Compression Sleeve help

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NLC
NLC Member Posts: 3
edited June 2014 in Lymphedema

Hello,

I got my compression sleeve for the first time yesterday, and am already having problem.  I couldn't even put it on myself!  When I was at the certified fitter's office yesterday, she was helping me to put it on.  She was pulling the sleeve up my arm.  My arm and hand actually turned red after all the pulling.  (When I was doing some internet search for tips that night, I realized that was not the best way to put on a compression sleeve.)  She sold me a sleeve glider saying it's supposed to help.  When I was using it this morning, the glider did help to slip the sleeve onto my arm, but the glider got stuck to my skin underneath the sleeve!  I think it's because of moisture/sweat on my arm, that plastic glider thing just sticks to my skin.  So I ended up taking off the sleeve and the glider together.  Also the fabric of my compression sleeve seems to be so stiff and thick.  Maybe because it's brand new?  It seems like some people put on their sleeves so effortlessly like putting on pantyhose.  =(

Just wondering if anyone would like to share their experience with compression sleeve.  Any tips on putting it on easier?

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  • Kicks
    Kicks Member Posts: 4,131
    edited April 2014

    I'll try to explain how I put mine on so it makes sense to you.

    First I turn it inside out.  Then I turn about 4"s of the wrist end back inside.  Slide it onto wrist - most of the sleeve will be hanging off of hand.  Then gradually start working it up your arm.  Not 'pulling' but more like just 'rolling' the edge up with slight pressure. Basically it's sliding it up - not pulling.  (I've never used a 'glider' and my garments go on easy for me)

    Garments come in many different materials and in different levels of compression.  The level of compression does make a difference.  I have to use light compression - heavy causes a lot of edema rapidly while light keeps mine under control.  The materials are also different with different ones.  There can also be issues with the fit - some of us do not fit into the 'off the shelf' garments - I don't.  My hand is the biggest problem as my fingers are slightly webbed (never realized it) so OTS gloves caused lots of problems and even with my custom ones, to get them to where they are 'comfy' took some modifications each time new ones were ordered a few times.   Sleeve only took the 2nd order to be ideal.

    Are you actually seeing a CERTIFIED LymphEdema Therapist who is educating you?  Or just someone who is selling you something?


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  • NLC
    NLC Member Posts: 3
    edited April 2014

    Kicks,  Thank you so much for sharing!  I tried it this morning and was finally able to put on my sleeve.  It doesn't look like a really good fitting sleeve or maybe my arm just became swollen up after the measurement?  Anyway I think I will have to go back to the fitter next week.

    The fitter is certified and is actually referred to me by my PT.  I guess not a good one.

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  • Binney4
    Binney4 Member Posts: 8,609
    edited April 2014

    NLC, if it's not a good fit, for goodness sake don't wear it until your therapist sees what's going on. Here's information on the proper fitting of sleeves and gloves:

    http://www.stepup-speakout.org/proper_fitting_of_l...

    Please keep us posted!

    Be well,
    Binney

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