COMPRESSION GARMENTS
Keep the swelling under control, enjoy peace of mind and improve the quality of your life.
A compression garment is a piece of clothing such as anklet, stocking, pantyhose, bra, armsleeve, etc, that provides support to an area of the body if you suffer from poor circulation, varicose veins, blood clots and where swelling is present. The garments come in varying degrees of compression calculated in milligram of mercury, which can be determine by your doctor or lymphoedema therapist.
A support stocking or pantyhose is a "ready to wear" garment designed for people standing for long periods of times or during pregnancy if no other problems are present. We can order the one of your choice.
A medical compression stocking is available in the "ready to wear" and custom-made form. It is designed to manage conditions such as lymphoedema and venous insufficiency:
To prevent or decrease swelling during pregnancy
To decrease aching and tiredness in the legs with venous problems
To prevent condition such as ulcer and cellulitis where swelling is present
To maintain a reduction in swelling following the intense treatment for lymphoedema
A compression armsleeve is available in "ready to wear" and custom-made. It is designed to manage swelling in primary and secondary lymphoedema in the arm and encourages lymph flow. Armsleeve are available in different forms:
wrist to shoulder
with gauntlet when swelling is present in the hand
with a glove when swelling is present in the hand and fingers
with shoulder cap
with a silicone border
A compression bra is available in "ready to wear" and can be altered to fit the individual. This bra is designed to manage lymphoedema in the breast, the thorax and the axilla. We have 2 different brands in different colors available.
We can provide the following services when it comes to compression garments:
Conduct an assessment
Measuring
Ordering
Fitting
We recommend that you book for a one hour and half appointment for measuring and fitting and include a lymphatic drainage massage for best results, particularly on the initial visit.
You can re-order a replacement garment over the phone if you are certain that no changes have occurred. Should you wish to be on the safe side, please book an assessment for half an hour for measuring and fitting only.
Sigvaris Compression Vest
Sigvaris Compression Wrap
Sigvaris Chipsleeve
CONDITIONS THAT BENEFIT FROM COMPRESSION
WEARING YOUR GARMENT
Wear rubber gloves to adhere to the fabric and improve your grip
Do not wear jewellery when donning the garment to avoid damaging the fabric
Turn the stocking inside out at the heel
Pull the stocking up over the foot to the heel
Lift the fabric up over the heel
Pull the stocking up to the knee and thigh in stages
Donning your stockings
CARING FOR YOUR GARMENT
Wear gloves when donning your garment
Wash your stocking daily in cold or tepid water with a mild detergent
Do not use bleach or fabric softener
Do not tumble dry
Dry the garment on the line in the shade
To minimize blood stain, wash the garment as soon as possible
LIFESTYLE TIPS
Have two (2) garments: one to wear and one to wash
Wear your compression garment first thing in the morning daily
Care for your skin
Drink plenty of water
Eat plenty of roughage to prevent constipation
Cold shower your legs at night
Avoid heat
Wear supporting shoes
Avoid constricting clothing
Do not cross your legs
Have your feet supported when seated
Exercise your feet, toes and ankles when sitting for a long period of time
Put your feet up to allow gravity to drain your legs when lying down
Exercise – walk where you can and use the stairs
Stop and stretch your legs during a long car journey
In an aircraft – wear your garment, take your shoes off and walk up and down the aisle
