A physical therapist uses intermittent compression to treat a patient with an acute ankle sprain. The patient reports some discomfort in the ankle after five minutes of treatment. What is the MOST appropriate modification to the current treatment parameters?

When using intermittent compression for the treatment of an acute ankle sprain, the goal is to reduce swelling and promote circulation while ensuring patient comfort. If a patient reports discomfort after five minutes of treatment, it indicates that the current treatment parameters may be too aggressive and not suitable for the patient’s condition.

Increasing the off time is the most appropriate modification in this scenario. By extending the off time, the therapist allows more time for the venous and lymphatic systems to drain, potentially reducing discomfort associated with the compression. It can also minimize excessive pressure on the tissues, thereby promoting patient comfort while still providing therapeutic benefits.

Other modifications, such as increasing the inflation pressure, would likely exacerbate the patient’s discomfort; similarly, increasing the total treatment time without addressing the discomfort could lead to further issues. While elevating the leg can assist in reducing swelling and improving venous return, it should be considered in conjunction with managing the compression parameters to ensure the patient remains comfortable throughout the treatment. Therefore, adjusting the off time provides a balance between effective treatment and patient comfort, making it the best modification in this context.