Compression Garments

Compression garments are stretchy, elasticized garments used to control pain and swelling caused by a back-up of lymph fluid (lymphedema) following a cancer treatment. The garments put pressure on a swollen area and help to move the fluid out. They are most frequently worn on the arms and legs.

Compression garments are available in different grades of pressure and fabrics and are generally prescribed as part of a lymphedema prevention or management program. It’s important to be fitted by someone experienced in selecting, measuring and fitting compression garments.

At Cooper Cancer Institute, our physicians offer world class cancer care and have extensive experience with the use of compression garments for the prevention and management of lymphedema.

Understanding the treatment

Compressions garments are available at medical supply stores but need to be custom fitted. It is important to be properly measured and fitted.

Indications for treatment

Compression garments are typically worn by individuals in the prevention or management of lymphedema related to their cancer treatment.