Lymphedema Arm Sleeve: What You Need to Know Before Buying
If you have arm lymphedema, your doctor may recommend compression therapy to help reduce fluid from collecting in your upper extremities. Before you buy a special sleeve for your lymphedema, here are some of the most common questions users often have about these compressive garments.
How They Work
With compressive therapy, your arm is covered in several layers of gauze, bandages, or other fabric, and then topped off with a lymphedema arm sleeve. The sleeve is made of a tightly woven mesh fabric that supports and protects the lymph network in your arm. The fibers of the sleeve press on the blood vessels and lymph network, making it easier for your body to eliminate extra fluid
Types
A lymphedema arm sleeve varies by the level of compression it provides and the fabric used to construct the sleeve. People with mild to moderate lymphedema may require sleeves in the 20-30 mmHg range. Mmhg stands for millimeter of mercury, a unit of measuring pressure. When it comes to compression garments, mmHg refers to how tightly the elastic medical compression stockings support the veins in the arm. The higher the mmHg number, the more firmly the sleeve will squeeze the patient’s arm. People with more severe lymphedema may need arm lymphedema sleeves in the 30 to 40mmHg or greater range. A doctor, nurse, or therapist can recommend the level of compression that is best for your situation.
These sleeves are constructed from a variety of fabrics. Nylon sleeves, available in lower compression levels, are easier to put on and provide sleek support under clothes. They’re less noticeable, so many people with lymphedema choose them.
A silk sleeve is another common type of sleeve. These sleeves are known for their durability and breathability. Although most lymphedema sleeves require replacement after six months or so because the fibers stop supporting the lymph network properly, silk arm sleeves are less likely to stretch and may last a year or more.
People with more severe cases of lymphedema or who want a more comfortable sleeve may also choose microfiber sleeves. These sleeves are available in a variety of colors, are easier to wash, and users report that they’re much more comfortable.
Brands
Some popular lymphedema arm sleeve brands and styles are:
LympheDiva 20-30 mmHg (available in White, Black, and Fuschia):
A user from Maryland writes: “If you have to wear a compression sleeve, you might as well do it in style. The ladies that own and run this company have come up with a fashionable way to handle the lymphedema that comes as a result of surgery, especially surgery related to breast cancer. Women who feel vulnerable can take special pride in wearing these sleeves. They are colorful, bold, and ask for passerbys to comment upon. Go for it ladies!”
Juzo Arm Lymphedema Sleeve (30-40mmHg):
Here’s what one user says about this sleeve: “I just went to a tighter sleeve and was worried that it would be really hard to get on. It is harder than the looser one, but goes on easily with a donning glove. It’s controlling my lymphedema better too. I really like the silicone band–it doesn’t fall down!”
Juzo Arm Lymphedema Sleeve 20-30 mmHg
A user writes: “Very comfortable. The length is just right. much better than other products I’ve purchased elsewhere in the past.”
Where to Buy
You can find lymphedema products and armsleeves at your local medical supply store or online, both through popular websites like Amazon and online medical suppliers. Make sure that when you purchase a sleeve you’re getting the compression level (in mmHg) that your doctor recommends for you. He or she may even provide you with a specific prescription and brand that would work best for your situation.