The science of compression textiles and garments for upper-body lymphoedema.

Compression therapy is a cornerstone in the management of upper-body lymphoedema. Compression helps reduce oedema, restore function and improve tissue integrity, contributing to enhanced quality of life and more efficient use of healthcare resources. To achieve this, compression garments must be appropriately designed, selected and applied to meet diverse patient needs. Therapeutic effect is determined by the garment's textile properties, including resting pressure, stiffness and gradient, as well as containment, fatigue and moisture wicking. This article synthesises the evidence for how these properties impact management of lymphoedema in the upper limb, breast and trunk, as well as making recommendations for future research and innovation.