Compression gloves are specialized garments worn on the hands and wrists. They provide gentle, consistent pressure to the hands. This pressure aims to alleviate discomfort and support hand function for various conditions.
Understanding Compression Principles
Compression gloves apply uniform pressure around the hands and fingers. This gentle squeeze helps support circulation, reducing swelling (edema) by pushing excess fluid out of swollen areas.
They also provide warmth, which can relax muscles and contribute to pain relief. This warmth, combined with mild support, helps stabilize joints and soft tissues. These effects can lead to decreased pain and stiffness, potentially enhancing dexterity and range of motion.
Common Conditions They Address
Compression gloves are used for various hand conditions where swelling, pain, or stiffness are present. Their ability to provide gentle pressure and warmth makes them suitable for managing symptoms.
Arthritis
For individuals with arthritis, including both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, compression gloves reduce swelling and stiffness in inflamed joints, provide support, and relieve pain. The warmth they provide increases blood flow, easing discomfort and improving hand function.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, compression gloves offer support and reduce wrist swelling, which may alleviate pressure on the median nerve. However, direct compression over the carpal tunnel might worsen symptoms for some, so consulting a healthcare professional is advisable. The warmth provided by the gloves can still offer comfort and improve blood flow.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
For Raynaud’s Phenomenon, where blood vessels in the fingers constrict in response to cold or stress, compression gloves provide warmth and encourage better circulation to the digits. This helps reduce numbness and color changes.
General Hand Swelling or Edema
General hand swelling or edema, whether from injury, surgery, or prolonged activity, can be managed with compression gloves. Consistent pressure controls fluid accumulation, decreasing stiffness and discomfort. This is useful in post-surgical recovery or following hand fractures.
Tendinitis or Tenosynovitis
Individuals with tendinitis or tenosynovitis, which involve inflammation of tendons or their sheaths, may find relief from the support and gentle compression. The pressure reduces inflammation and provides stability to affected tendons.
Overuse Injuries
For overuse injuries leading to hand fatigue or discomfort from repetitive tasks, compression gloves offer supportive comfort. They reduce muscle tension and provide stability during activities that might otherwise strain the hands.
Selecting and Caring for Compression Gloves
When selecting compression gloves, consider material composition, such as cotton, nylon, or spandex blends, for breathability, stretch, and feel. A snug fit is important for proper compression, but avoid anything too tight, which could hinder circulation. Measure your hand around the knuckles to determine the correct size. Styles include open-finger designs for dexterity and touchscreen use, or full-finger for maximum warmth and coverage.
Wear compression gloves as needed, whether during the day or overnight to alleviate morning stiffness and pain. Avoid wearing them for 24 hours straight to maintain skin hygiene. If worn for extended periods, ensure they are comfortable and not overly tight.
Hand wash with a mild detergent in lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, and fabric softeners, as these can damage the material and reduce the glove’s elasticity and compression properties. After washing, gently rinse the gloves and air dry them flat; direct heat can also degrade the fabric. For persistent or severe hand pain, or if symptoms worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.