Compression Gloves: Usage, Benefits, Selection, and Care

How Do You Use Compression Gloves?

Compression gloves are designed to provide gentle, consistent pressure to the hands, aiding in circulation, reducing swelling, and alleviating pain for various conditions and activities. Proper usage involves selecting the correct size and fit, understanding optimal wear times, and maintaining the gloves for hygiene and longevity.

Understanding Compression Gloves

Compression gloves are specialized garments crafted from elastic materials, typically a blend of nylon and spandex, designed to exert mild to moderate pressure on the hands and wrists. Their primary mechanism of action involves:

• Improved Circulation: The gentle compression helps to constrict superficial blood vessels, encouraging blood flow back towards the heart and reducing venous pooling. This can aid in diminishing swelling (edema) and delivering oxygen and nutrients more efficiently to tissues.
• Reduced Swelling: By limiting fluid accumulation in the joints and soft tissues, compression gloves can help decrease inflammation and the associated discomfort.
• Pain Relief: The supportive pressure can help stabilize joints, reduce tissue vibration during movement, and potentially interfere with pain signals, offering symptomatic relief for conditions like arthritis.
• Proprioceptive Feedback: The constant tactile input from the gloves enhances proprioception, the body's awareness of its position and movement in space. This can improve hand control and coordination, which is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing joint instability.

Who Can Benefit from Compression Gloves?

Compression gloves are widely utilized across various demographics for both therapeutic and preventative purposes. Key beneficiaries include:

• Individuals with Arthritis: Especially those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, where the gloves can alleviate joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• People with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: By providing gentle support and reducing inflammation around the wrist, they can help manage symptoms.
• Those with Raynaud's Phenomenon: The gloves can help maintain warmth and improve circulation to the digits, mitigating symptoms of cold sensitivity.
• Edema Sufferers: For individuals experiencing swelling in their hands due to injury, surgery, or underlying conditions, compression can help manage fluid retention.
• Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: Used for recovery post-exercise, to reduce hand swelling after intense activity, or to provide joint support during repetitive movements.
• Individuals with Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Such as those who spend extended periods typing, playing musical instruments, or engaging in fine motor tasks, where the gloves can offer support and reduce fatigue.

Choosing the Right Compression Gloves

Effective use of compression gloves begins with selecting the appropriate pair. Several factors are critical:

• Fit is Paramount: The gloves must be snug enough to provide consistent pressure but not so tight as to restrict blood flow, cause numbness, or leave deep indentations. Ill-fitting gloves can exacerbate symptoms or lead to new issues.
• Material: Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that can be worn for extended periods without causing skin irritation. Common materials include nylon, spandex, and sometimes copper-infused fabrics.
• Design:
  • Fingerless gloves are popular as they allow for full dexterity and tactile sensation, making them suitable for daily activities like typing, writing, or cooking.
  • Full-finger gloves offer complete coverage and warmth, which can be beneficial for conditions like Raynaud's or for overnight wear.
• Compression Level: Most over-the-counter compression gloves offer mild to moderate compression. For specific medical conditions, a healthcare professional might recommend a particular compression level.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Compression Gloves

Once you have the correct gloves, proper application and wear are key to maximizing their benefits.

• Step 1: Proper Sizing: Before purchase, measure your hand circumference around the knuckles (excluding the thumb) to match it against the manufacturer's sizing chart. This ensures the correct, therapeutic fit.
• Step 2: Donning the Gloves: Gently slide your hand into the glove, ensuring that the fabric lies flat without any wrinkles or bunching, particularly around the knuckles and wrist. Wrinkles can create pressure points and reduce effectiveness.
• Step 3: Wear Duration:
  • Daytime Use: Many individuals wear compression gloves throughout the day, especially during activities that trigger symptoms, such as typing, crafting, or driving.
  • Overnight Use: Some find relief wearing them while sleeping, particularly for morning stiffness and swelling. However, always ensure they are not too tight to avoid compromising circulation during prolonged rest.
  • Activity-Specific: Wear them during or after specific activities that cause hand fatigue or pain.
• Step 4: Activities While Wearing: Most compression gloves, especially fingerless designs, are intended to allow you to perform daily tasks unhindered. You should be able to grip objects, type, and move your fingers relatively freely.
• Step 5: When to Remove: Remove the gloves if you experience any signs of discomfort, numbness, tingling, coldness, or discoloration in your fingers, as these indicate the gloves might be too tight or worn for too long. It's advisable to take periodic breaks, especially during prolonged wear.

Care and Maintenance of Compression Gloves

Proper care extends the lifespan of your compression gloves and maintains their hygienic properties.

• Washing Instructions: Most compression gloves are machine washable on a gentle cycle with cold water, or hand-washed. Use a mild detergent. Avoid bleach, as it can damage the elastic fibers.
• Drying: Air-dry your gloves by laying them flat or hanging them. Avoid using a machine dryer, as high heat can degrade the elastic and reduce the compression effectiveness.
• Storage: Store them in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Important Considerations and Precautions

While generally safe, it's crucial to use compression gloves judiciously and be aware of potential issues.

• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before incorporating compression gloves into your routine, especially for chronic conditions or severe pain, consult with a doctor, physical therapist, or occupational therapist. They can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate intervention.
• Signs of Improper Use: Be vigilant for any adverse reactions such as increased pain, swelling, numbness, tingling, skin irritation, or changes in skin color (blueness or paleness). If any of these occur, remove the gloves immediately and consult a healthcare provider.
• Not a Cure: Compression gloves are a supportive tool for symptom management, not a cure for underlying medical conditions. They should be used as part of a broader treatment plan.
• Hygiene: Regular washing is essential to prevent bacterial buildup, especially with prolonged wear.

Conclusion

Compression gloves are a valuable tool for managing hand pain, swelling, and stiffness, offering comfort and support for a range of conditions and activities. By understanding their mechanism, selecting the correct fit, and adhering to proper usage and care guidelines, individuals can effectively leverage these garments to improve hand function and quality of life. Always prioritize comfort and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice to ensure safe and effective use.