Compression therapy is an essential component for managing lymphoedema, chronic oedema, lipoedema, and venous conditions.
It serves two main purposes: to counteract swelling caused by a build‑up of fluid in the tissues, and to improve blood flow in the veins when weakened valves cause blood to flow backwards and increase venous pressure.
It can also help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, a common symptom in people with lipoedema and venous leg ulcers.
Lymphoedema is a disorder of the lymphatic system where lymph fluid accumulates in the interstitial tissue space, leading to swelling, discomfort, and sometimes impaired mobility. Compression therapy is a cornerstone of lymphoedema management, and chronic oedema management. Compression products apply controlled external pressure to the affected limb, helping to reduce oedema by supporting lymphatic drainage and venous blood return, and limiting further fluid accumulation within the tissues.
By wearing compression products, individuals with lymphoedema may benefit from:
Lipoedema is a chronic condition often misunderstood or mistaken for obesity or lymphoedema. Lipoedema involves the disproportional, symmetrical accumulation of fat, resulting in discomfort and pain in the legs and sometimes arms1. Compression therapy, especially when combined with movement, can provide pain relief and improve quality of life for people with lipoedema.
By wearing compression products, people with lipoedema may benefit from:
Venous conditions can weaken blood flow in the legs, either because vein valves don’t work properly or due to a blockage in the veins, leading to increased venous pressure (venous hypertension).
Medical compression enhances the pumping action of muscles by acting as a counterforce and limiting fluid filtration into the tissues. This improvement in venous return provides numerous benefits for people with venous conditions.
For individuals with venous conditions, wearing compression garments can:
The benefits of compression therapy are not limited to chronic conditions. Medical compression garments can also support circulation and comfort during routine work, pregnancy, and travel.
Long periods of sitting or standing can strain the legs and affect circulation. Medical compression garments help support leg comfort and maintain healthy circulation during these times, especially for people whose work or daily routine involve extended time in one position, such as standing all day or desk-based work.
By applying graduated pressure, they promote blood flow back toward the heart and help reduce heaviness, tiredness, and lower leg discomfort during and after the working day.
During pregnancy, changes in circulation and increased pressure on the veins can lead to swelling, pain and discomfort in the legs and feet. Compression garments can help support blood flow and improve leg comfort throughout pregnancy.
Sitting for a long time while traveling by car, train or plane could lead to a risk of blood clots in the deep veins of the lower legs. This is called deep vein thrombosis. Compression stockings help to prevent the development of deep vein thrombosis by improving the blood flow in your legs. They also help minimise swelling and discomfort during long travels and energize your legs.
JOBST® offers a wide range of compression solutions to suit you and your compression needs. Explore the JOBST product range.
