Best Compression Leggings for Lipedema: Tips for Finding and Wearing Your Next Favorite Pair

[@sturdywoman]

Looking for a written version of this content? Head over to the website: sturdywoman.com/2024/06/27/compression-leggings-for-lipedema-and-lymphedema-complete-guide/

[@wandacraig8286]

Unfortunately as far as the compression leggings go, I'm to fat to fit at this point, so I'll just have to work on getting down from a 6X to a 4X. But all the other info I can implement now. I'm 65 and feeling a bit overwhelmed at this point, but I'm determined and have my boxing gloves on. The exhaustion is one of my biggest enemies right now, that and the amount of money needed to do everything I need to do. I keep telling myself, baby steps...😊.I'm so grateful to have found your channel. I find myself on a rollercoaster of emotions from feeling overwhelmed at all that lays ahead, to absolute joy at the prospects of getting the help I now know is available. I can never fully express my gratitude for all you are doing to help so many of us who were literally feeling like we had reached the point of no return and no hope! I don't have the words or energy at this point but I now have hope and that is everything right now. Thank you isn't sufficient but I hope you hear my heart❤

[@smilesoftexas]

You are not alone. I have just recently learned about Lipedema. Had never heard of it before but I am so relieved to know that there are answers. I have suffered for so long with multiple autoimmune diseases but i could never get answers to why my fat areas hurt so much, or why i can start out the day with flat areas in my body but by the end of day I would have pockets of fluid in my back and arms. I am 60 yrs old and a size 4X (I prefer to wear loose clothing) and the thought of wearing compression garments in Texas heat scares the booger out of me. So…we are in the same leaky boat….but I see the shore!!

[@kzp5249]

@@wandacraig8286 I spent loads of money buying all sorts of expensive garments and machines. I also tweaked my eating a bit to leave almost all carbs. I think if I did this first, before spending on everything else I did I would have been happier as dietary changes helped me drop cm and weight which is first time in ages and after so many attempts to lose fat and weight! Low carb high protein high fat worked for me . Ps I only saw dramatic changes after the 3 months but felt difference in first few weeks , Nafld reveresed, glucose levels lowered and weight loss.

[@carnivoremoxie]

I just started wearing compression leggings. What a difference! I only wear them at night at present due to the heat and humidity. And i started with a cheap pair off Amazon. Next pair will be the ones you recommend.... if these cheap ones are helping this much i can't wait to see how the ones you recommend help.

[@milkmaid4077]

I have a pair of CZ Salus from Italy. THEY ARE WONDERFUL. well worth the cost. I'm buying from the company directly next time. Also, the size guide was perfect for me.

[@bioenergetics]

Please link the cheap pair you bought off Amazon that helped you.

[@SharrellKline]

Please everyone, DO share tips for what to wear in hot weather. It's in the 90s here in Mexico where I live, and even though it's dry, I need to be wearing compression. But I have not been able to wear compression for the past 6 weeks even at night because of the heat and it shows. I've been walking in the pool as much as possible but if you have a hot weather brand, I can get I'd be so grateful! I have to wear it on my arms too. I like the Kring brand for my arms which I purchased on Amazon.

[@sturdywoman]

@SharrellKline I've been experimenting with these and should have a better sense after my trip this week. They are about half as thick as the regular type: www.cizeta.it/en/Lipedema-Lymphedema-Leggings-K2-compression-25-30-mmHg-,-summer-long-pants-with-effectiveness-like-flat-knit I usually wear the K2 higher level compression, but I bet the lighter K1 is even thinner. I'll update you when I get back from my trip

[@sandraledoux8522]

Same. I live in Florida where the heat index with the humidity is 113 this week. People are dying of heat stroke. Can't even get our house cooler than 86 degrees at night and 88 during the day.

[@jenniferholland4189]

I live in Florida and love the sigvaris 20-30 sheers.

[@sturdywoman]

@jenniferholland4189 thank you! Ok, everyone looking for hot weather compression! Jennifer has a hot tip! literally ;)

[@Giraffe27]

I was looking at those 👀 how sturdy are they? I’m a little hesitant to blow $100 for sheers that will run on my second wear

[@sheissusanbeth]

I live in Florida so thank you for passing on anything you find that works better in the heat and humidity!

