Wearing Compression Garments

How compression garments are put on will vary with garment anatomy, but there is one golden rule: never ‘pull’ the garment on.

Work the garment gently up the leg, arm and/or body until it is fully in position. Pulling the garment stresses the fabric, resulting in loss of compression and shape. Also, be careful that long fingernails do not puncture, fray or stress the fabric.

If there is a fastener, fully undo the clips or zip and clips before putting the garment on. With a clip fastener, start at the bottom and work upwards, adjusting the clip setting to achieve a firm fit. With a zip and clip fastener, do the clips up from bottom to top and then gently pull up the zip. When doing up fasteners, ensure that the strip of fabric underneath is flat to prevent the fastener or the material from marking the skin.

If there are shoulder straps, these are typically openable and adjustable. Open the straps for ease of putting on and managing post-operative drain lines. Tighten or loosen the straps to suit torso length and change in swelling. If needed an extender can be fitted into the clip fastening to increase adjustment.

If the garment has a closed crotch, underwear is worn under the garment and the garment is taken off when toileting. If the garment has an open crotch, underwear can be worn over the garment and the garment worn whilst toileting – but care is needed. Ensure the crotch opening is centred on the body to reduce the risk of soiling. If the garment has a closable crotch flap, it can be undone and the garment rolled up over the hips whilst toileting.

As swelling reduces, a clip fastening garment may have sufficient adjustment to retain a firm fit. For zip or no fastener garments, a smaller garment may be needed to retain firm and even pressure. As mobility improves, this can be an opportunity to change to a garment that is more comfortable and discreet under clothing.

Links & Information

FITTING ROOM Information   Go to caring for compression garments for more information.