Swelling, tightness and discomfort—these are just some of the signs that point to lymphoedema. It can develop slowly or show up after surgery, cancer treatment or injury. Whatever the cause, it can affect daily life in big ways. Managing it takes the right tools, and one of the most important is the compression garment.
Compression garments aren’t just tight sleeves or stockings. When used properly, they’re medical devices designed to reduce swelling, improve fluid flow and protect affected limbs. As part of a well-rounded lymphoedema treatment plan, they help people take control and feel more confident with their condition.
Let’s break down how they work, why they matter and what to know before using them.
The Role of Compression in Managing Lymphoedema
Lymphoedema happens when fluid builds up in soft tissues, usually in the arms or legs. It can occur after damage to lymph vessels—often from surgery, trauma or radiation. The lymphatic system can’t clear the fluid fast enough, so swelling sets in.
Compression helps by:
- Applying gentle, even pressure
- Supporting the muscles and tissue underneath
- Encouraging lymph fluid to move toward healthy drainage pathways
A good garment fits snugly without cutting into the skin. It should feel firm but comfortable. When worn consistently, it keeps swelling down and reduces the risk of hardening (fibrosis) over time.
This is especially important when understanding the different stages of lymphoedema. Early use of compression can often prevent the condition from progressing into more advanced, harder-to-manage stages.
Types of Compression Garments Available
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to managing lymphoedema. The type of garment you need depends on the limb affected, the stage of swelling and how your body responds to treatment.
Here are the main types:
- Ready-to-wear (off-the-shelf) – Available in basic sizes, often used for mild to moderate swelling.
- Custom-made – Tailored to exact limb measurements, useful for uneven swelling or unusual limb shapes.
- Flat-knit garments – Provide strong, consistent pressure. Best for long-term management or advanced stages.
- Circular-knit garments – Lighter and more flexible. Ideal for early-stage lymphoedema or prevention.
Garments can include:
- Arm sleeves and gauntlets
- Stockings (knee-high, thigh-high, full-leg)
- Compression vests or bodysuits
- Special wraps for toes or fingers
Each style has its use, and often, your therapist will combine types depending on what the limb needs most. Some people may also use night-time garments, which provide lighter pressure while sleeping.
Modern options come in skin tones and even colourful patterns. This helps reduce stigma and makes the experience feel a bit more personal.
When choosing a garment, it’s important to talk with a specialist. They’ll help match the type, compression class and fit with your specific needs. This is a key step in getting results from any of the top lymphoedema treatment options available today.
How Compression Works with Movement
Wearing a garment isn’t just about keeping swelling down while sitting. It’s even more effective when paired with gentle activity. Movement activates the muscles, which work like a pump. Compression helps guide that fluid back into the body’s drainage system.
For example:
- Walking with a leg garment helps shift fluid upward.
- Doing arm exercises with a sleeve supports drainage.
- Daily tasks like cooking or cleaning can also help, when done in short, manageable bursts.
One case involved a Brisbane woman managing lymphoedema in her arm after breast cancer surgery. She used a flat-knit sleeve daily while gardening and walking. After six months, her swelling reduced significantly, and she regained almost full motion in her shoulder.
This shows how pairing compression with active living can improve outcomes and quality of life. It also aligns with early lymphoedema treatment and prevention methods that focus on staying ahead of swelling rather than chasing it once it worsens.
Getting the Right Fit and Compression Class
The effectiveness of any compression garment starts with the right fit. A poorly fitting sleeve or stocking won’t do its job—and worse, it can cut circulation or make swelling worse.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Measurements should be taken by a trained therapist
- Fitting should happen when swelling is lowest (often in the morning)
- The garment should apply more pressure at the far end (like the hand or foot) and less pressure as it moves up
Compression garments come in different classes:
- Class 1 (light compression) – Best for early signs or prevention
- Class 2 (moderate) – Often used for daily management
- Class 3+ (firm or high) – Reserved for advanced or stubborn swelling
Most people don’t need high compression unless advised by a specialist. More pressure doesn’t always mean better results—in fact, it can lead to skin problems or make movement harder.
If your garment slips, digs into the skin or leaves deep marks, it’s likely the wrong fit. Always get help adjusting or replacing it if it doesn’t feel right.
When and How to Wear Compression Garments
Timing matters. Wearing your garment only now and then won’t help much. Regular use—especially during the day—is key.
Here’s a simple guide:
- Morning: Put it on as soon as you get out of bed, before swelling builds
- Throughout the day: Wear it during normal activity, work or errands
- Evening: Remove it before bed unless using a night-specific garment
Garments should be worn during:
- Exercise or walking
- Standing or sitting for long periods
- Travel (especially flying)
Take breaks if needed, especially if you feel discomfort. But the more consistent you are, the more stable your swelling will stay.
