The first type of compression garment used in the treatment and management of lymphedema is the compression bandage. After successful treatment and limb reduction, the patient then moves onto compression stockings.
The final type of compression apparel worn by lymphedema patients is generally referred to as a sleeve and is used in both arm lymphedema and leg lymphedema.
These garments made especially for lymphedema are much heavier duty then the traditional stocking or the compression bandage. Many people wear them at night as a substitution for wrapping. They are also helpful for people who are unable to do the bandage wrapping.
Other benefits to these sleeves is that they can help break down areas of fibrosis (tissue hardening) and can help not only in maintaining the size of a limb, but in actually decreasing its size by assising in the removal of fluids. The newer and improved products are even designed to where they match the lymph flow pattern of the body, thereby increasing fluid movement.
At the NLN’s medical convention in 2006, I tried an arm sleeve on my left arm which was made by Tollesto MedTech and was absolutely amazed at how much fluid it moved out of my arm just in the 15 mintues I had it on.
Fitting is actually done by a therapist certified in the particular garment they fit you with. For example a Reid Sleeve would be fitted by an individual trained and/or certified for that particular product. This is critical as a poor fitting sleeve can cause extensive skin irritation and may wind up causing even more swelling dur to inflammation.
In this section there will be descriptions and uses of various lymphedema garments, sleeves and wraps. As is possible, I am trying to include clinical trials. Otherwise, information will be based on manufacturer information. There are direct links to each of the manufacturers home web site so you can view actual products, learn about measuring and fitting.
Inclusion in this list is for information only and does not mean I either endorse or promote one over the other. This will be a discussion between you, your doctor and your lymphedema therapists in deciding which one is best for you.
Also, I would normally include images of the products, but have omitted them in this page due to the direct product links that are listed.
If visitors and members know of other companies that offer these type of products and would like to have them included in the page, please email me with the company information.
How does the Reid Sleeve Work?
Clinical Research on the Reid Sleeve - Results of Treatment with the Reid Sleeve
Results in patients with moderate to severe edema
Results of Clinical Trial - The Reid Sleeve is an Effective Treatment for Lymphedema
Summary of Results
Analysis of the Patients Feelings about Treatment with the Reid Sleeve.
Summary of results.
Treatment Recommendations
Office Protocol
Frequently asked Questions about the Reid Sleeve
Reid Sleeve for the lower extremity.
Advantages of The Reid Sleeve
Visit the home site for a extended on all Peninsula products
Sleeve-like units filled with hundreds of foam chips, designed with a unique channeling system to help direct the lymphatic flow to alternate pathways and bypass the areas of obstruction. This system is should be used under short-stretch bandages, with a pneumatic compression pump or under an outer compression unit.
Compression Bandages and Supplies bullet Cotton stockinette bullet Elastic gauze bandages bullet High density foam rubber pads and moldings bullet Padding bandages bullet Short-stretch compression bandages
Compression stockings, includes compression gloves for hands
Jobst and Juso - illustrations
Manual Lymphatic Drainage MLD Complex Decongestive Therapy CDT
Lymphedema and Pain Management
Lymphedema and Pain Management
Short Stretch Bandages for Lymphedema
Compression Garments Stockings for Lymphedema