Everything You Need to Know About the Types and Uses of Compression Garments

Did you know that something as simple as wearing the right garment can improve circulation, reduce swelling, and even aid recovery from injuries? That’s the power of compression garments. Whether you’ve heard about them from a doctor, seen athletes wearing them, or are curious, this guide is here to help you understand their full potential.

In this blog, we’ll explain compression garments, describe the types available, and explore their medical and non-medical uses. By the end, you’ll clearly understand how they work, who benefits from them, and how to choose the best option for your needs.

What Are Compression Garments?

Compression garments are specially designed to apply gentle pressure to specific areas of the body. This pressure helps improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and support muscles and joints. Compression garments are made from stretchy, durable materials that ensure consistent compression over time.

How Do Compression Garments Work?

• Graduated Compression:
  
  • Compression garments are tighter in certain areas (like the ankles) and gradually loosen as they move upward. This design helps push blood or lymphatic fluid back toward the heart, improving circulation.
• Improved Circulation:
  
  • By applying pressure, these garments help veins work more efficiently, preventing blood from pooling in lower limbs.
• Muscle Support:
  
  • Compression garments reduce muscle vibrations during physical activity, preventing fatigue and soreness.

Why Are They Used?

1. Medical Compression Garments:
   
   • Help treat conditions like varicose veins, lymphedema, and chronic venous insufficiency.
2. Everyday Compression Garments:
   
   • Worn by people with active lifestyles, frequent travellers, or those who spend long hours standing to reduce discomfort and swelling.
3. Recovery Support:
   
   • Commonly used for post-surgery recovery or sports recovery to speed up healing.

Types of Compression Garments

Compression garments are available in various forms, each tailored to serve a specific purpose or target area of the body. Understanding the types of compression garments can help you select the right option for your needs, whether for medical use, sports recovery, or everyday comfort.

Common Types of Compression Garments

1. Compression Socks:
   
   • Cover the feet and calves, providing graduated compression tighter at the ankle and loosens as it moves up the leg.
   • Ideal for improving circulation and reducing swelling in the lower legs.
   • Typical uses: Varicose veins treatment garments, travel, and standing for long periods.
2. Compression Sleeves:
   
   • These open-ended garments, designed for arms or calves, offer targeted compression without covering the hands or feet.
   • Typical uses: Sports recovery with compression garments and reducing swelling in localized areas.
3. Compression Gloves:
   
   • Provide compression for the hands and wrists, often used to manage arthritis, swelling, or post-surgery recovery.
   • Typical uses: Compression therapy solutions for hands and wrists.
4. Compression Leggings:
   
   • Offer full-leg compression, often used by athletes or for post-surgical recovery.
   • Typical uses: Compression therapy for varicose veins, managing swelling, and improving blood flow during exercise.
5. Full-Body Compression Suits:
   
   • Cover the entire torso and limbs, offering comprehensive compression for recovery or medical conditions.
   • Typical uses: Post-surgical support or managing severe swelling conditions.
6. Custom Compression Garments:
   
   • Tailored to an individual’s measurements and specific medical needs.
   • Typical uses: Compression garments for lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, or unique body shapes.

Adjustable Compression Garments

• Some garments have adjustable features like straps or Velcro to customize the compression level.
• Helpful for conditions requiring variable support or for individuals with fluctuating swelling.

Smart Compression Garments

• These garments have sensors to monitor blood flow, muscle activity, or other health metrics.
• Ideal for high-tech solutions to recovery and medical care.

Medical and Non-Medical Uses of Compression Garments

Compression garments are versatile and serve various purposes, from treating medical conditions to enhancing athletic performance or everyday comfort. Let’s explore their applications in both medical and non-medical contexts.

