How I Fit Patients For Compression Garments for Lipedema
I compare buying compression garments to buying a pair of jeans. Even though the measurements match yours, you won’t know if they fit properly until you try them on! As with any clothing, it is nice to have options for compression garments based on your daily needs. When first looking for compression garments I recommend buying one garment to make sure it fits properly and it does its job and then you can buy more if wanted!
Here are 3 things that I consider when fitting my patients with lipedema for compression:
1. Has the person ever worn compression and how do they feel about being in compressive garments?
Some compression garments are more loose/have less containment than others. These are great garments to start with because this allows women to build a tolerance to the garment. Sometimes a compression garment with less tightness is easier to tolerate in the summer months as well (#CruelSummer)!
2. What is the material of the garment like?
A great compression garment for lipedema is thicker because it prevents the garment from rolling into the tissue causing pain and a tourniquet effect. Having different crevices/folds/cuffs is very normal when having lipedema. When the compression garment is too thin, it can roll itself into these areas and be painful as well as cause more swelling.
3. Does the compression garment have a gradient?
Having a compression gradient is a MUST when you have the combination of lipedema and lymphedema. When a compression garment has a gradient it means it is tighter towards the end of the garment (foot/ankle and wrist) and becomes more loose as the garment goes up the leg or arm. This supports the lymphatic fluid and helps decrease swelling!
It doesn’t take long to learn that managing Lipedema is costly. So when looking for the right pair of compression garments for YOU, it is important to look at the return policy of where you are buying and check your medical insurance for possible coverage. Please remember my motto with wearing compression and managing Lipedema, “Something is better than nothing.” Wearing compression for a few hours is better than not at all!