Readymade or Custom Compression Garments

Compression gear in general is intended to benefit patients in ways best suited to them. But the right type of compression wear is what determines effectiveness as there are many factors to consider before buying. Typically, your primary caregiver guides patients as per his/her medical advice regarding their lymphedema treatment; however, they are presented with choices between a ready-made class of compression or a custom-made compression. The three primary factors to take into account when choosing the right one are: compression, compliance and cost.

Custom compression sleeves tend to cost more as they feature extra or specifically designed benefits. This doesn’t mean custom-made sleeves have an edge over regular or ready-made ones. The superiority of any compression sleeve only lies in how it suits the needs of its respective patient. Ultimately, a patient’s condition best determines the right kind of compression gear for him/her.

Compression Intensity

Compression garments for lymphedema are classified into four different classes, which represent the intensity of compression that the stocking provides. The four classes are:

• Class I: provides the lowest compression level, and is typically used for patients with mild lymphedema or those at risk of developing lymphedema.
• Class II: provides a moderate compression level, and is typically used for patients with moderate lymphedema or those who have had some improvement with Class I compression.
• Class III: provides a high compression level, and is typically used for patients with severe lymphedema or those who have had some improvement with Class II.
• Class IV: the highest compression level and typically used for patients with severe lymphedema or for those who have had some improvement with Class III.

It is important the compression level should be tailored to the individual’s needs. A higher compression class may not be suitable for everyone.

What is the Right Compression Class?

The right compression class vary and there is no fixed or assigned compression class as each condition may require different pressures with other factors also being considered. The venous or lymphatic vessel system can undergo many problems and it is best that a thorough diagnosis determines which compression class is best for the person.

Class ratings for compression sleeves are not FDA-regulated. This means that there is no authorized opinion on compression class ratings. Class ratings, however, are provided to offer guidance regarding how pressure is generated and exerted in areas where needed. As a rule of thumb, maximum pressure is always intended to be farthest from the heart, whereas minimum pressure is exerted closest to the heart. This is why arm compression sleeves concentrate more pressure around the wrist and release it gradually as the sleeve moves up the arm. The circular motion of the sleeves enables more blood circulation to be drawn upwards near the heart for it to be recirculated.

The sizing of the compression is a vital component as it determines the right amount of compression. The length and width of the limb are considered when manufacturing a compression sleeve with the right compression gradient.

Ready-made compression sleeves usually follow a standard sizing chart, but it’s important to have the sleeve fitted by a certified fitter to ensure the best fit and comfort. A Certified Fitter will take into account the patient’s limb measurements and use them to select the appropriate size and compression class. This ensures that the blood flow is not restricted in any way and the sleeve is providing the right amount of compression

Readymade or Custom Compression Garment Cost

When it comes to choosing between a custom-made compression sleeve and a ready-made one, cost can be important. Custom-made lymphedema compression garments cost significantly more than ready-made ones. Since a sleeve is likely to be replaced every six months, the expense from custom-made sleeves can be overwhelming. This makes ready-made compression sleeves a deciding factor.

However, custom compression sleeves have several advantages over ready-made sleeves:

• Perfect Fit: Custom-made compression sleeves are made to measure, taking into account the unique shape and size of the patient’s limb. This ensures a perfect fit and maximum comfort, which is particularly important for patients with asymmetric lymphedema or those with unique limb shapes.
• Increased Effectiveness: A custom-made compression sleeve is designed to provide the specific level of compression required by the patient’s condition. This helps to ensure that the sleeve is providing the appropriate level of compression to effectively reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Better Durability: Custom-made compression sleeves are made with higher-quality materials and are often more durable than ready-made sleeves. This can help to ensure that the sleeve lasts longer and is able to provide the required compression for a longer period of time.
• Increased Patient Compliance: A custom-made compression sleeve that fits well and is comfortable to wear is more likely to be used regularly by the patient. This increased compliance leads to better outcomes and faster recovery.
• Tailored to Patient’s needs: Custom-made compression sleeves are tailored to the patient’s specific needs, taking into account any additional medical conditions or complications that the patient may have. This helps to ensure that the sleeve is providing the appropriate level of compression to effectively reduce swelling and improve circulation.

Although custom compression sleeves are often more expensive than ready-made sleeves, it’s worth the investment to ensure that the patient’s needs are met and the outcome is better.