Compression Wraps For Lymphedema

BENEFITS OF COMPRESSION WRAPS FOR LYMPHEDEMA

A  recent study of Adjustable Compression Wrap (ACW) garments concluded that compression wraps for lymphedema were not inferior to custom-made flat-knit garments. Compression wrap garments proved advantageous in the maintenance phase of complex decongestive therapy (CDT) for lymphedema. The compression wraps prove easier to don and doff. They also showed a continuation of reduction in the limb, whereas the flat knit stocking did not. Another advantage is the cost of ACW garments, which can be significantly less money than a flat knit garment. Although compression wraps may not be for everyone, they are worth considering. There are several compression wrap garments on the market today, so which wrap is the most suitable for you? Let’s take a look at some of the choices!

FARROW WRAP CLASSIC

Let’s start with the FarrowWrap Classic Leg Piece – one of my favorite wrap garments. One of Dr. Farrow’s patients, who happened to be a seamstress, helped him come up with this original FarrowWrap product. FarrowWrap Classic utilizes unique fabrics with smart elastic short stretch bands of multi-layered materials. The optimal width of the band, with a 50% overlap, gives a similar effect to bandaging. This garment is designed for moderate to severe edema control. The FarrowWrap Classic comes with a pair of liners that have silver incorporated in them to help fight bacteria. However, this garment does not address compression for the foot. If you experience swelling in the foot, you must purchase a separate garment. FarrowWrap Classic Foot Piece or a Farrow Hybrid stocking are two good options.

L&R SOLARIS READY WRAP

The L&R Solaris ReadyWrap is another wrap garment with a 50% overlap, which mimics the gold standard of bandaging to ensure complete coverage. Simple to don and doff with a color-coded strapping system, the ReadyWrap provides higher working and lower resting compression levels with the low-stretch material. This garment also comes with a liner but no foot option compression. Instead, try the ReadyWrap Foot Piece or the Medi Undersock to address swelling in the foot.

JUZO COMPRESSION WRAP

The Juzo Compression Wrap now comes in two styles, one with a slip-on feature and one without. The slip-on feature makes it easier to don and doff, holding the garment in place while you adjust the straps. The Juzo Compression Wrap without the slip-on part makes it easier for those with trouble bending over to reach their feet.

Both garments are reversible and have replaceable velcro tabs. This garment does not have as much overlap as the FarrowWrap Classic or The ReadyWrap. Therefore it would not be used for more severe lymphedema cases. However, this garment is excellent for mild to moderate lymphedema and wound care. The velcro and the area to which the velcro attaches are the first thing to wear out on these garments. However, with the garment being reversible and having replaceable velcro, you should get twice the life out of this garment compared to similar wraps. Additionally, you can get this wrap with full foot liners or compression anklets to address foot swelling.

CIRCAID JUXTAFIT PREMIUM

The CircAid Juxtafit Premium has a full one-year warranty, twice that of any other wrap garment warranty on the market. Some customers get two to three years of use out of their Juxtafit Premium garments. Although it is more expensive than some other garments, its durability makes the CircAid Juxtafit Premium a great value. This garment comes with a pair of silver liners to help fight bacteria that would cause infection. It also has an anklet and a PAC (Power Added Compression) Band for foot compression. In addition, the Juxtafit Premium comes with a cover to protect the garment and also to make it easier to get clothing on and off over the garment.

SIGVARIS COMPREFLEX

This garment is a company favorite! It is the easiest of garments to don and doff with an internal liner that holds the garment in place while you adjust the straps. It is also one of the most cost-effective garments. The Sigvaris CompreFlex comes with either a pair of transitional stockings, which only have compression in the foot and ankle, or a complete liner with mild compression throughout the sock. It is more of a lightweight garment and may not work well for more severe cases of lymphedema. This is our go-to garment for older adults who may have trouble getting more complex garments on and off.

COMPRESSION WRAPS FOR LYMPHEDEMA ARE WORTH LOOKING INTO!

Although compression wraps for lymphedema may not be for everyone, they are an option worth considering. They work exceptionally well for lymphedema patients, as there are often fluctuations in the leg size that the Velcro wrap can accommodate. Compression wrap garments can also be worn as daytime and nighttime garments. At the same time, gradient compression stockings are only worn during the day. Even if you prefer compression stockings, having a wrap garment on hand is nice if you have a flare-up and want some reduction. Compression wrap garments all work on the same principle. If you need help deciding which wrap suits you, consult your lymphedema therapists or contact us at The Compression Closet. We are always happy to answer your questions about the garments we sell.

(Note compression wraps are not a replacement for CDT)

Disclaimer – This blog is for general information purposes only. Furthermore, the information in this blog is not a substitute for medical advice – always consult a licensed healthcare professional

for advice on your specific condition.