Wearing Compression and Feeling Confident

We know living with long-term conditions, such as lymphoedema and lipoedema, which require consistent compression therapy all year round, can be challenging and, at times, down-right difficult. 

Physically, compression can be tricky (and tight!) to pull on and remove, particularly a problem for those with limited dexterity in their hands and wrists. A compression donning aid can help and there are lots of different types to try out to find one that works for you.

However, wearing compression on a daily basis can also affect your mental health significantly, impacting on your body image and confidence levels. If you are finding wearing compression therapy is challenging your emotional health, read on for some helpful tips to try and maintain a positive body image and feel confident being you!

  

Tips for Wearing your Compression and Feeling Positive

Choose the right garment

  • Ensure your compression garments are properly fitted by a professional, if at all possible. An ill-fitting garment can be uncomfortable and may not provide the necessary benefits. If you have to self-measure, ensure you use the compression brand's measurement chart to measure all parts of your limb(s) correctly and ask a friend to help you if you're finding measuring yourself difficult.
  • Invest in high-quality medical grade compression garments made from quality, comfortable materials.
  • Choose compression in colours and styles that make you feel good to wear. Some compression brands offer more stylish options that can look like regular clothing, check out the Juzo range!

Develop your own daily routine 

  • Take care of your skin by moisturising regularly. This can help prevent skin irritation when wearing your compression.
  • Develop your own best technique for putting on and taking off your compression to make the process smoother and less stressful for yourself. Practice when you are at home, relaxed and have no time pressure to get out of the door! Acompression donning aid can help also.
  • Try integrating wearing your compression garment into your daily routine to make it feel more natural and less of a burden.
  • If you can, incorporate your compression garment into your wardrobe. You could pair your compression with clothes you love that make you feel good. Your compression then becomes a seamless part of your whole outfit.
  • Layering works! Use your compression as a base layer and wear your favourite feel-good clothes over the top. You will hopefully feel more stylish and comfortable.

​Mental health support

  • ​Learn about the benefits of wearing your compression garment(s). Knowing that compression therapy helps with your health condition can make it easier to embrace.
  • Use positive affirmations to reinforce a positive body image. Remind yourself that your compression is part of your health routine and does not define your self-worth.
  • Focus on strength - think of your compression as something that helps you to stay strong and healthy. This can help to shift your mental focus from appearance to functionality.
  • Practice mindfulness and mediation, if you find this helpful to you. It can help you to focus your thoughts, stay present, reduce anxiety and any negative thoughts about your body.
  • If body image issues persist, consider speaking with a professional therapist who can help you work through these negative feelings.
  • Look up inspiring stories on the web of others who have embraced wearing compression garments and maintaining a positive body image. Seeing how others manage their health condition can  be really helpful and reduce feelings of isolation.
  • Join a local support group or online community where you can share experiences and receive advice from others who are living with the same medical condition as you and also wear compression garments on a daily basis. Facebook groups are a fabulous source of support for many - check out Lymphoedema Sufferers UK - Support Group or Lipoedema Information UK, you are not alone.
  • Don't be afraid to talk to family and friends about your feelings. Open communication with your loved ones can really help and their ongoing support should help you to feel more confident and less isolated.

​Image of lady walking her dog wearing a compression stocking on one leg.

Image provided by patient. Used with their consent. Not to be reproduced.

Further information & support

If you are struggling to cope physically or mentally with your symptoms or to wear your compression therapy, please do seek further support. You are not alone.

Contact your GP or specialist nurse for more advice and to make alterations to your prescription, if possible.

Speak to your family and friends, open communication with loved ones can really help you to feel more positive and less isolated.

Seek support for your health condition, either via a local group (if there is one) or through online communities. Sharing your experiences and seeking advice can really help you to feel supported. Try searching Facebook groups for relevant online communities and contact the Lymphoedema Support Network or Lipoedema UK for details of local in-person support groups.

If body image issues persist, please do consider speaking to a professional therapist, either in person or online, to help you work through your feelings.

For further support, please contact the Lymphoedema Support Network or Lipoedema UK. Both charities offer lots of help and advice about managing these long-term conditions and operate a helpline. 


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