Medical Uses of Compression Garments

Compression garments are widely used in healthcare to manage and treat various conditions. Here’s how they help:

1. Managing Circulation Issues:
   
   • Varicose veins treatment garments reduce swelling, improve blood flow, and alleviate discomfort caused by poor circulation.
   • Compression socks for circulation prevent blood pooling in the legs, especially during prolonged standing or sitting.
2. Lymphedema Treatment:
   
   • Compression garments for lymphedema help reduce fluid buildup by encouraging lymphatic drainage.
   • Commonly used after surgeries or for chronic swelling management.
3. Post-Surgery Recovery:
   
   • Compression garments aid healing by minimizing swelling and improving blood flow to surgical sites.
   • Typical applications: Compression garments for post-surgery recovery in knee or hip replacement procedures.
4. Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
   
   • Worn during long flights, hospitalization, or bed rest to reduce the risk of blood clots.
5. Chronic Conditions:
   
   • Help manage symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, arthritis, or severe swelling conditions in compression garments for seniors.

Non-Medical Uses of Compression Garments

Beyond medical treatments, compression garments are popular for everyday and performance-related purposes.

1. Sports Recovery and Performance:
   
   • Athletes use sports recovery with compression garments to reduce muscle fatigue and soreness.
   • Compression leggings and sleeves improve endurance by enhancing blood flow during physical activities.
2. Travel Comfort:
   
   • Frequent travellers benefit from compression wear, which prevents swelling and reduces discomfort during long flights or car rides.
3. Everyday Use:
   
   • Light compression garments provide subtle support for individuals who stand or sit for extended periods.
   • Everyday compression garments are often used to improve posture and reduce fatigue.
4. Aesthetic and Wellness Applications:
   
   • Shapewear-style compression garments smooth and contour the body for cosmetic purposes.
   • Maternity compression garments help pregnant women manage swelling and back discomfort.

Why Choose the Right Garment for Your Needs

Whether you need compression garments for a medical condition or everyday support, understanding their uses ensures you select the right option. Consulting with a healthcare provider or expert is key to making the best choice.

How to Choose the Right Compression Garment

Selecting the right compression garment is crucial for achieving the intended benefits, whether for medical treatment, athletic performance, or daily support. Here’s a simple guide to help you make an informed decision.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Purpose of Use:
   
   • Determine why you need the garment.
     

For example:

1. Compression garments for lymphedema require firm compression levels.
2. Compression socks for circulation are suitable for standing or sitting for long hours.
3. Compression therapy for varicose veins might require a specific style like stockings or leggings.
4. Compression Level: Compression levels are measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) and determine the tightness of the garment.
   

1. Mild Compression (8-15 mmHg):
   
   • Suitable for mild swelling, pregnancy, or travel.
2. Moderate Compression (15-20 mmHg):
   
   • Often recommended for mild varicose veins or prevention of swelling.
3. Firm Compression (20-30 mmHg):
   
   • Ideal for managing lymphedema, moderate varicose veins, or post-surgical recovery.
4. Extra-Firm Compression (30-40 mmHg):
   
   • Used for severe medical conditions prescribed by healthcare professionals.
5. Fit and Size:
   
   • Measure carefully to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
   • Ill-fitting garments can reduce effectiveness or cause discomfort.
   • Custom compression garments are great for individuals with unique body shapes or medical needs.
6. Type of Garment: Consider the specific garment based on your condition
   

1. Compression socks and sleeves for legs and arms.
2. Compression gloves for hands and wrists.
3. Compression leggings for full-leg support.
4. Full-body suits for comprehensive coverage.
5. Material and Comfort:
   
   • Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for everyday use.
   • Durable fabrics ensure the garment retains its compression over time.

When to Opt for Custom Compression Garments

• Custom compression garments in Canada can provide a precise fit and optimal comfort if you have a specific medical condition, such as lymphedema or post-surgical swelling.
• Custom solutions are also ideal for those needing garments tailored to irregular body shapes or fluctuating swelling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Choosing the wrong compression level without consulting a healthcare professional.
2. Buying the wrong size by guessing instead of measuring accurately.
3. Using garments made from poor-quality fabrics that lose compression quickly.

Tips for Making the Right Choice

• Seek expert advice to ensure you’re getting the best compression garment for your needs.
• If unsure, start with a mild compression level and gradually adjust based on your doctor’s recommendation.
• Check product reviews for quality and durability, especially for durable medical compression garments.

Choosing the right compression garment is the first step toward improving your health and comfort. 

Innovations in Compression Garments

Advancements in technology and design have transformed compression garments, making them more effective, comfortable, and versatile. These innovations cater to various needs, from medical treatments to enhancing athletic performance and everyday comfort.

