FAQs About Lymphedema Garments and Bandaging

What is a compression garment or bandaging?

Compression garments and bandaging help apply pressure to the affected lymphatic area to keep lymph moving in the right direction. Wearing a compression garment or bandage as part of your overall treatment plan may help lessen lymphedema. Both garments and bandaging are made of flexible fabric. They are designed to create the graded pressure (15 mmHG to 50 mmHG, depending on the site) that keeps the lymph moving in the right direction.

What types of bandages and compression garments are used to treat lymphedema?

The bandages that are applied by your therapist during Complete/Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) are called "short-stretch" bandages. They look like ACE™ bandages, but they are much less stretchy.

·      Phase I of CDT: Short-stretch compression bandaging is used with or without a foam pad/chip bag. For the upper extremity, there are often more layers further down on the limb and fewer layers higher up. This creates a pressure gradient (from more pressure to less pressure) that helps fluid move up and out of the arm. The bandages should feel snug but not tight.

·      Phase II of CDT: Wearing a compression sleeve or garment may help move fluid and prevent the buildup of fluid. If you are getting a compression sleeve on your arm, ask your lymphedema therapist if you should wear a glove or gauntlet on your hand as well. Sometimes, a glove or gauntlet is recommended until you see how your body adapts to the sleeve.

Your therapist or healthcare provider will measure you. It is very important that your sleeve or garment is properly fitted by an experienced provider. An improperly-fitted sleeve can make lymphedema worse by placing too much or too little pressure on certain areas of the limb. 

Can I use ACE™ bandages for my lymphedema?

No – you should not use ACE™ bandages to treat lymphedema. The elastic in the ACE™ bandages will create a tourniquet effect (will stop the flow of blood) on your limb, which may make your lymphedema worse.

If I have swelling, can I purchase a garment?

If you have swelling, it is best to have a healthcare provider examine you to see if you have lymphedema. If you have lymphedema, you should be seen by a Lymphedema Therapist to find the best type of compression for you. Buying a garment without the help of a professional may lead to improper fitting and can make your lymphedema worse. You can ask your provider for a referral to a therapist or find a lymphedema specialist here. 

Where can I get lymphedema bandages?

Your lymphedema therapist will order the supplies to begin the bandaging process. Only experienced providers with appropriate training should apply compression bandages. You and your caregivers will also be trained by your therapist to manage the bandages.

Bandaging usually involves your affected limb and may also include the affected hand or foot. The bandages can be bulky but should still allow free movement of your limb.

Will my insurance cover my lymphedema garment?

It depends. The Lymphedema Treatment Act became law in 2024 and improves insurance coverage for compression supplies when they are medically necessary and prescribed by your healthcare provider.  If you have Medicare Part B, your compression treatment options will be covered at 80%. 

If you have another type of insurance, check with them about your coverage. For compression garments, a prescription is required from your provider. If your insurance does not cover garments, you may have to pay out-of-pocket. If you cannot afford your garments, financial assistance may be available through the National Lymphedema Network Garment Program.

When should I wear my garment?

Your therapist will help teach you as to when you should wear your garment. Depending on how severe your lymphedema is, the bandages are applied 2 to 4 times per week for 2 to 6 weeks. Once your swelling has improved, your limb can be measured for compression garments. Most likely, you will be told to wear your garment throughout the day. It is often suggested that you put it on first thing in the morning and remove it in the evening.

Can I sleep with my garments?

Don’t wear your compression garments while sleeping at night. They can cause a tourniquet effect in bed and cause more swelling or limit blood flow. Compression garments are replaced by bandaging or specially made nighttime garments for sleeping.

When do I need to replace my garments?

Your compression garment must be replaced every 3 to 6 months.

·      If you have been measured by a professional and have no changes in swelling, you can order them directly from the manufacturer.

·      If your body part has changed size, you will need to be measured again for a new garment. Be sure you are measured again by a professional. Do not buy another garment on your own.

How do I care for my garments?

Wash your garments at least every other day. Sweating can cause rapid breakdown of the garment, causing you to need a replacement sooner. Washing instructions are included with each garment. In general, hand or machine wash with a mild liquid detergent in warm water, then roll in a towel to squeeze out excess moisture (do not wring) and hang to dry. Some manufacturers of garments make their own washing solutions as well. Garments dry better when hung in an airy location. Also, it is recommended that you do NOT hang outside as sunlight may cause a faster loss of garment stretch.

What is the best way to put my garments on?

Household rubber gloves should be used to put on your garment correctly and safely. The gloves protect the garments from pulls and snags caused by jewelry and fingernails. Gloves also let you 'smooth' or 'massage' the garment into place without stretching, pinching, or pulling it. Put the garment on in stages as you have been taught, small sections at a time.

For a proper fit, line up the fabric and seams so the lines run vertically (up and down the body part) and straight. DO NOT fold the garment over or let it roll. It is a common mistake to overstretch the garment when putting it on. If the garment is bunching up, use the gloves to spread the fabric down.

Can I use a moisturizer before putting my garment on?

Use skin moisturizer just before bandaging or after bathing and give it time to absorb well. Do NOT use it right before putting on your garment. Fabrics are less tolerant of lotions and ointments. Only use a light dusting of cornstarch if needed to help the garment go on. Ointments with a petroleum base are NOT recommended as they can damage some elastic garments. If you have trouble slipping your garment on despite using some cornstarch, there are other options. Don't be afraid to ask your therapist for suggestions and more training at any time.