[@jaci4814]

Medicare covers and they are having a hay day. My new therapist ordered without my consent...25-30 whole arm sleeves... I refused as I would never wear in Florida and never be able to put on with arthritic thumbs. Then she ordered decongestant wraps for me to wear 23 hours a day to make my legs smaller. I have lived with large legs since puberty and the goal is the pain I fell in my ankles and shins. Anyway, I have a pump and use twice a day for two hours. After evening pumping, I doned the compression foot socks and the wraps and got to sleep....about four hours later I felt a ripping feeling on the outside of my leg....a large vein popped and my ankles had three red rings like a tourniquets. I have fitted beige 16-20 stockings which do the same thing and was told not to wear them. All I am saying is we have to think what is best for each of our needs. I think wearing for 23 hours a day is totally unreasonable as I would be putting on at least three separate times. My therpist has her doctorate and is no dummy, but I know this compression is very painful, over the top and at 77 maybe just too much. I have six different kinds of compression and have endured many red rings. I have so signs of ulcers, exercise regularly and eat a sugar/carb free diet. This whole thing has me weary and has taken so much joy out of my entire life! It is time for us to make sure we want to go through the hoops of what the experts say. I appreciate this site immensely because Sturdy has the experience, the ladies at lipedema-simplified.org do too, but we are all different and need to be okay with expert advice that may not be right for us as individuals!

[@ritakaye]

Thanks!

[@lawlessastrology]

I’ve been wearing CompressionZ from Amazon - I get them in Small - usually wear medium - so I’d size down. They are not medical compression but they are actual leggings that I can wear out and about with compression socks over them and they are super comfortable and do the job! I’ve been so happy with these for my Lipedema I’ve ordered like 6 pair! Also I need them to be long enough to have them over my heels so I can wear with socks and they are my favorite. I’m shocked at how stupid the medical compression companies are that basically just make tights. The leggings I have gotten from other companies have been expensive, itchy, sized weird - all a mess frankly!

[@helenguilford3136]

I like these also. Yes. A size smaller for compression.

[@crystalline9098]

Funny I just saw that you wrote about this before I mentioned it. They are decent!!!!

[@lawlessastrology]

@@crystalline9098 right? I have had the best luck with these and they are way cheaper than others and more stylish.

[@bioenergetics]

why do you have to have them long enough to go over your heels if you wear socks?

[@lawlessastrology]

@@bioenergetics because my ankles are a swelling point so to have the compression stop at my ankles cuts into my skin. Wearing the socks over compression that stops at my ankles makes it worse. If I put the garments on over my heels and then wear the socks over it doesn’t have the same issue. Hope that helps.

[@Donna.Walmsley101]

I really appreciate all your efforts, Rebekah. It’s pretty hot here in Australia but I’d still like to give the compression a go … so will get on the website and check it out! When I’ve had to put on compression stockings for surgeries in the past I’ve used a plastic bag over my feet so that the garment just slips on a bit easier, but of course then the struggle to get it up the leg goes on .. 🧚🏻‍♀️❤️🐝

[@yobiserd104]

I love the Bioflect!

[@thiabrabson2533]

Me too🎉❤ Bioflect capris & leggings make my legs happy 😅

[@toolmom6767]

I have a hard time with them as the 3XL is too small for my abdomen but fits my legs and the 4XL is too big for my legs, but fits my abdomen. Wish I could just cut them in half and sew the parts that fit me together...😊

[@Sherri_K244]

Thank you so much! I saw your video and ordered my very 1st pair of compression leggings & donning gloves. They arrived today. The gloves are a perfect helper. The leggings feel so comfortable and and soothing! I appreciate your channel very much! 🎀

[@sturdywoman]

@Sherri_K244 that's so good to hear! Compression has made a huge difference in my symptoms, but it can be a journey to find what works for your body and how to get them on. It's great to hear they are working for you - thank you for being part of the community!

[@jaci4814]

I am debating any compression due to neuropathy

[@SisterInChrist-Chrissy]

Can we order from the CZ Salas website here in the US? I dont see the US listed as a country on their site? Thank you for this video... A from the South gal here, DEF let us know your results with what you try on your trip. I'm new to Lipedema/Lymphedema and looking for my best options now as we head into the Summer... Arrrrgh!!! I really Love your channel, Thank you ❣️

[@heatherreadsreddit8579]

Another comment said that they ordered that brand through Amazon. Worth a look!

[@dianeluba9195]

To the woman who mentioned wearing her compression stockings at night I heard that is a big no no. It can be dangerous!! But thank you sturdy woman for these helpful tips!!

[@sturdywoman]

@dianeluba9195 yes agreed! It's important to give your skin a chance to rest. Thanks for reminding everyone

[@alexkinkade4965]

Can you please do a video on how to know you have the right fit compression leggings?

[@micheles2560]

Anyone have any suggestions for compression shorts that go to the knee? I wear a heavy duty compression wrap on my lower leg where I have the most issue. But I’m looking for something for my upper leg and knee area. Thanks

[@lfuentes4098]

What type of doctor do you go to, to get diagnosed with Lipedema?

[@jaci4814]

Use gardening gloves...rubberized helps

[@sturdywoman]

@jaci4814 great tip! Those should work well as long as they have some texture but not so much that they would snag your garments.

