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Lymphedema Care 

Popular Compression Garments and Devices:
Comparing Your Options

Compression therapy is not “one size fits all.” Even within each category—flat-knit, circular-knit, wraps, or pumps—there are different styles, fabrics, and technologies that make a big difference in comfort and effectiveness.

 

Here’s a closer look at popular options, what sets them apart, and how to know what might work best for you.

1. Flat-Knit Garments:

Character:

  • Made with thicker yarn, cut-and-sewn with seams.

  • Provide firm containment (strong resistance to swelling pushing out).

  • Usually custom-made, so they match irregular limb shapes.

  • More durable than circular-knit, but thicker and less cosmetic (International Lymphedema Framework [ILF], 2020; Reich-Schupke, 2019).

Differences within Flat-Knit:

  • JOBST & Medi → very firm, long-lasting, less stretch = best for severe cases.

  • Sigvaris & Juzo → softer feel, more comfort, may be preferred for sensitive skin or active patients.

  • Tribute® → unique foam features, better for fibrotic tissue.

 

Best fit: Moderate–severe lymphedema, irregular limb shape, or post-surgical contours.

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2. Circular-Knit Garments:

Character:

  • Knitted in a seamless tube; thinner and more elastic.

  • Stretchy, breathable, and more cosmetic (look like normal hosiery).

  • Not as effective for severe swelling or irregular shapes (ILF, 2020).

 

Differences within Circular-Knit:

  • JOBST Bella & Juzo Soft → thinnest, most cosmetic.

  • Medi Mediven Plus & Juzo Dynamic → more durable, stronger hold.

  • Sigvaris Comfort → best for sensitive skin.

  • CEP & Therafirm → lifestyle/sports focus.

 

Best fit: Mild or early lymphedema, venous disease, athletes, or patients prioritizing appearance and comfort.

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3. Adjustable Compression Wraps (Velcro-Type):

Character:

  • Wide bands with Velcro closures.

  • Quick to adjust throughout the day.

  • Easier for those with hand weakness or fluctuating swelling.

  • Bulkier under clothing than knit garments (Reisshauer, 2025).

 

Differences within Wraps:

  • Juxtafit → precise adjustments.

  • FarrowWrap → strong containment, multiple versions.

  • Compreflex & ReadyWrap → easiest for self-management.

  • Juzo Wrap → softer, good for sensitive patients.

 

Best fit: Fluctuating swelling, limited hand strength, self-care at home, or during intensive reduction phases.

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4. Nighttime Garments:

Character:

  • Quilted, foam-lined, padded structures.

  • Provide gentle, sustained compression overnight.

  • Encourage lymph movement by micro-massaging tissue.

  • More comfortable than daytime garments for sleep (McNeely, 2022).

 

Differences within Night Garments:

  • JOBST Relax & Medi Mondi → easier pre-made options.

  • Sigvaris Transition → hybrid, budget-friendly.

  • TributeNight & JoviPak → customized, best for fibrosis.

 

Best fit: Patients who need 24-hour compression, especially with fibrosis or stubborn swelling.

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5. Pneumatic vs. Non-Pneumatic Compression Devices:

Character:

  • Devices that provide compression by squeezing the limb in cycles.

  • Two main types: pneumatic (air-inflated chambers) and non-pneumatic (mechanical tension systems).

  • Always used as adjuncts to garments, not replacements (Lerman, 2019; Ridner, 2020; Rockson, 2022).

 

Pneumatic Devices (IPC/APCDs)

  • Inflating sleeves with air in programmed sequences.

  • Basic pumps give uniform pressure; advanced pumps give adjustable segmental compression.

  • Examples:

    • Basic: Bio Compression Systems®, Lympha Press® Mini Press.

    • Advanced: Flexitouch Plus® (Tactile Medical), Lympha Press Optimal Plus®, Entre® by Tactile Medical.

 

Non-Pneumatic Active Compression Devices (NPACDs)

  • Provide compression without air, using mechanical tension or powered strapping.

  • Lightweight, wearable, allow mobility during treatment.

  • Examples:

    • Dayspring® (Koya Medical) – Portable, battery-powered.

    • NanoviCare® prototypes (Europe) – Early mechanical models.

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6. Donning & Doffing Aids:

Character:

  • Tools to help apply or remove compression garments.

  • Essential for high-compression classes or patients with arthritis/hand weakness (Zuther & Norton, 2018).

 

Differences:

  • Butler/frames → best for lower limb garments.

  • Gloves & sliders → best for arms and delicate fabrics.

  • Juzo Slippie Gator → good for mobility-limited patients.

 

Best fit: Anyone struggling with applying garments, especially with high compression or limited hand mobility.

Screenshot 2025-08-28 at 9.13.20 AM.png

Key Takeaway:

Each brand and model within a category has its own character:

  • Flat-knit: best containment, custom options, different levels of stiffness and comfort.

  • Circular-knit: cosmetic, softer, easier for mild cases.

  • Wraps: adjustable, easier to self-manage, bulkier.

  • Night garments: comfortable for 24-hour care, especially fibrosis.

  • Pneumatic & non-pneumatic devices: valuable adjuncts, with pneumatic pumps best for advanced cases and non-pneumatic options offering mobility.

  • Aids: make life easier and improve adherence.

 

Most patients benefit from a mix (e.g., flat-knit in daytime + night garment for sleep, plus pump for flare-ups).

Scientific References:

  • International Lymphedema Framework (ILF). (2020). Best Practice for the Management of Lymphoedema. Wounds International.

  • Reich-Schupke, S. (2019). Differences between flat-knit and circular-knit compression stockings. Phlebology, 34(1), 36–44.

  • Reisshauer, A. (2025). Adjustable compression wraps: Clinical efficacy compared to multilayer bandaging. Journal of Lymphology, 58(2), 45–53.

  • McNeely, M. L., et al. (2022). Nighttime compression therapy for breast cancer-related lymphedema. Supportive Care in Cancer, 30(7), 6001–6010.

  • Lerman, M., et al. (2019). Advanced pneumatic compression devices in lymphedema management. Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders, 7(6), 829–838.

  • Ridner, S. H., et al. (2020). Pneumatic compression for lymphedema: Clinical outcomes. Cancer, 126(2), 435–445.

  • Rockson, S. G., et al. (2022). Non-pneumatic active compression treatment for lymphedema: Early clinical trial outcomes. Journal of Lymphatic Research, 56(4), 210–219.

  • Zuther, J. E., & Norton, S. (2018). Lymphedema Management: The Comprehensive Guide for Practitioners. Thieme.

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