What pressure should you use for pressotherapy? Guide to levels and intensity

When using pressotherapy, one of the most common questions is what pressure level to choose. Is it better to start at a low intensity? How many mmHg should you use? Does higher pressure always produce better results?

There is no single pressure level that is suitable for everyone.

The appropriate intensity depends on several factors, including the type of session, the area being treated, your previous experience with pressotherapy and your personal comfort level.

In this guide, we explain what pressure to use for pressotherapy, what mmHg means and how to adjust the intensity progressively.

What does pressure mean in pressotherapy?

Pressotherapy systems use air chambers that inflate and deflate in a controlled sequence around the legs, arms or other areas of the body.

As these chambers inflate, they apply compression to the area.

This pressure is usually expressed in mmHg (millimetres of mercury).

For example:

• 30 mmHg provides relatively gentle compression.

• 60 mmHg produces a more noticeable level of compression.

• 80 mmHg feels considerably firmer.

• Some devices can reach higher pressure levels.

However, these figures should not be interpreted in isolation.

The same pressure level can feel different depending on the device, chamber design, inflation sequence and the area being compressed.

For this reason, always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

So, what pressure should you use for pressotherapy?

There is no universal pressure that is suitable for every person or every type of session.

As a general rule, especially during your first sessions, it is advisable to start at a low or moderate intensity and gradually increase the pressure depending on your comfort level.

You should clearly feel the compression, but it should not be painful.

More pressure does not automatically mean better results.

The goal is to find an intensity that feels firm and effective while remaining comfortable.

Low pressure: a good starting point

If you are new to pressotherapy, starting at one of the lower pressure levels allows your body to become familiar with the sensation of compression.

Lower intensity may be suitable for:

• first sessions;

• users who are not yet familiar with pressotherapy;

• relaxation and wellness sessions;

• people who prefer gentle compression.

During the first few minutes, pay attention to how the compression feels.

If the intensity feels too light and your device allows adjustments during the session, you can gradually increase it.

Medium pressure: once you are familiar with pressotherapy

Once you are comfortable with pressotherapy, you may prefer an intermediate intensity.

At this level, the compression should feel noticeable and firm while still remaining comfortable.

The air chambers inflate progressively, creating the characteristic sequential compression sensation associated with pressotherapy.

Because every system has a different pressure range, it is often more useful to think in terms of low, medium and high intensity rather than applying the same mmHg value to every device.

What about high pressure?

Higher pressure levels should only be used when appropriate for your experience, comfort and the recommendations provided for your device.

Using the highest possible intensity simply because the device allows it is not necessary.

A higher pressure setting may feel more intense, but this does not automatically make the session more effective.

The objective should always be to find a comfortable and appropriate level of compression, rather than trying to tolerate the highest setting.

What pressure should you use for muscle recovery?

Pressotherapy is often used as part of post-training recovery routines.

Running, cycling, strength training and other sports are some of the contexts in which compression systems are commonly used.

Different protocols use different levels of pressure, so there is no single figure that applies to everyone.

The most important thing is to follow the recommendations for your device and adapt the intensity according to your comfort and experience.

Does more pressure mean better results?

Not necessarily.

This is one of the most common mistakes when using pressotherapy.

A stronger sensation of compression may make the session feel more intense, but intensity should not be confused with effectiveness.

A pressotherapy session combines several factors:

Pressure + inflation sequence + number of chambers + session duration + selected programme.

All these variables influence the overall experience.

That is why the highest pressure setting should never be the only reference when adjusting a session.

How to find the right pressure level

1. Check the instructions

Every system has different pressure ranges, programmes and operating characteristics.

Always check the manufacturer's recommendations before starting.

2. Start at a comfortable intensity

There is no need to begin with high pressure.

Start at a low or moderate level and allow your body to adapt to the sensation.

3. Assess the first few minutes

You should feel the chambers gradually compressing the area.

The pressure may feel firm, but it should remain comfortable.

4. Increase gradually

Once you are familiar with the system, you can try slightly higher levels if the manufacturer allows it.

Small adjustments make it easier to identify the intensity that suits you best.

5. Do not ignore discomfort

If you experience pain, persistent numbness, unusual changes in skin colour or any other abnormal sensation, stop the session.

If you have an existing health condition or any concerns, consult a healthcare professional before using pressotherapy.

Pressure and session duration

Pressure is not the only factor that matters.

Session duration should also be taken into account.

Using a certain pressure for a short session is not the same as maintaining the same intensity for a much longer period.

For this reason, it is better to consider:

Intensity + programme + session duration.

There is no need to extend sessions indefinitely in an attempt to achieve better results.

How can you tell if the pressure is too high?

Pressotherapy may feel firm, but it should not be painful.

Reduce the intensity or stop the session if you experience significant discomfort.

It is also important to distinguish between pressotherapy used for wellness or sports recovery and compression devices used as part of a medical treatment.

In the latter case, pressure should always be determined by a qualified healthcare professional.

Common mistakes when adjusting pressotherapy pressure

Starting at maximum pressure.
Higher intensity is not always necessary.

Copying someone else's settings.
Each person can have a different tolerance level.

Comparing only mmHg values.
Device design and compression sequence also influence the experience.

Assuming pain means better results.
The session should remain comfortable.

Ignoring the manufacturer's instructions.
Pressure ranges can differ significantly between systems.

Increasing both pressure and duration at the same time.
It is better to modify one parameter gradually.

Frequently asked questions

What intensity should beginners use?

If you are new to pressotherapy, start with one of the lower settings recommended by the manufacturer. Increase the intensity gradually as you become familiar with the sensation.

Does pressotherapy need to feel very tight?

The compression should be noticeable and may feel firm, but it should not cause pain.

What does mmHg mean in pressotherapy?

mmHg stands for millimetres of mercury and is a unit used to measure pressure.

Can I change the pressure during a session?

It depends on the system. Some devices allow you to adjust the intensity while the programme is running, while others require the level to be selected beforehand.

In summary: what pressure should you use for pressotherapy?

The best pressure is not necessarily the highest one.

Start with a low or moderate intensity, assess how the compression feels and gradually increase the level if necessary and permitted by your device.

Rather than looking for a single universal mmHg value, focus on finding the right balance between comfort, intensity, programme and session duration.