Caring for Compression Garments
These aren’t regular clothing items. Compression garments need proper care to work well and last long.
Follow these basic rules:
- Wash daily with mild soap (hand wash or gentle machine cycle)
- Air dry flat—never wring or tumble dry
- Replace every 6 months, or sooner if the garment feels loose or stretched
Keeping them clean protects your skin and helps maintain the right pressure. Also, inspect your skin daily for any redness, blisters or dry patches. Good garment care is part of good skin care too.
Challenges People Face with Compression Garments
Despite all the benefits, wearing compression garments isn’t always easy. People often report:
- Difficulty putting them on (especially with limited hand strength)
- Heat or discomfort during warmer months
- Embarrassment or stigma around visible garments
- Cost, especially for custom or higher-class types
There are ways to manage these challenges:
- Use donning gloves or donning aids
- Choose lighter, breathable fabrics for hot weather
- Ask your therapist about colour options or less visible styles
- Look into funding, private health or NDIS if cost is a barrier
Garment use can feel like a chore at first. But with support and the right tools, it becomes part of your daily rhythm.
Compression vs Bandaging: What’s the Difference?
Sometimes people confuse compression garments with bandaging. Both manage lymphoedema, but they serve different purposes.
Compression garments are:
- Worn daily for maintenance
- Designed for long-term use
- Easy to wear with clothes and during activity
Bandaging is:
- Part of intensive treatment (often done by therapists)
- Used to reduce swelling before garment fitting
- Typically worn short-term or in between stages
Some people will start with bandaging in early treatment, then move to garments once the swelling is controlled. Knowing when to switch—and how to maintain results—is something best done with guidance from a trained professional.
FAQs
1) Are compression garments painful to wear?
They shouldn’t be. If your garment causes pain, it’s likely too tight, wrongly sized or being worn incorrectly. At most, a good garment feels snug, like a firm hug. Some mild discomfort at first is normal as your body adjusts. But ongoing pain, skin irritation or numbness is not. Compression should support—not squeeze—your limb. If you feel pain, remove it and speak to your therapist. They may need to adjust the size, pressure or fabric type. In some cases, people with joint pain or sensitive skin need softer materials or custom fits. Always raise concerns early. Pain isn’t something to push through.
2) How do I know if my compression garment is working?
Signs it’s working include:
- Reduced swelling over time
- Less heaviness or tightness in the limb
- Better movement or flexibility
- Fewer skin issues
You might also notice that clothing or shoes fit better. The key is consistency. Don’t expect overnight results. Progress is usually slow but steady. If you stop wearing it for a few days and swelling returns, that’s another sign the garment is doing its job. Keep a symptom journal if unsure. And always check in with your therapist during reviews to track progress.
3) Can I wear compression garments overnight?
Not usually—unless you’ve been prescribed a specific night garment. Day garments apply stronger pressure, which isn’t safe to wear lying down for long. Night garments are softer, padded and made to support without restricting. They’re ideal for people with ongoing swelling that worsens overnight. Never wear regular daytime compression to bed unless your therapist has clearly said it’s safe. Doing so may risk cutting off circulation or causing joint pain. If you’re unsure what type of garment you have, ask before using it at night.
4) Do I need to wear compression garments forever?
For many people, yes. Lymphoedema is a long-term condition. Compression helps control symptoms but doesn’t cure it. The good news? With proper use, many people reduce their swelling and only need lighter garments over time. Some may only wear them during flare-ups or travel. Others wear them daily as part of routine care. Like glasses for weak eyesight, compression is often a lifelong support tool. It becomes part of how you manage your health, not something that defines it. Regular reviews help adjust the plan as your needs change.
5) Can I exercise with compression garments on?
Yes—and it’s encouraged. In fact, movement with compression is one of the best ways to improve lymph flow. Walking, stretching or light strength training all help. Just make sure the garment fits well and doesn’t shift during activity. Avoid overheating or overexertion. Stay hydrated and rest if needed. Exercise also boosts mental health, mobility and weight control—all of which support better lymphoedema outcomes. Always start slow and build gradually. If unsure what type of movement is safe for your stage of swelling, speak to your therapist for guidance.
A Practical Path to Relief and Control
Lymphoedema isn’t something you ignore or fight through. It’s something you manage—with the right help. Compression garments are more than just clothing—they’re part of your care, comfort and confidence. When fitted well, used consistently and paired with healthy habits, they make a real difference.
It’s not always easy, especially at first. But over time, you’ll build a rhythm. You’ll start noticing the good days stacking up. That’s the power of proper support.
If you’re ready to take charge of your lymphoedema care, Melbourne Hand Therapy offers expert guidance and fittings tailored to you. Visit Melbourne Hand Therapy to find out how they can support your journey—because comfort, control and confidence start with the right fit.
Please call us today (03) 9000 0557 or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
