Compression (1) as Lymphedema Treatment

INTRODUCTION

Three different varieties of compression are used in the treatment of lymphedema. Although different methods are used the goals of this type of treatment are to:

• Maintain the progress made during the MLD treatment in reducing the swelling.
• Prevent, or minimize, additional swelling. Support the natural draining of lymph from the tissues.
• Stimulate the flow of lymph by providing resistance that enhances the effectiveness of muscle and joint movements.
• Aid in softening fibrotic (hardened) tissues.

COMPRESSION

Three major types of compression are used to effectively meet the compression needs and goals of the patient with different needs and at different levels of activity.

The compression methods are listed here to provide an overview. More detailed descriptions, and illustrations, are included in the article cited at the end of each description.

Self-bandaging

BANDAGING

Bandaging, which is also known as wrapping, is the most effective and flexible form of compression particularly in the early stage of treatment. Bandages have the advantages that they:

• Can be worn when the patient is active or resting up to 24 hours a day.
• Are adjustable to fit properly, with appropriate compression, as the affected limb changes in size.
• To learn more about bandaging, read the article titled Compression (2) Bandaging

KNIT COMPRESSION GARMENTS

Knit compression garments, are also known as "day garments." This is because these garments are worn only during the day when the patient is awake and active.

• These knit garments are not worn while the patient is sleeping because they provide too much compression while the body is at rest. Also, if the garment moves out of place during sleep, this can cause constriction that will constrict and damage the circulation.
• These knit garments are constructed as sleeves, gloves, gauntlets (gloves without fingers), and stockings that frequently knee-high or thigh-high. are constructed of knit two-way stretch fabrics.
• They are designed to assist in controlling swelling and to aid in moving lymph from the affected area.
• The amount of compression provided by the garment depends on if way the fabric is constructed. These are commonly a knit fabric or a woven fabric. The choice of fabric is based on the needs of the patient.
• To learn more about these types of garments read Compression (3) Knit Garments.

COMPRESSION AIDS

Compression aids are known as “night garments” because they are usually worn when the patient is resting or sleeping. They are designed to control swelling, enhance the flow of lymph, and to assist in softening fibrotic (hardened) tissues.

• These aids are custom-fitted sleeves, stockings, or pads that are made of a fabric covered layer of foam that is stitched into a pattern to drain lymph away from the affected area.
• If increased compression is required, an outer sleeve (known as a power sleeve) is place over the garment. Another way of gaining more compression is to wrap bandages over the garment .
• To learn more, read Compression (4) Specialized Aids.

REFERENCES

[1] Living Well with Lymphedema by A. Ehrlich, MA, A, Vinjé-Harrewijn PT, CLT-LANA, and E. McMahon PhD. Lymph Notes. 2005.

[2] Lymphedema Caregiver’s Guide by Mary Kathleen Kearse, PT, CLT-LANA, Elizabeth McMahon, PhD, and Ann Ehrlich, MA. Lymph Notes 2009, pages 33-35.

[3] Lymphedema Management: The Comprehensive Guide for Practitioners 2nd ed. by J.E. Zuther. Thieme, 2009.

[4] NLN Position Statement on Treatment (Updated 2011.)

© LymphNotes.com 2011. This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.

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Category: How Lymphedema is Treated Updated: 2011-10-23