What should you know about high compression garment?

Compression is usually strongest at the far end of the limb and becomes lighter higher up. This can support movement of lymph and tissue fluid and help control swelling. The correct strength depends on the cause of swelling, skin condition, sensation, limb shape, circulation, and whether swelling changes during the day. A garment may be a sleeve, glove, stocking, or another custom-shaped item.

Compression Garment care includes checking the skin, washing the garment as instructed, and replacing it when its shape or elasticity changes. Lymphoedema Therapy may combine compression with skin care, movement, and specialist techniques.

Have a trained clinician measure and fit the garment. Put it on smoothly, without folds or rolled edges, and check that fingers or toes remain their usual colour and temperature. Remove it and seek advice if pain, numbness, tingling, new swelling above the garment, skin damage, or marked tightness develops. Do not alter the garment or increase compression without guidance.

Obtain urgent medical help for sudden one-sided swelling with warmth or redness, severe limb pain, chest pain, or breathlessness. Contact the fitting team for persistent discomfort, leaking skin, blisters, a new rash, or a garment that no longer fits.

What level and style of compression is suitable? Who will measure me? When should I wear and remove it? How should I care for my skin and garment? What signs mean I should stop using it, and when should it be refitted?