TY  - INPR
T1  - Providing Compression Options: The Key to Better Compliance and Concordance
T5  - Poster presented at ALA Virtual Conference 2020
LA  - English
AU  - Ehmann, Jacqueline Suzie
AU  - Bock, Karen J
AB  - Aim:
Compression remains the gold standard for long-term management of chronic edema. Reviews have shown that the benefits of compression diminish according to levels of non-adherence. Reasons commonly stated for nonadherence to compression include inconvenience, heat, cost, and pain. We hypothesize that offering compression options will have positive impact on patients’ compliance and concordance to compression regimens.

Method:
Observational study performed at 2 different edema management clinics. Ten patients presenting with lower extremity swelling and history of non-compliance with previous compression regiments were observed. Objective data measured included limb volume, range of motion (ROM), functional activity status using the Timed Up and Go(TUG), and assessment of quality of life (QOL) using the Lymphoedema QOL Tool (LYMQOL-LEG). Measurements were taken at four different intervals over a minimum of 3 months. Compression options were individualized to patient's physical presentation and lifestyle for long term management of their edema.

Results / Discussion:
Compression therapy had a positive impact on all outcomes measured during the intensive phase of therapy. Follow-up outside the intensive phase of therapy demonstrated further volume loss in 6/10 subjects; Volume remained constant 3/10, increased slightly 1/10. LYMQOL scores and functional performance level maintained stable during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:
Offering multiple compression options including custom and ready-to-wear flat knit stockings*, an adjustable wrap ** and nighttime compression options*** had a positive impact on patients’ adherence to compression regimens during the study period compared to single compression modalities offered previously. Individualizing the compression regimen to each patient’s lifestyle improved their adherence to chronic edema management.
CY  - Hobart, Australia
Y2  - 1590616800
KW  - ExoStrong™
KW  - TributeNight™
ER  -