What is compression?

Compression therapy plays a central role in the treatment of lipedema, lymphedema, and venous conditions. It serves two main purposes: to reduce swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the tissues and to reduce venous reflux and venous hypertension. Furthermore, compression therapy has an anti-inflammatory effect. The term "compression" refers to mechanical pressure exerted from the outside onto skin and tissue. Special medical compression garments and bandages are used to apply this pressure to the affected limb. Tissue repair in wounds of venous origin can also be improved with compression by reducing venous pressure. The skin and tissue are then under less strain and can be better supplied with nutrients, such as oxygen.

Compression therapy means wearing special medical compression garments that come in different lengths and styles to suit a variety of diseases and individual needs. Types of compression products include: 

• Flat-knit compression garments 
• Circular-knit compression garments 
• Adjustable compression wraps 
• Night-time compression garments
• Bandages  
• Compression bras 

Compression therapy is recommended for individuals with lipedema, lymphedema, and venous diseases. For those who experience heavy, swollen legs during pregnancy, or those who sit or stand for extended periods at work, compression therapy can provide relief. People who regularly take long flights or journeys will benefit from wearing compression stockings, too.

Ask your Healthcare Professional for more information about wearing compression garments. They will be happy to provide detailed advice about the application possibilities of compression solutions and further benefits of compression therapy.

Compression therapy offers numerous benefits for managing venous conditions such as varicose veins, and venous leg ulcers. The pressure in the veins near the ankles is seven times higher when standing than when lying down. This pressure contributes significantly to the development of venous disorders. Compression garments help by enhancing the pumping action of muscles and by acting as a counterforce to limit fluid filtration into the tissues.

Benefits:

• Reduces venous hypertension 
• Increases blood flow velocity in the extremities 
• Improves blood flow from the extremities towards the heart 
• Reduces blood reflux and stagnation 
• Enhances drainage of the deep venous system 
• Prevents fluid from leaking into surrounding tissues 
• Decreases edema 
• Alleviates pain and exudation from wounds 
• Shortens healing time and reduces recurrence of venous leg ulcers 

Lymphedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system where lymph fluid accumulates in the tissue space. This causes swelling and discomfort in the affected limb. Compression solutions, such as those offered by JOBST, are an important component in managing this condition by exerting pressure from the outside onto the tissue. 

Benefits:

• Helps move lymphatic fluid to the center of the body for proper drainage
• Prevents fluid from reaccumulating in the affected body part
• Maintains the volume and shape of the affected body part
• Supports the fluid transport and recovery in the lymphatic system

Lipedema involves the disproportional, symmetrical accumulation of fat in the legs and sometimes arms. For lipedema to be diagnosed, there must also be pain in the legs. Compression therapy, especially when combined with movement, can provide significant relief and improve quality of life for individuals with lipedema.

Benefits: 

• Reduces pain due to anti-inflammatory effects 
• Provides support to the limbs, aiding mobility 
• Reduces the mechanical impairment of movement from skin lobes rubbing against each other 

Compression therapy is generally considered safe when properly prescribed and fitted by a Healthcare Professional. It is essential for users to follow medical advice and ensure the correct use of compression garments. Always consult with a Healthcare Professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.