SurgeryRecoveryRN

Lymphedema Compression Garments by ContourMD

Lymphedema is a swelling of the arms or legs caused by a blockage of the lymphatic system, which prevents lymph fluid from draining properly.

There’s no cure for lymphedema, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as infections, skin ulcers, elephantiasis (severe hardening of the skin), and even cancer. Common lymphedema treatments include massage therapy, exercise, and the use of compression garments. The goal of lymphedema treatment is to decrease pain and swelling and improve mobility.

Massage therapy and exercise help to minimize lymphedema symptoms by moving lymph out of the affected limb, which decreases swelling.

Lymphedema compression garments help keep fluid from building up in your limbs. Compression garments should be put on first thing in the morning and worn throughout the day. When worn during exercise, compression garments may help prevent swelling from lymphedema in an affected limb. It’s particularly important for you to wear a compression garment when traveling by air, because lymphedema can become worse at high altitudes.

Compression garment options for lymphedema swelling of the hands and arms include compression gauntlets and arm sleeves. For leg swelling due to lymphedema, compression stockings are the garment of choice.