Lymphedema, Compression Stockings, Compression Tape, Compression Gloves

What are lymphedema and edema?

Lymphedema is the retention of fluid (lymph) in the lymph nodes causing swelling. Edema is the medical term for swelling, and is a general response of the body to injury or inflammation due to allergic reaction, disease or medical condition. Such swelling often occurs in the hands, arms or legs. Post-operative swelling will occur at the site of the surgical wound. Long periods of bed rest or inactivity may also result in edema of the lower extremities.

Lymph is a clear fluid containing oxygen, proteins, glucose and white blood cells that fight infection. It is seldom seen, as it traverses the body through the capillaries of the circulatory system, being absorbed into all cells and organs in the body, and draining through the lymphatic system. Primary lymphedema is an inherited condition, and is rare. Secondary lymphedema results when the lymphatic system is damaged or lymph nodes are removed. This is common following breast (or other) cancer surgery and/or radiation treatment.

What causes edema and can it be treated?

Edema could result from an insect bite, a cut or scrape, injury such as a twisted or broken ankle, or an allergic reaction to medications or other substances. The swelling may be temporary; in which case it will subside once healing has occurred. Edema may also develop from ongoing medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, liver or kidney disease, vascular problems such as severe varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis. Mild leg edema is common during pregnancy, though some serious pregnancy complications may also result in swelling and should be assessed.

Left unchecked, edema or lymphedema can result in lack of mobility, pain and in some cases shortness of breath, which can be accompanied by low oxygen levels in the blood. Consult with your physician to determine the cause and any required treatment, should you experience unusual swelling of the extremities. Treatments may include prescription medications, low salt dietary recommendations, therapeutic massage and the wearing of compression garments such as stockings, arm sleeves, and gloves.

What are compression garments?

Compression garments are made from special knit fabrics that include combinations of cotton, Spandex, Lycra, natural rubber and other stretchable materials. The level of compression varies from gentle to extra-firm, designated x – y mmHg.

The constant pressure keeps blood and lymph fluid from pooling in the extremities or at surgical sites, and enhances the flow toward the heart for post-operative patients and those undergoing treatment for vascular problems. Some garments such as hose and arm sleeves apply graduated pressure that increases toward the hand or foot. Other designs maintain the same pressure throughout the garment.

What types of compression stockings are available? When would I wear them?

Compression stockings come in knee-high, thigh-high, or full-length panty hose styles in neutral shades or black. They can be open-toed or cover the entire foot. Some are unisex stockings, while other designs are suitable replacements for men’s dress socks or women’s formal wear stockings.

Compression stockings can be worn throughout the day, under clothing instead of regular socks or stockings. They can also be worn when bedridden due to illness or following surgery. Such stockings may also be useful for those whose legs have a tendency to swell during airline flights, and to help reduce swelling during similar periods of inactivity. Compression stockings are normally removed while sleeping to allow the skin to breathe. Pillows may be used to elevate the legs to encourage healthy circulation during the nighttime hours.

What about compression gloves (gauntlets) and arm sleeves? Are there different types?

Compression gloves (sometimes referred to as gauntlets) are used to address swelling of the hands. They often have open fingertips though some designs fully encompass the hands. Compression gloves may be worn with or without an arm sleeve, which applies compression from the wrist to just below the armpit. Both are a common post-operative protocol following mastectomies or cosmetic breast surgery to reduce upper extremity lymphedema. They are available in differing compression levels to address mild, moderate or extreme edema.

Special bandaging materials may be useful as well.

Several types of bandaging and padding materials are available that may be used to protect the skin and provide comfort underneath compression bandages when used to help reduce swelling of the extremities. Use of these materials may be indicated as part of post-surgical or post-injury wound management.

 Rehabmart is pleased to offer a diverse selection of superior quality lymphedema products from respected manufacturers that include North Coast, BSN Medical and Juzo.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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