When it is difficult to bend over or put on a compression sock, it may be beneficial to get fitted for a compression wrap. A compression wrap is easy to wear and put on independently. There is a variety of styles and types of this garment.

Reduction kit- helps to shrink a swollen limb and is part of the ‘treatment phase’ of treatment Edema

Ready Wrap or Juxta-Fit- used in the treatment phase as well in maintenance to easily get on and off independently

Circular Knit Compression Stockings Circular-knit compression stockings, like regular ladies’ nylons, are knitted on a cylinder and have no seam. The same number of loops per row is used over the whole length of the stocking. Circular knitting is primarily suitable for manufacturing support stockings, stockings for prophylaxis, and Class 1-3 compression stockings. Seamless circular-knit stockings can be made finer/thinner and cosmetically more attractive than stockings produced by flat-knitting.

Flat Knit Compression Stockings (custom made) Compression stockings produced by flat-knit machines are knit row by row, following a knitting pattern. Flat-knit stockings can be produced in almost unlimited shapes and sizes in accordance with the presented anatomical shape, and can also be made to fit extreme deformities. This flat-knit process is suitable for custom-made products, especially for higher compression classes (3 and 4). Because of their perfect fit, the stockings (when measured correctly) deliver a precise level of compression, as well as a pressure gradient, even for extreme body shapes. Flat-knit stockings are thicker and have a seam.

There are guidelines to the level of compression that is right for you. Normally your doctor will prescribe you the appropriate level. However these are some guidelines

15-20mmHg Mild Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs
• Mild ankle and leg swelling
• Mild swelling during pregnancy

20-30mmHg Moderate Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs
• Mild to moderate ankle and leg swelling
• Mild to moderate swelling during pregnancy

30-40mmHg Firm Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs Moderate ankle and leg swelling
• Moderate swelling during pregnancy

There are guidelines to the level of compression that is right for you. Normally your doctor will prescribe you the appropriate level. However these are some guidelines

15-20mmHg Mild Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs
• Mild ankle and leg swelling
• Mild swelling during pregnancy

20-30mmHg Moderate Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs
• Mild to moderate ankle and leg swelling
• Mild to moderate swelling during pregnancy

30-40mmHg Firm Support Designed to Help:

• Improve circulation
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs Moderate ankle and leg swelling
• Moderate swelling during pregnancy

“Durable medical equipment” simply means medical equipment or supplies that you use at home.

An improperly fitted sleeve can make lymphedema worse by placing too much or too little pressure on certain areas of the limb — which can cause fluid backup to worsen. In some cases, your lymphedema therapist may do the fitting, in others, the medical supply company’s fitter will. He or she will take measurements of the arm, hand, chest, or other area to select the right sleeve or other garment for you, or order a custom garment. Just be sure to ask how many people either your therapist or the fitter has worked with in the past.

Typically they need to be replaced every 3 to 6 months because they lose stretchiness over time. Consider buying two sleeves or garments so you can alternate them for washings.

If you’re getting a compression sleeve, ask your lymphedema therapist if you should wear a glove or gauntlet on your hand, too. This is especially important if you’ve ever had any hint of symptoms in the hand — for example, heaviness, tingling, or swelling — no matter how mild or short-lasting.

There also is some concern that wearing just a sleeve might trigger lymphedema in the hand. Sometimes a glove or gauntlet is recommended as a precaution until you see how your body adapts to the sleeve. Or, if you haven’t had any hand symptoms, your lymphedema therapist may ask you to pay attention to any changes in the feeling or appearance of your hand.

Avoid applying moisturizers to your arm and hand before putting on the sleeve. Their ingredients can break down the elastic fibers in the sleeve over time.

Know that insurance plans don’t always cover the cost of compression sleeves and other garments. You can ask your lymphedema therapist or garment fitter about other patients’ experiences with insurance coverage. However, you may have to pay out-of-pocket. The cost of a sleeve or garment can range from $50 to $300, sometimes more for custom sleeves.