1-800-335-0960.

If you plan on traveling to another country that uses a different electrical voltage (the United States uses 110V, whereas other countries may use 220V), call NormaTec's Customer Service Department at 1-800-335-0960 for information on the voltage transformer and plug adapter you will need.

You can buy a voltage transformer, convenient travel bag, and other useful accessories directly from NormaTec. Check out the Accessories & Replacement Parts section.

Will my health insurance plan cover the cost of the NormaTec PCD?

Most insurance policies do cover the NormaTec PCD. No matter what type of insurance plan you have, NormaTec will take care of verifying your insurance eligibility, determining your coverage benefits, obtaining pre-authorization if required, and working with you to make our product as financially affordable as possible.

Learn more about Insurance Coverage for the NormaTec PCD »

If my insurance requires pre-authorization, how long will that process take?

Some insurance policies may require pre-authorization before NormaTec can dispense your prescribed equipment. It may take up to two weeks or more for approval, although generally the timeframe is 48-72 hours.

What if I don't have health insurance or my insurance policy doesn't cover Durable Medical Equipment (DME)?

If you don't have health insurance, or if your insurance policy doesn't cover DME, NormaTec will work with you to develop a convenient payment plan.

If my insurer sends me information or documentation about the NormaTec PCD that I don't understand, what do I do?

Contact NormaTec at 1-800-335-0960 (toll free) for help with any insurance-related questions.

What do I do if I have any other questions or concerns?

NormaTec will gladly assist you with any other questions or concerns you may have. Please contact NormaTec at 1-800-335-0960 (toll free).