Understanding the Importance of Compression Garments in Venous Insufficiency and Lymphoedema Management

Compression Stockings

Chronic swelling—whether caused by venous insufficiency or lymphoedema—can have a significant impact on mobility, comfort, and long-term health. While treatment plans vary depending on the underlying cause, one therapy remains central across both conditions: compression garments.

Compression is more than just a supportive stocking. When fitted correctly and used consistently, it is a clinically proven method to improve circulation, reduce swelling, prevent complications, and support tissue healing. For many people, it becomes a lifelong part of self-management and maintaining quality of life.

Why Compression Matters

Compression therapy uses precisely measured levels of pressure to assist the venous and lymphatic systems. By applying graduated compression (firmest at the ankle/wrist and reducing upward), these garments help the body move fluid in the correct direction—towards the heart and lymph nodes.

Key Benefits of Compression Garments

• Reduce swelling (oedema)

• Improve lymphatic drainage and venous return

• Relieve aching, heaviness, and fatigue in limbs

• Prevent progression of chronic venous disease

• Lower risk of cellulitis and infection

• Support healing of venous leg ulcers

• Maintain limb shape following decongestive therapy

  
  

Compression for Venous Insufficiency

What is Venous Insufficiency?

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the valves in the veins do not work effectively, causing blood to pool in the lower legs. Signs may include:

• Swelling around the ankles

• Varicose veins

• Aching or heaviness

• Brown skin discolouration

• Itching, dermatitis, or hardening of the skin

• Venous leg ulcers

  
  

How Compression Helps

Compression stockings are the first-line therapy for CVI. They:

• Reduce venous pressure

• Assist blood flow back to the heart

• Reduce the pooling that causes swelling and skin changes

• Promote healing in venous ulcers

• Help prevent ulcer recurrence

Studies show that people who wear the correct compression have significantly fewer symptoms and better long-term outcomes.

Compression for Lymphoedema

Understanding Lymphoedema

Lymphoedema is a chronic condition where the lymphatic system becomes damaged or overwhelmed, leading to fluid accumulation in the tissues. Causes may include cancer treatment, trauma, venous disease, infection, obesity, or congenital factors.

Role of Compression in Lymphoedema Management

Compression is a cornerstone of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT). Garments help:

• Maintain limb size after manual lymphatic drainage (MLD)

• Prevent fluid from refilling into the tissues

• Support the skin and reduce fibrosis

• Improve comfort and mobility

• Lower the risk of cellulitis

For lymphoedema, flat-knit or custom-made garments are often needed due to changes in limb shape and the need for consistent containment.

Types of Compression Garments

1. Circular Knit (Ready-to-Wear)

• Ideal for venous insufficiency, mild swelling, and everyday use

• Smooth, seamless, flexible fabric

• Great for consistent limb shapes

2. Flat Knit (Custom or Ready-to-Wear)

• Better suited for lymphoedema, complex shapes, or firm/fibrotic tissue

• Offers stronger containment

• Less likely to roll down or cut in

3. Adjustable Compression Wraps

• Useful for fluctuating swelling or during the reduction phase

• Easy to self-apply

• Often used in combination with bandaging or Mobiderm

4. Night-Time Compression

• Helps maintain results 24/7

• Beneficial for moderate to severe lymphoedema

  
  

Why Professional Fitting Matters

Compression only works when:

• The correct class/pressure is prescribed

• The garment fits perfectly

• The material type suits the condition

• It is comfortable enough to wear daily

  
  

Poorly fitted garments can cause pain, skin issues, or reduced effectiveness.

A trained therapist can assess:

• Limb shape and measurements

• Skin condition

• Fibrosis

• Mobility and donning challenges

• Treatment goals

• Funding or reimbursement options (e.g., NDIS, Chronic Wound Consumables Scheme, private health, DVA)

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek assessment if you experience:

• Persistent heavy or swollen legs

• One leg larger than the other

• Skin discolouration or thickening

• A history of cellulitis

• Cancer treatment involving lymph nodes

• Non-healing wounds

Early intervention prevents progression and protects long-term health.

Conclusion

Compression garments are essential tools in managing venous insufficiency and lymphoedema. They improve circulation, reduce swelling, protect the skin, and enhance daily comfort. With a personalised assessment and proper fitting, compression becomes a powerful long-term management strategy that allows you to stay active, reduce complications, and maintain your quality of life.

If you would like help choosing the right garment, or need professional fitting and support, oedema.com.au offers expert guidance backed by over 25 years of experience.