Published on: March 18, 2020

Your First Compression Garment Evaluation

Your doctor or therapist have recommended that you wear compression garments to manage edema in some area of your body. You may be nervous and not know what to expect when arriving at your first compression garment evaluation appointment. This article will help achieve some clarity around the process.

How to Find a Fitter

Although not always required, usually the physician or therapist who recommends you wear compression garments will send you a referral. They will know of a reputable supplier to set you up with for your first appointment. You can also search online and start the process of setting up an appointment by clicking here.

What to Wear

After scheduling your initial evaluation, you might be wondering what to wear. It is highly recommended that you wear loose-fitting clothes. If your lower extremities are affected, it is best to wear shorts or loose-fitting sweatpants which can be easily pulled up above your knees. T-shirts or tank tops are preferred if your upper extremities are affected.

Timelines and Expectations

Depending on what compression garment you’re being measured for, you should expect the compression garment evaluation to last anywhere between 15 minutes to 1 hour. Once the evaluation is complete, chances are that the fitter will want to meet again for a fitting appointment once the garment is ready. The turnaround time for ready to wear garments is typically about 2-3 business days, and 5-7 business days for custom.

Common Questions

You might be unsure of what questions you should be asking your fitter, so below are some frequently asked questions that should be answered somewhere along the process:

  • What garment is right for me?

This answer is different for everyone, your doctor will recommend the level of compression and then there are many garments that fall into the recommended compression levels. Your clinician and fitter will work with you to determine which product will be most effective, at the same time considering what you will be able to use and manage on your own from day-to-day.

  • How long should I wear it?

Again, this answer is different for everyone, and this will certainly be covered in either your evaluation or fitting. Some people need to only wear compression whenever they are active, while others need it 24/7. Your doctor or therapist will be best placed to advise you.

  • How do I wash and take care of it?

A common theme here, this answer is different for everyone. Wash and care are determined by the type of garment you receive, and this will also be covered during the fitting appointment. Here is a guide to wash & care for your compression garments.

  • How long do compression garments last?

For the most part, it is advised that if one set of garments is purchased that they get replaced every 6 months. This will provide the best therapeutic compression possible. There are some nighttime garments, however, that can last up to 1-2 years.

  • What if my garment doesn’t fit?

This question is the main reason it is best to allow a fitting appointment after your initial fitting. The fitter will go over the easiest methods of donning, how it’s supposed to fit, and assess if that garment will, in fact, work for you. If it won’t, the fitter will be able to recommend a different garment, swap out sizes for you, or adjust custom measurements to get the garment remade, as they come with a fit guarantee.

At Absolute Medical, we realize that each patient is different. We strive to provide the right solution to all customers in the most compassionate and efficient way. We enter routine evaluations with confidence and expertise while entering challenges with excitement and desire to innovate. Regardless of what you need, Absolute Medical will certainly find the right solution for you.

 

Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This not a substitute for professional care. Do not use this information for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your physician. All medical products require a physician’s prescription.