Compression gloves are specialized garments designed to provide mild, consistent pressure to the hands and wrists. Their purpose is to support the hand joints and surrounding tissues, offering relief from common symptoms like stiffness and mild aches. The gentle pressure improves comfort and support for individuals engaging in daily activities that involve their hands. They serve as a non-invasive support measure, offering stability without severely restricting movement.
Conditions That Benefit from Compression Gloves
Compression gloves are frequently used by individuals managing chronic conditions that affect the small joints of the hands. The primary mechanism involves applying pressure to reduce swelling, a common feature of inflammatory conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA). This gentle, uniform pressure helps push excess fluid out of the tissues, minimizing associated pain. Furthermore, compression encourages better blood flow, which helps increase hand temperature and may reduce morning stiffness often experienced by those with arthritis.
Beyond arthritis, these gloves can offer relief for symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in non-severe cases by providing support and warmth. People who engage in repetitive tasks, such as typing, crafting, or prolonged use of hand tools, often wear them to combat hand fatigue. The supportive structure helps stabilize the joints during activity, potentially reducing strain and discomfort. Improved blood flow promoted by the compression can also benefit individuals with general circulatory issues in the hands.
Essential Features for Choosing the Right Pair
Compression Level and Sizing
Selecting an effective pair starts with understanding the compression level, which refers to the pressure applied to the hand. Most over-the-counter options offer mild compression, designed for daily wear to provide comfort and warmth. Some brands offer moderate or medical-grade compression, which provides a stronger therapeutic effect. Gloves that are too tight can restrict blood circulation and cause numbness, while loose gloves will not provide the necessary pressure to reduce swelling effectively.
Accurate sizing is the most important factor, ensuring the glove provides the intended therapeutic pressure without causing harm. To determine the correct size, measure the circumference of your hand across the knuckles, excluding the thumb. This measurement should then be compared against the manufacturer’s specific sizing chart, as measurements can vary between brands. If your measurement falls between two sizes, sizing up is generally recommended for comfort, especially for first-time wearers. Some users, however, may choose to size down for a tighter fit and more compression.
Styles and Materials
Gloves come in two main styles: fingerless and full-finger designs. Fingerless gloves are the most common choice, as they provide support while leaving the fingertips exposed for dexterity needed for tasks like typing or using touchscreens. Full-finger gloves offer more warmth and complete coverage for those who experience pain or swelling extending to the tips of their fingers.
Most compression gloves are constructed from a blend of Nylon and Spandex or Elastane, which provides the necessary stretch and moisture-wicking properties. Some products are copper-infused, a feature often marketed for its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. Scientific evidence for copper’s therapeutic effect beyond the compression itself is mixed.
Retail and Digital Outlets for Purchase
The quickest option for purchasing compression gloves is often through physical pharmacies or large big-box stores. These locations provide immediate access to the product and an easy return process if the fit is incorrect. However, the selection is typically limited to basic, lower-compression styles, and the staff may not be able to offer specialized advice on sizing or product features.
Online retailers, including major marketplaces and dedicated medical e-commerce sites, offer the broadest selection of styles, materials, and price points. You can easily compare customer reviews and product specifications, often finding better prices and a greater variety of features. The primary drawback of shopping online is the inability to try on the glove before purchase, which increases the risk of incorrect sizing, rendering the product ineffective.
For individuals requiring a specific fit or a higher level of medical-grade compression, specialty medical supply stores are the best option. These stores offer professional fitting advice from trained personnel who can accurately measure your hand and recommend the appropriate compression level. While the cost may be higher, the personalized attention and access to higher-grade products are valuable for ensuring the glove provides the maximum therapeutic benefit.