Measurements of calf muscle pump efficiency during simulated ambulation

Objective. To determine the acceptability and reproducibility of a novel me thod of measuring calf muscle pump efficiency (CMPE). If confirmed, to exam ine if the results had implications for the use of elastic compression stoc kings. Experimental design. A system devised to measure pressure/volume relationsh ips in the calf during simulated ambulation and from which may be derived a Value for CMPE. Setting. A temperature/humidity controlled vascular laboratory. Participants. The study groups were normal subjects and patients with leg p ain of more than three months duration with and without chronic venous insu fficiency (CM) identified using infra-red photoplethysmography. Results. The system described is widely acceptable and reproducible (r=0.92 3). Group analysis showed a significant reduction of CMPE in patients with CVI, However, CMPE varies widely in these patients. Some patients with insu fficiency of the deep veins have a normal CMPE. Conclusions. These findings have implications for the use of elastic compre ssion stockings and the degree of compression applied.