DR. ARTHRITIS ANSWERS: THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT COMPRESSION THERAPY

It’s easy to chalk something up as a fad when you don’t understand how it actually works. So we thought we’d take the time to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about compression therapy and products.

Let’s start with the basics…

What is compression therapy?

Compression therapy refers to benefits gained from using specialized sleeves or garments to manage chronic aches and pain or discomfort.

Perhaps the most important effect that compression provides is the delivery of managed and gentle pressure on joints. These work to improve blood flow through the affected area and additionally reduce swelling or pain.

Who will benefit from wearing compression garments?

We recommend that you first consult with your physician before you start using compression sleeves. But generally, compression therapy is especially useful for managing tired and aching joints and limbs, swelling, varicose veins, post-thrombotic syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, or lymphedema. Athletes have also been known to use compression garments as a way to improve performance and minimize production of lactic acid.

Apart from these, are there other uses for compression garments?

It’s common for frequent travelers and people recovering from injuries to use them.

Increased elevation, combined with cabin pressure, and hours of inactivity can lead to swelling of joints that lead to a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). To manage this, compression garments help in making sure that blood flows as efficiently as possible despite the conditions.

In terms of injury recovery, the compression sleeve’s ability to help increase blood flow aids the healing process by improving circulation in the injured area.

How long should I wear them?

That depends entirely on you. Some prefer to wear them during the day, while others prefer wearing them at night. Usually, people will try them out first and see what works best for them.  It may also depend on the specific reason you are wearing your compression product for.

Do I need to get a prescription before using compression garments?

There are ready-to-wear, off-the-shelf compression sleeves available that won’t require a prescription, which can be used to help alleviate pain and discomfort.

However, it’s important that you seek the advise of your physician if you plan on using compression 20 mmHg or higher.

Can I wear compression garments regardless of weather conditions?

You can wear compression garments regardless of the weather. However, in warmer climates, some people develop rashes—although this isn’t true in all cases. This is usually caused by the moisture that gets trapped between the sleeve and the skin. Copper infused compression sleeves help with this, thanks to copper’s anti-microbial properties.

In cold weather, which is when aches and pains are more likely, the sleeves help circulation and improve your condition as well as help you feel warmer.

When choosing a sleeve, be sure to consider what you intend to use it for. Again, nothing can replace an informed medical diagnosis from a trusted physician, but being aware and mindful of your condition and options means you can manage your condition better.

For compression sleeve options, visit https://www.doctorarthritis.org.

Dr. Arthritis is a trusted brand known for their line of compression sleeves anchored on the founders’ experience and insight as medical practitioners. The brand’s collection are made using a high quality blend of 88 percent copper nylon with 12 percent spandex—making it one of the products with the highest copper content available, and ensuring all-day comfort.

Dr. Arthritis’ main mission is to improve the lives of people who suffer from joint and muscle pain—regardless if it’s because they suffer from conditions like arthritis or are recovering from an injury.

If you have any other questions, feel free to leave your queries in the comment section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.