Compression Wraps and Bandages for Lymphedema

Low-stretch compression wraps and bandages can reduce swelling caused by lymphedema by putting firm, even pressure on affected areas. The pressure helps accumulated lymph fluid to flow again. 

Lymphedema specialists tend to use lymphedema wraps and bandages as part of complete decongestive therapy (CDT) — an intensive treatment plan that combines various lymphedema treatments to improve symptoms. You usually have to wear lymphedema wraps and bandages every day for a few weeks during CDT. 

Your lymphedema specialist wraps multiple layers of lymphedema bandages around the affected area, creating a soft cast. Lymphedema bandaging is considered a reductive therapy, which means it reduces the affected area’s volume, and so makes it smaller. The multi-layer soft cast holds in your muscles every time you use the affected area to create what is known as working pressure. 

When someone with a bandaged arm uses it during routine activities or prescribed exercises, working pressure creates an internal pumping action that moves lymph out of the tissues and into the lymphatic vessels. The soft cast created with the lymphedema bandages helps to prevent lymph from flowing back into the limb, and it softens the tissue under the skin. 

Bandaging is especially ideal for people who have moderate to severe swelling or soft tissue changes.

Lymphedema bandaging should be done in a very specific way by your doctor or specialist. The technique won’t improve lymphedema symptoms if the compression wraps or bandages are applying uneven pressure on the affected area. If the wraps and bandages are too tight or uneven, it might even increase swelling.

Ideally, your lymphedema specialist would be the one bandaging you up every time. But if you are unable to have daily appointments and need to change your bandages yourself, it’s important you learn the correct technique. Ask your specialist for written instructions and to recommend visual aides, such as an instructional video, that you can follow as a guide.

Sometimes, lymphedema specialists place foam pads or chip bags on the affected area and use lymphedema wraps and bandages to keep these in place. If you need a compression bandage for lymphedema of the arm, you may notice there are usually more layers at the bottom of the arm and fewer layers at the top. This type of wrapping creates graded pressure that helps lymph flow up and out of the arm.

Lymphedema wraps and bandages should feel snug but not tight. If you feel pain, discomfort, numbness, or tingling, let your lymphedema specialist know right away. You may have to remove the bandages and put on a compression garment instead.

The following tips can help you keep wraps and bandages in good shape:

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  cover the bandaged area to keep it dry when you shower or have a bath 

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  wash and dry your lymphedema bandages as often as directed or needed

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  wear loose clothing over bulky bandages for comfort

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  move as you usually do; movement helps the lymphedema bandages move the fluid out of the swollen area.

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  do your prescribed exercises twice a day or as often as instructed

A lymphedema elastic bandage doesn’t stretch as much as regular bandages you might use to wrap up a sprained wrist or ankle. Ask your doctor or lymphedema specialist which types of bandages you can get and to recommend a medical supply store. You also might be able to get your bandaging supplies from your lymphedema specialist. If possible, try to get two sets of bandages so you can alternate between washings.

It's worth checking to see if your insurance will cover the cost of your wraps, bandages, and other lymphedema-related supplies. If you have a prescription for those items from a health care provider, they might be covered. The Lymphedema Treatment Act went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024 and expanded coverage of lymphedema treatment items for people with Medicare Part B. Other health insurance plans are likely to be expanding their coverage as well.

Daily bandaging can take a great deal of time and effort. If your bandaging regimen is challenging, ask your lymphedema specialist whether you can adjust your treatment plan to better fit your needs.