Compression garments: How tight is too tight?

Compression garments: How tight is too tight?

Sometimes patients think that the garment should be as tight as possible. But that is not true. The goal is to support your body without putting excess pressure on the area that is healing.

Gentle pressure is good. However, you do not want it to be so tight that your limbs are falling asleep!

Circulation is important to recovery. Ideally, it should fit snugly and comfortably. A good rule of thumb is that you should just be able to slide your hand under it without strain.

Wearing a binder or compression garment too tight can also cause it to roll down. The garment should lay smooth and flat across your skin. Doing so will prevent problems with healing, such as undesirable fluid collection.

If you are not sure if your compression garment is too tight or loose, speak to your surgeon. They may suggest adjusting the tightness. Wearing a compression garment too tight can cause more harm than good.Â