Treating Lymphedema Using Compression Garments![]()
The Use of Compression Garments in Treating LymphedemaThere is still no cure for lymphedema. Hence, the goal of lymphedema 'treatments' is to minimize the swelling and to control the pain or discomfort. There are several treatment options that can do this; one of which is the use of lymphedema compression garments. The use of these compression garments is considered to be an integral part of managing the symptoms of lymphedema. The pressure from these garments helps in controlling the fluid build-up and in promoting proper drainage of the lymphatic fluid. Sizes and Compression ClassesLymphedema compression garments are typically worn on the affected limb following a complete decongestive therapy. Depending on the therapist's discretion, the compression garment may be custom-fit or purchased over-the-counter. Compression garments come in several sizes and in different compression classes. Each compression class provides a certain level of compression. Class 1 provides the lowest level of pressure (20-30 mmHg) while Class 4 provides the highest level of pressure (over 60 mmHg). Making the Most of Lymphedema Compression GarmentsA lymphedema compression garment will only be effective if there is a gradual decrease of pressure from the most distant part of the extremity to the nearest part. This is to encourage good flow of the lymph. If there is no gradient in the pressure, the flow of the lymph will be obstructed. In order to maintain edema reduction, compression garments should be worn 24 hours a day, every day. Initially, you will be advised to wear the garment a few hours a day. The time will be gradually increased until you can wear it for most of the day. If the affected limb is too swollen for you to wear your lymphedema compression garment, the lymphedema specialist may recommend the use of a special kind of multi-layer bandages. Image: Illusive Photography via Flickr Posted by: on 1/22/2018
![]() ![]() ![]() |
October 2019
September 2019
March 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
September 2018
July 2018
June 2018
May 2018
April 2018
February 2018
January 2018
December 2017
November 2017
October 2017
September 2017
August 2017
July 2017
June 2017
May 2017
April 2017
March 2017
February 2017
January 2017
December 2016
November 2016
October 2016
September 2016
August 2016
July 2016
June 2016
May 2016
April 2016
March 2016
February 2016
January 2016
December 2015
April 2015
March 2015
February 2015
January 2015
December 2014
November 2014
October 2014
September 2014
August 2014