A Therapeutic Challenge: Applying Compression to the Axillary Region
Lymphedema is a dynamic condition, changing with weather, activity, fluctuations in weight, and even hormonal shifts. There are a number of “tricks” lymphedema therapists know to help patients manange changes in their lymphedema. It is important that both patients and therapists know all of the options for edema control and when to use them.
These treatments often include the use of compression. Compression may reduce acute post-operative edema or more chronic edemas (such as post-radiation edema), as well as Truncal Lymphdema.The Bellisse Compressure Comfort Bra can be used as a compression foundation from which the therapist can custom-build a compression system to suit each individual patient’s needs.
One area of the body that often needs custom care is the axilla, or underarm region. This can be an extremely sensitive area, especially after surgery or radiation. The Compressure Comfort® Bra pays special attention to the axilla. The bra’s specially-designed underarm gusset is made of a separate, lighter piece of material that curves in and hugs the lateral trunk and inferior axillary region, so that support is provided without aggressive pressure on a tender area. The fabric was carefully selected to offer incredible softness and light support as it wicks away moisture. The design of the underarm gusset also avoids pressure on any drain port sites.
Narrow, conventional bra straps can impede lymphatic flow at the area of the terminus and be uncomfortable for any post-surgical patient. The Compressure Comfort® Bra has wide,soft, adjustable padded straps that won’t cut into your patient's shoulders. This strap also allows her to raise or lower the underarm gusset for a fit most comfortable for her.
Sometimes the lymphedema therapist may need to use an additional product to apply compression in the harder-to-reach area under the arm. Some patients need this compression only at night, while others need it all the time. There are several effective products to consider for this purpose. Jovi and Pennisula medical can make custom pads for chest wall edema that are specifically designed to fit under the Bellisse Compressure Comfort® Bra. These will extend from the center of the chest to the spine, and from the bottom of the bra up to the edge of the bra. Many of these have an added flap that goes above the gusset and then fits nicely into the armpit, where it is held in place by the bra and anchored by the rest of the pad. Another alternative is the crescent-shaped pads (nicknamed “blue bananas” by therapists) made by Jovi, Pennisula and Solaris. The therapist or patient can sew small elastic bands onto these pads and pin them to the bra strap. These pads are not held in place by the bra, however – they start around the outer edge of the gusset and push up into the armpit, creating a “wedge” of compression.
Remember to use these compression pads in conjunction with the Bellisse Compressure Comfort® Bra, or lymphatic fluid will accumulate in the lateral chest wall.
Lightning 2, LLC