Medical Grade vs Over the Counter (OTC)
The biggest difference between medical grade vs over the counter (OTC) is the amount of pressure that a garment provides.
- Medical grade compression are devices prescribed by a health care provider used to improve the quality of life for a patient suffering from specific types of diseases that cause swelling in the arms, legs and/or abdomen such as; diabetes, varicose veins, lymphedema, deep vein thrombosis and post-surgery needs. Medical grade compression is made of high quality, durable, and breathable material such as nylon and elastic and is approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain medical diagnosis and can be submitted to most insurances.
- Medical grade compression must be prescribed by a doctor as the amount of pressure being administered must be monitored by a healthcare provider and should always be fitted by a Certified Compression Fitter.
- Over the Counter (OTC) compression does not have to be prescribed by a medical professional and can be bought at most department or drug stores. It is not covered by insurance and can aid in helping with mild swelling, aches, and pains.
Lymphedema Compression Garments
Lymphedema is a serious medical condition that can result after the surgical removal of lymph nodes. It oftentimes follows breast cancer surgery or radiation therapy. Symptoms include a feeling of heaviness, or aches and swelling of the arm, hand, breast, chest or back. If you’ve been diagnosed with lymphedema, your doctor has probably prescribed a lymphedema compression sleeve, glove, or compression bra or vest. Your lymphedema garment must be the right size, type and fit to reduce swelling and discomfort. Brownfield’s certified compression garment fitters can measure and fit compression arm sleeves, compression gauntlets, compression gloves or compression bras and lymphedema compression night garments.
What to expect at your compression fitting appointments:
Our Certified Compression Fitter will:
- Review any medical history pertinent to your compression item
- Check the skin condition where the garment will need to be fit and worn
- Measure the affected area to determine garment size and level of compression needed
- Once we have your items most patients will come back for another fitting appointment where our certified compression fitter will show you how to properly don and doff your items and what materials you may need to do so at home.