[@askew9976]

What type of pants do you wear over the compression that doesn’t cling to them and make them obvious? I already feel hot thinking about 2 pair of pants😢

[@helenguilford3136]

I just wear the compression as pants. Look like tights.

[@dawngravely2099]

Hi, just getting started. How long is good for compression. I put them on first thing in the morning and leave them on while preparing for my day and working out. This is about 4hrs... very uncomfortable for me at night. Any suggestions? Thanks ladies!!

[@issy3662]

Hi and thanks for your helpful videos. ❤ Do you know if Medicare will pay for these garments since the Lymphedema Act is now in effect as of 1/1/2024 ? Thank you. Patti

[@susanpinkston3355]

Medicare covers Lymphedema. You need prescriptions for your products

[@issy3662]

@@susanpinkston3355 yes, thank goodness. But there are certain restrictions. I hope this particular type garment is covered. Thanks.

[@Paws-A-Lot]

Hoping you may be able to answer a question since I am your size and height: The K2 open toe in Medium rolls down at my waist. Will the K1 open toe style likely roll down as well? Trying to decide between K1 in Medium or Large. I am not able to handle the roll down at the waist because it is uncomfortable. All of my measurements are in the middle of the size chart range for Medium. I am coming from 20 years of wearing knee high compression and am wanting to use the full length open toe style successfully. Thanks for any tips!🎉❤

[@donnajones9006]

My PT ordered compression thigh high and I could not get them even over my toes. I took them to her and she could not get them on. The measurements were checked and are correct but they are a no go. For now I guess I am stuck with Velcro wraps. Disappointed to say the least.

[@saimasaeed2047]

what happens when you take them off? does the swelling come back

[@watchmoivies123]

Good morning I am new to your channel and I’m looking for a compression stocking or leggings. That is a full foot. That’s what I mean covers your feet. Also I’m just beginning watching this but this looks like they don’t have any foot area that they’re just go down to the bottom of your leg can you recommend some that have full foot also because my feet are swollen thank you again.

[@sandraledoux8522]

Any suggestions for compression and massage garments to help lessen an engorged abdomen? Most of my eccess weight is in my abdomen. I litterally look 10 months pregnant even my upper abdomen is swollen. Its soft-ish sometimes but mostly hard. What can i use to cinch it in safely and encourage lymphatic drainage.

[@racheliza7604]

Hi everyone. I have just discovered this wonderful channel . I’m wondering if a rebounder/ mini trampoline is something any of you would recommend? Thank you xx

[@sturdywoman]

@racheliza7604 rebounding is great for moving lymph! I don't have one (apartment life!) but it looks like a lot of fun. The brand I most often hear people praise is Bellycon: amzn.to/45wfBxH They are a little pricey people say it's worth it. If you want to feel a little more stable you can also add a handle bar to hold on to. A cute portable rebounder for under the desk or travel is the Trampolette: amzn.to/3RzVvwA I have even heard of people taking these along on long car trips! I have tips for getting active, including with a rebounder in my video here kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZnYf6h3m8x9hsU Glad you found the channel and are finding it helpful!

[@racheliza7604]

@@sturdywoman thanks so much 💖

[@EvilFleesBeforeMe]

I have one and would recommend it

[@Tasherit78]

How do you wear them? Under clothes?

[@JennifersModesto]

Is the CZ fabric that diamond elastic stuff? I have arm shrugs by them, and I have to turn them inside out because of the elastic pattern digging into my skin.

[@sturdywoman]

@JennifersModesto the K1 is the diamond pattern but the K2 is tiny waves. I show the difference in the video at about 5:54 kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqW6lXyuod1-htksi=z4QN-Yqvtr6yFMAo&t=354. I find the K2 pattern is more comfortable. If you buy it through Amazon you should be able to try it and return it, but be sure to check the listing since most but not all allow that.

[@EvilFleesBeforeMe]

I love my compression leggins too. When i leave them off for a couple of days, my legs start swelling again 😢

[@sturdywoman]

@EvilFleesBeforeMe compression is magic, right?! Mine make such a difference I've never considered NOT wearing them over the past four years. Do you also wear CzSalus?

[@EvilFleesBeforeMe]

@@sturdywoman Yes I also wear CzSalus. I bought them after watching your video and I am in love with them

[@terrieirvin8637]

What do you do to keep your clothes from sticking to your compression leggings?

[@sturdywoman]

@terrieirvin8637 what brand are you wearing? I don't tend to have that problem with the ones I wear but I can imagine it with some of the round-knit ones that are a bit more like stocking. It could also be that I tend to wear skinny pants with a lot of stretch... so they are stuck by design :D I don't know if that's helpful?

[@terrieirvin8637]

@@sturdywoman Thanks for the reply. I wear CZ Salus. Every thing clings like velcro, pants and skirts. I do not want to change compression because these leggings hold things nicely. If I figure out a solution, I'll post it.

