Compression
Medical Grade vs Over the Counter (OTC)
The biggest difference between medical grade vs over the counter (OTC) is the amount of pressure that a garment provides.
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Medical grade compression must be prescribed by a doctor as the amount of pressure being administered must be monitored by a healthcare provider and should always be fitted by a Certified Compression Fitter.
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Over the Counter (OTC) compression does not have to be prescribed by a medical professional and can be bought at most department or drug stores. It is not covered by insurance and can aid in helping with mild swelling, aches, and pains.
Lymphedema Compression Garments
Lymphedema is a serious medical condition that can result after the surgical removal of lymph nodes. It oftentimes follows breast cancer surgery or radiation therapy. Symptoms include a feeling of heaviness, or aches and swelling of the arm, hand, breast, chest or back. If you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, your doctor has probably prescribed a lymphedema compression sleeve, glove, or compression bra or vest. Your lymphedema garment must be the right size, type and fit to reduce swelling and discomfort. Advanced Lymphedema & Neuropathy certified compression garment fitters can measure and fit compression arm sleeves, compression gauntlets, compression gloves or compression bras and lymphedema compression night garments.
Compression Therapy is a key treatment for Lymphedema
It involves the use of specially designed garments or bandages that apply pressure to reduce swelling and promote lymphatic drainage.
Types of Compression
Compression garments, such as sleeves or stockings, and low-stretch bandages are commonly used to encourage lymph fluid to flow back toward the trunk of the body jobst-usa.com+1.
Benefits
This therapy not only helps in reducing edema but also sustains improvements achieved during treatment, enhancing the quality of life for patients jobst-usa.com+1.
Importance
Compression therapy is considered an essential part of Complex/Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT), which is the gold standard for managing lymphedema