Smart Compression Garments

• What They Are:
  
  • Equipped with sensors that track vital health metrics such as blood flow, muscle activity, and oxygen levels.
• How They Help:
  
  • Provide real-time data to monitor recovery progress or manage medical conditions.
  • Ideal for athletes and patients needing constant feedback.
• Example:
  
  • Smart compression garments with health monitoring are used in rehabilitation or sports recovery.

Eco-Friendly Compression Fabrics

• Sustainability:
  
  • Manufacturers are now using environmentally friendly materials that are biodegradable or made from recycled components.
• Benefits:
  
  • Combines durability with a reduced environmental impact.
  • Perfect for consumers looking for eco-friendly compression fabrics that still provide reliable performance.

Ergonomic Designs for Enhanced Comfort

• Improved Fit:
  
  • New designs prioritize natural body movements while maintaining compression.
  • These garments are lightweight, breathable, and more comfortable for long-term wear.
• Flexible Compression Levels:
  
  • Adjustable compression garments allow you to customize pressure based on your condition or activity.

Stylish Compression Garments

• Blending Function with Fashion:
  
  • Modern compression garments come in various colours, patterns, and styles, making them more appealing for everyday use.
  • Popular among individuals who wear compression socks for circulation or compression leggings regularly.

Innovations in Medical Compression Garments

1. Graduated Compression Technology:
   
   • Advances in design ensure consistent pressure in targeted areas for optimal blood flow and fluid drainage.
2. Antimicrobial Fabrics:
   
   • Prevent odours and skin irritation, especially useful for daily or long-term wear.
3. Durable Medical Compression Garments:
   
   • High-quality materials maintain compression levels over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Why These Innovations Matter

These advancements make compression garments more effective and easier to use, whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing a medical condition, or seeking better performance in your daily life.

Caring for Your Compression Garments

Proper care is essential to ensure your compression garments' effectiveness, durability, and comfort. Neglecting their upkeep can reduce their benefits, such as improving blood flow, reducing swelling, and providing support. Here's how to care for them correctly.

Washing Your Compression Garments

1. Hand Wash for Best Results:
   
   • Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
   • Gently rub the fabric without wringing it to avoid stretching.
2. Machine Washing (if allowed by the manufacturer):
   
   • Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag to prevent damage.
   • Use a gentle cycle with cold water, and avoid using fabric softeners or bleach.

Drying Your Compression Garments

• Air Dry Only:
  
  • Lay the garment flat on a clean surface or hang it to dry.
  • Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators, as they can weaken the fabric’s elasticity.
• Do Not Use a Dryer:
  
  • High heat can degrade the compression material, reducing its effectiveness.

Extending Longevity

1. Rotate Your Garments:
   
   • If you wear compression socks and sleeves daily, consider owning multiple pairs to reduce wear and tear on a single item.
2. Store Properly:
   
   • Fold and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their shape and elasticity.
3. Check for Wear and Tear:
   
   • Replace garments that have lost their compression strength or show signs of thinning and fraying.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Compression Garments

• The garment no longer feels tight or supportive.
• The material is stretched out, especially around the edges.
• Visible damage, such as tears or thinning fabric, compromises its performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Hot Water:
  
  • High temperatures can damage the elastic fibres.
• Skipping Regular Cleaning:
  
  • Sweat, oils, and dirt can degrade the fabric if not cleaned frequently.
• Overstretching:
  
  • Pulling the garment excessively when putting it on can weaken its compression properties.

Why Care Matters

Proper care not only prolongs the life of your durable medical compression garments but also ensures they continue to provide the necessary support and benefits for your health.

Why Compression Garments Are the Right Choice for Your Needs

Compression garments are more than just clothing—they can significantly improve your health, support recovery, and enhance your daily comfort. From medical compression garments for conditions like lymphedema to compression socks for circulation during travel, these garments offer versatile solutions tailored to your needs.

Choosing the right compression garment is the first step toward better health and comfort. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, Aurora Compounding Pharmacy is here to help. With expert guidance and custom compression garments in Canada, we ensure you receive the perfect solution tailored to your needs.

‍Contact Aurora Compounding today to learn how compression garments benefit you. Let us help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and health goals.