What Makes The Compression Garments For Lymphedema Special?

As the name implies, compression sleeves are meant to exert pressure on certain parts of the body in order to maintain lymph flowing in the appropriate way. It’s important to remember that certain lymphatic tubes are just below the surface of your skin. Compression sleeves alone have not been studied for their efficacy in treating lymphedema in research studies. Experts, on the other hand, have discovered that they are helpful when used in conjunction with other therapies. Fingerless gloves or gauntlets (without distinct finger holes) are examples of items that may be worn on the arm as well as the rest of the body, and can commonly be paired with sleeveless shirts. Now let us look at the details of the whole process here.

Flexible fabric is used to make all of the clothes

The bottom of the sleeves is more restrictive than the top. Gradient pressure is created as a result of this, which inhibits lymph from backing up into the arm. In addition, there are a wide range of materials to choose from: Depending on the manufacturer, you may get a product made of wool or latex, which give it a different feel.

If you have moderate lymphedema, your first line of defense may be a compression garment (stage 0 or stage 1). Stages 2 and 3 lymphedema patients should begin treatment with a procedure known as complete decongestive therapy (CDT) in order to reduce swelling. Wearing a compression sleeve or garment thereafter can help you keep your results.

The following are some further pointers

It’s best to go with durable medical equipment (DME) companies that have a good reputation and work with your lymphedema therapist to get your compression garments for lymphedema. The term “durable medical equipment” refers to items that you may utilise in the comfort of your own home.

Make sure your sleeve is appropriately fitted. To make lymphedema even worse, an incorrectly fitting sleeve may put excessive pressure on particular parts of the leg, which can lead to fluid buildup. Depending on the situation, your lymphedema therapists or the medical supply company’s fitter may do the fitting. The sleeve will be individually made for you based on your dimensions of the arm, hand, chest and so on. Please inquire about the number of individuals who have been helped by either of these professionals.

Consider getting two of anything, like sleeves or a piece of clothing, so you can wash them alternately. To keep them in top condition, they should be changed about once every three to six months.

Ask the lymphedema therapist whether Wearing a glove or gauntlet is a good idea to keep your hands safe while wearing a compression sleeve. This is particularly critical if you’ve ever had even the tiniest indication of hand symptoms like heaviness, tingling, or swelling. Wearing just one sleeve raises the possibility of lymphedema in the hands. In the meantime, while your body adjusts to the sleeve, it’s a good idea to wear a glove or gauntlet. The lymphedema therapist may urge you to keep an eye out for any changes in the sensation or look of your hand.

Last Words

Before putting on the sleeve, do not apply any moisturizers on your arm or hand. The elastic fibers in the sleeve might degrade over time due to the chemicals in these products. Compression sleeves as well as other clothing are not usually covered by insurance policies. To learn more about other patients’ experiences with insurance coverage, speak with the lymphedema therapist or the garment fitter directly. This is all that you need to know.