In-Elastic Compression

Inelastic compression garments compensate for the diminished skin pressure associated with lymphedema, and prevent the re-accumulation of evacuated, stagnating lymph fluid. The more inelastic the bandage is, the greater the potential working pressure (pressure produced when the muscle pump works against the resistance of the bandage, as when exercising). Inelastic garments have advantages over elastic garments because they force a higher working pressure and greater muscle pump efficiency.

The inelastic materials establish a lower compression force when resting therefore increasing the patients comfort. When the patient is standing or moving, the material also provides a higher working pressure to counteract the pressures of gravity and activates the calf-muscle pump. This prevents fluid reflux and maintains the volume of the limb. Inelastic products may be custom made to conform to uniquely shaped limbs and accommodate patient needs. The garments incorporate protective padding while maintaining a compression gradient. They are designed for durability and ease of use to allow patients to lead independent lives.

The primary goal of Inelastic garments is to assist limb reduction and maintenance of reduced limb volume. Because of the inelastic nature of the garments, they provide the forces necessary within tissue spaces and capillaries to ensure that the fluid entering tissue spaces equals the fluid leaving, i.e. normalized lymph flow.