What to know about custom-made compression garments

Unlike a standard ready-to-wear size, a custom garment is produced from measurements taken at several points on the affected limb or body area. It may be recommended when swelling changes the shape of an area, standard sizes crease or slip, or a particular level and pattern of support is needed.

The garment applies graduated external pressure that helps fluid move through functioning lymphatic pathways. It can help maintain improvements achieved through lymphoedema care, but it does not replace skin care, movement or other parts of a treatment plan.

Have the garment measured and checked by a clinician trained in compression fitting. Follow the prescribed wearing schedule, smooth out wrinkles, and avoid rolling the top edge because a tight band can concentrate pressure. Dressing aids or rubber gloves may make application easier without pulling hard on the fabric.

Check the skin after removal for broken areas, blisters or marks that do not settle. Wash and dry the garment according to its care label so heat, fabric softener or stretching does not damage its compression. Arrange reassessment if the garment becomes loose, repeatedly slips, digs in, or becomes difficult to apply after the swelling or body shape changes.

Remove the garment and contact your care team promptly if it causes new pain, pins and needles, numbness, marked colour change, unusual coldness, broken skin or worsening swelling beyond an edge. These signs can indicate excessive pressure or a poor fit.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden breathlessness or chest pain. New redness, warmth, tenderness, fever or rapidly increasing swelling also needs prompt assessment before the garment is worn again, because infection or another acute problem may need treatment.

Ask which compression level and garment style suit the affected area, when to put it on and take it off, whether it should be worn during exercise or travel, and who to contact if the fit changes. Also confirm how often measurements and the garment's condition should be reviewed.