Compression Therapy & Short-Stretch Bandaging
Helping reduce swelling, protect and improve tissues, and improve comfort for patients with lymphedema.
What is Compression Therapy?
Compression therapy the gold standard treatment for lymphedema. Also, the cornerstone for complete decongestion therapy (CDT).
If CDT (Phase I) is warranted for your lymphedema, special short-stretch bandages are applied in multiple layers to gently but firmly support the limb.
These bandages create a gradient pressure that:
- Moves fluid out of swollen tissues
- Prevents fluid from refilling the area
- Helps soften the tissue hardening
- Improves mobility and comfort
Because this method requires specialized training, compression bandaging should only be performed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist (CLT).
How Short-Stretch Bandaging Works
- Skin care is performed before putting on bandages.
- A Special stockinette is applied over the skin for protection and comfort.
- Padding is applied to protect the skin and helps hold bandaging in place.
- Multiple layers of short-stretch bandages are wrapped from the toes or fingers upward. The amount of pressure and number of bandages applied is why an experienced CLT is very important!
- Gentle, sustained compression supports the lymphatic system in draining fluid over a period of 24-48 hours of wearing the bandaging.
- Exercises are given to help with decongestion while wearing the bandaging.
- Once the swelling is reduced, patients transition to Phase II (maintenance) using compression garments for long-term management.
Why Compression Matters
Without proper compression, swelling can return and put patients at risk for complications such as skin changes, infections, and impaired mobility. Compression therapy is not just about reducing swelling—it’s about protecting long-term health and independence.
Learn More
Want to dive deeper? Here are some trusted resources:
- National Lymphedema Network – Position Paper on Compression Therapy
- American Cancer Society – Lymphedema: What You Need to Know
- NIH – Lymphedema Treatment and Management
How We Can Help
Our Certified Lymphedema Specialists provide expert compression bandaging as part of a complete treatment plan.
We’ll guide you step by step—through intensive treatment and into long-term maintenance—so you can feel confident and supported in your care.
Also….. We supply the needed materials so you can get the help you need!
Frequently Asked Questions about Compression Therapy
Does compression wrapping hurt?
No. Compression bandaging should feel snug but not painful. If wraps ever feel too tight, cause numbness, or create new pain, let your physical therapist know right away so adjustments can be made. If you are at home and the bandaging starts to hurt, remove them and alert the clinic in the morning.
How long do I have to wear the bandages?
During the intensive (Phase I) stage of treatment, bandages are usually worn all day and overnight. During CDT (phase I), we usually set up appointments either daily or every other day to help fully reduce the limb. Once the swelling is reduced, you’ll transition to Phase II, where you’ll use compression garments for daily maintenance.
Can I shower with compression wraps on?
No. Compression wraps need to stay dry. If the wraps get wet or soiled, they need to be removed. There are “cast covers” that can fit over the wraps to keep them dry during showering.
Will I always need compression therapy?
Most patients do not need daily wrapping forever. Once swelling is managed, compression garments are typically used long-term to maintain results. Bandaging may only be needed again if swelling increases.
Can I learn to do compression wrapping myself?
Yes. While wrapping should first be performed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, many patients (or caregivers) can be trained to safely reapply wraps at home for ongoing care.
What’s the difference between short-stretch bandages and regular ACE bandages?
ACE bandages are elastic and can actually restrict circulation if wrapped tightly. Short-stretch bandages are designed specifically for lymphedema treatment, providing safe, controlled compression that supports fluid movement.