Fit Problems and Skin Issues With Compression

Compression garments depend on a good fit. This article looks at fit problems and skin issues, and at what the published advice leaves open when the fit goes wrong.

The one-line promise about fit and use

my.clevelandclinic.org gives the shortest version: "In many cases, you can avoid problems by making sure your compression therapy garments fit properly and you are using them as prescribed."

Where the sentence strains

The sentence has two conditions. The garment must fit, and you must use it as prescribed. If a garment is hard to put on, rubs, or irritates your skin, the first condition is in doubt. If you stopped wearing it because it was uncomfortable, the second one is.

The sentence also assumes a clear prescription. If swelling is part of the picture, my.clevelandclinic.org has a page on edema: causes, symptoms and treatment.

Setting the advice against your skin and your schedule

First, confirm what was prescribed and for how long. Second, check the fit with the garment on, not only in the box. Third, check the skin where it sits. The MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia has patient instructions on compression stockings to compare against your routine.

The condition behind the garment

Ask your clinician which condition your prescription names. If it is chronic venous insufficiency, my.clevelandclinic.org has a page on chronic venous insufficiency: causes, symptoms and treatment.

The trade-off to bring to your appointment

The trade-off is between the garment the guide describes and the one you can actually wear. Tell the clinician what you stopped doing and why. my.clevelandclinic.org also keeps a general page on compression therapy: types and benefits that you can bring along.