[@txgal5.596]

How long of wearing before you start seeing a difference?

[@sturdywoman]

@txgal5.596 I was quite swollen so I noticed a difference as soon as the first day. I ran around the house telling everyone to look at my feet because I was seeing the bones in them for the first time in YEARS :D

[@txgal5.596]

@@sturdywoman thank you. I have really swollen ankles and legs. I haven't been real regular wearing them with the entense tx heat and humidity and haven't seem much improvement yet. But I'm going to keep trying. I was so happy to stumble upon you and others that brought this disorder to light. All my udult life I've struggled and doctors always said it was hormonal, just lose weight, or the worst here's some water pills. 😤learning that lipedema not just lymphatic sent me down a new rabbit hole!

[@LeaAnnNuez]

I have looked at the czalus website and cannot figure out how to order if you live in the US?

[@jualee1]

They will ship to your address in the US. I click on the England flag. I think it has more to do with the language. I ordered two pairs and had no problems receiving them.

[@simoneking1661]

Its about to heat up in northan alabama....i may take them off. Not worth heat stoke. I wear czsalus. Thats what i was told to wear.

[@crystalline9098]

I was following up on this. I was avoiding wearing compression because I did try to use compression stockings and socks to help get rid of fluid behind a knee I have (a baker’s cyst that the physician refused to aspirate) and it wasn’t the best experience as they would bunch and dig in around the knees making things more difficult to walk. But your video talked about compression leggings which I haven’t tried. I went on Amazon and found an inexpensive brand that was also on sale called CompressionZ (I've shared a Brand Store on Amazon with you. www.amazon.com/stores/CompressionZ/CompressionZ/page/816C8F3A-A75C-4966-86DA-7A9F33A79B2E?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ast_store_SR9GDNBG1WCT6GMMSVM6&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandLogo_sto) At first I was annoyed by a lack of a sizing chart so I bought two sizes since at that time they were on sale for $19.00 (unfortunately they are not on sale anymore but I guess one should look out around Memorial Day). So maybe I still have the wrong sizing but I prefer the size I wear or maybe I need to go smaller. It seems like I’m short 5’4” and every compression stocking I have is longer than my leg/inseam. This is also true for this legging. It’s a high waist but it literally goes up to my bra line… however… I don’t complain because apparently that is what I needed to significantly move the fluid from behind my one knee as the other compression socks and stockings weren’t helping. This does not roll at all.. it may shift down but never had an issue of it rolling down at all even though it goes all the way up to my bra line. Besides helping with fluid retention, it’s been acting like shape wear as well. I am hoping to get to a point where I am not dependent on these. That is why I am now looking into lymphatic massage . I also believe that drinking enough water and trying to eliminate issues that may back up your lymph system is important. I think some of my lipidemia issues come from gluten intolerance and a digestive issue like diverticulitis that keeps waste inside a little bit waaaaaaaaaaay too long. So I would suggest for people to avoid scenarios of constipation as well.

[@EvilFleesBeforeMe]

Wow that's great info thanks. And I totally agree about the gluten. One more thing, it's good to have.long leggings that way you can leave it over your feet too ❤

[@adventures4us]

Juzo at compression guru

[@sturdywoman]

@adventures4us are you recommending those for heat or for general daily wear?

[@jaci4814]

Medicare covers and they are having a hay day. My new therapist ordered without my consent...25-30 whole arm sleeves... I refused as I would never wear in Florida and never be able to put on with arthritic thumbs. Then she ordered decongestant wraps for me to wear 23 hours a day to make my legs smaller. I have lived with large legs since puberty and the goal is the pain I fell in my ankles and shins. Anyway, I have a pump and use twice a day for two hours. After evening pumping, I doned the compression foot socks and the wraps and got to sleep....about four hours later I felt a ripping feeling on the outside of my leg....a large vein popped and my ankles had three red rings like a tourniquets. I have fitted beige 16-20 stockings which do the same thing and was told not to wear them. All I am saying is we have to think what is best for each of our needs. I think wearing for 23 hours a day is totally unreasonable as I would be putting on at least three separate times. My therpist has her doctorate and is no dummy, but I know this compression is very painful, over the top and at 77 maybe just too much. I have six different kinds of compression and have endured many red rings. I have so signs of ulcers, exercise regularly and eat a sugar/carb free diet. This whole thing has me weary and has taken so much joy out of my entire life! It is time for us to make sure we want to go through the hoops of what the experts say. I appreciate this site immensely because Sturdy has the experience, the ladies at lipedema-simplified.org do too, but we are all different and need to be okay with expert advice that may not be right for us as individuals!

[@helenguilford3136]

Yes. This site is well done with practical advice.

[@lawlessastrology]

Agree - I think those of us that live with this condition are much more knowledgeable sometimes - I know the expert surgeon I’ve been to and his team have been useless with actual Lipedema care.