Compression gloves are specialized garments designed to manage symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis, edema, or peripheral neuropathy. They are typically made from a flexible blend of materials, such as nylon and spandex, which apply a mild, consistent pressure across the hand and wrist. These gloves are intended to offer relief by supporting the joints and improving comfort. However, wearing compression gloves for 24 hours a day is generally discouraged due to potential adverse effects that outweigh the benefits of constant use. Optimal usage involves strategic scheduling to align with periods of pain or activity, ensuring the hands also receive necessary breaks from the constant pressure.
How Compression Gloves Provide Relief
The therapeutic effect of these gloves comes from the application of gentle, balanced pressure over the soft tissues of the hand. This constant force helps to improve microcirculation, which is the flow of blood through the smallest vessels in the hands and fingers. Better blood flow ensures a more efficient supply of oxygen and nutrients to the affected joints and muscles.
The mild compression also acts to reduce the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues, a condition known as edema or swelling. By encouraging the movement of this fluid, the gloves can decrease overall hand volume and alleviate pressure on nerve endings. Furthermore, the snug fit provides warmth, which can soothe stiff joints, and offers proprioceptive feedback, helping the wearer feel more aware of their hand position and stability during movement.
Risks and Limitations of Continuous Wear
Wearing compression gloves around the clock is not recommended because the hands require periods of rest for normal physiological function and hygiene. One primary concern is the integrity of the skin, as continuous wear can trap moisture and sweat against the skin’s surface. This prolonged moisture creates an environment conducive to chafing, maceration, or skin breakdown, especially along the seams or creases of the fingers and wrist.
A constant pressure can also interfere with the body’s natural mechanisms for fluid management. While compression initially aids lymphatic drainage, the lymphatic vessels require a rhythmic, pumping action, often assisted by muscle movement, to function efficiently. Static, non-stop pressure can potentially hinder this natural fluid cycling process, reducing the effectiveness of the compression over time.
Continuous compression also carries the risk of nerve or vascular compromise if the glove is even slightly too tight or if hand swelling fluctuates unexpectedly. Signs like tingling, numbness, or a change in skin color indicate that circulation is being restricted, which necessitates immediate removal of the glove. For the intrinsic muscles of the hand, constant external support can lead to a form of muscle dependency or deconditioning. The hand needs periods of unassisted movement to maintain strength and mobility, and relying on the glove’s stabilizing effect 24/7 may weaken the muscles over the long term.
Guidelines for Appropriate Wear Time
Instead of continuous use, a strategic approach to wear time is necessary to maximize benefits while mitigating risks. Most general guidelines suggest limiting the use of compression gloves to periods of 4 to 8 hours at a time, with scheduled breaks. A common protocol involves wearing the gloves during the day when performing activities that tend to trigger pain, such as typing, cooking, or gardening.
It is highly beneficial to remove the gloves for at least an hour every four to six hours to allow the skin to breathe and to perform gentle hand exercises without external pressure. Nighttime use is a common practice to combat morning stiffness, which is a hallmark of inflammatory conditions like arthritis. When wearing them overnight, it is especially important to ensure the fit is not constricting, as reduced awareness during sleep makes it harder to notice early signs of restricted circulation.
Users should always start by wearing the gloves for short intervals and gradually increase the duration as comfort allows. The ultimate guide for wear time is listening to the body; any sensation of throbbing, increased swelling, or numbness signals that the gloves need to be removed immediately. If the need for constant compression persists, a health professional consultation is advisable to explore other treatment options.
Selecting the Correct Compression Level and Fit
The safety and effectiveness of a compression glove are directly tied to its correct selection and fit. Over-the-counter compression gloves typically offer mild pressure, which is sufficient for general support and edema management. However, for specific medical conditions, a healthcare provider or occupational therapist may recommend a medical-grade garment with a quantified pressure level, usually measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Key Elements of Selection and Fit
- To ensure a proper fit, users must accurately measure their hand circumference, typically around the knuckles, excluding the thumb.
- The measurement should be taken using a soft tape measure, ensuring it is snug but not tight.
- An ill-fitting glove is ineffective if too loose and potentially harmful if too tight, as it can create a tourniquet effect or put excessive pressure on sensitive areas.
- Material choice also impacts wearability, with breathable fabrics like cotton or nylon blends being preferred for extended use to manage moisture.
Many gloves feature an open-finger design, which is important for maintaining dexterity and tactile sensation, allowing users to perform detailed tasks while still benefiting from joint support. Consulting a professional for complex or persistent swelling issues ensures the selection of a glove that supports the hands without causing localized pressure points or restricting necessary movement.