ActiLymph®

What is ActiLymph®?

ActiLymph® is a specialist compression hosiery range developed by Lohmann & Rauscher specifically for patients with lymphoedema, chronic oedema, and related conditions. While standard compression hosiery like Activa® British Standard is designed for legs without swelling, ActiLymph® is purpose-built for limbs where oedema is present.

The range uses European Class (RAL standard) compression levels rather than British Standard, providing the higher pressures often required to manage lymphatic conditions effectively. Combined with stiffer fabric construction, ActiLymph® delivers the compression and support needed to control swelling and maintain limb volume reduction achieved through intensive treatment.

ActiLymph® vs Activa® — Which Do I Need?

Understanding the difference between these two L&R ranges is essential for effective treatment:

Activa® British Standard — For venous conditions without oedema. Ideal for varicose veins, tired legs, DVT prevention, and maintaining healthy circulation in normally shaped limbs.

ActiLymph® European Class — For conditions with oedema present. Designed for lymphoedema, chronic oedema, lipoedema, and limbs with swelling. Features stiffer fabric that conforms to irregular limb shapes while providing therapeutic compression.

If you're unsure which range is appropriate for you, consult a healthcare professional who can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable hosiery.

European Class Compression Levels

ActiLymph® uses the European (RAL) compression classification system, which provides higher pressures than the equivalent British Standard classes:

Class 1 (18-21mmHg) — Light compression for early or mild chronic oedema and lymphoedema where swelling is light to moderate with little shape distortion. Also suitable for lipoedema, prophylaxis, maintenance therapy, palliative use, and patients who are pressure-sensitive.

Class 2 (23-32mmHg) — Medium compression for moderate to severe chronic oedema or lymphoedema. Can be used as part of active treatment and to provide ongoing maintenance therapy. This is the most commonly prescribed class for lymphoedema management.

Class 3 (34-46mmHg) — Strong compression for severe chronic oedema and lymphoedema. Typically used when lower compression classes have failed to control swelling adequately. Should only be used where there is slight or minor limb shape distortion.

For a detailed comparison of compression standards, visit our Compression Levels Guide.

ActiLymph® Product Range

The ActiLymph® range offers garments for both lower and upper limbs:

Lower Limb Hosiery:

• Below Knee Stockings — Available in Class 1, 2, and 3. The most common style for lower leg lymphoedema. Options include closed toe and open toe, with multiple length options (petite, regular, tall) to suit different leg lengths.
• Thigh Length Hold Up Stockings — Available in Class 1, 2, and 3. Features a silicone grip top band to keep the stocking in place without the need for suspenders. Ideal for patients with thigh involvement or those who prefer full-leg coverage.

Upper Limb Garments:

• Arm Sleeves — Available in Class 1 and 2 with or without grip top. Designed for arm lymphoedema, commonly experienced following breast cancer treatment or lymph node removal.
• Combined Arm Sleeves — Arm sleeve with attached gauntlet for seamless compression from hand to upper arm. Available in Class 1 and 2.

Leg Ulcer Hosiery Kits:

• ActiLymph® Below Knee Hosiery Kit — A two-layer system providing 40mmHg combined compression for venous leg ulcer treatment in limbs with oedema. An alternative to compression bandaging that supports patient self-care and reduces nursing time.

Key Features & Benefits

ActiLymph® hosiery is engineered with lymphoedema patients in mind:

• Stiffer fabric construction — Delivers the correct compression levels and fabric stiffness needed to manage lymphoedema effectively
• Excellent limb conformity — Conforms well to irregular limb shapes, providing correct support even on swollen or distorted limbs
• Climate comfort — Advanced yarn technology helps regulate temperature and moisture for all-day comfort
• Latex-free options — Suitable for patients with latex sensitivities
• Multiple size options — Wide range of sizes including petite, regular, and tall lengths to accommodate different body types
• NHS available — Listed on Drug Tariff (FP10/GP10) for prescription
• Machine washable — Can be washed up to 40°C and guaranteed for 100 washes

Conditions Treated with ActiLymph®

ActiLymph® is clinically indicated for:

• Lymphoedema (primary and secondary)
• Chronic oedema
• Lipoedema
• Venous leg ulcers with oedema
• Post-intensive treatment maintenance
• Palliative lymphoedema care
• Prophylaxis in at-risk patients

For detailed information on lymphoedema management, visit our Lymphoedema Guide or explore our Condition Guides.

Part of a Complete Lymphoedema Care Pathway

ActiLymph® works alongside other Lohmann & Rauscher products to provide comprehensive lymphoedema management:

• ReadyWrap® Adjustable Compression Wraps — For patients who prefer adjustable compression or find hosiery difficult to apply. Ideal during the active treatment phase or for fluctuating limb volumes.
• Cellona® Padding — Synthetic padding used beneath compression bandaging to protect bony prominences and reshape distorted limbs before transitioning to hosiery.
• ActiGlide® Application Aid — Makes donning ActiLymph® hosiery easier for patients with limited mobility or dexterity.
• Made to Measure Options — For patients whose limbs don't fit standard sizing, L&R offers made to measure ActiLymph® garments delivered within 5 working days.

Important Considerations

ActiLymph® may not be suitable for all patients. Contraindications include:

• Large or irregular-shaped limbs (compression bandaging may be needed first)
• Current acute inflammatory episode or cellulitis
• Acute deep vein thrombosis
• Fragile or significantly damaged skin
• Significant arterial disease (ABPI <0.8 or >1.3) unless under specialist supervision
• Congestive heart failure (compression can lead to cardiac overload)
• Diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis (unless under specialist supervision)

We strongly recommend being assessed and measured by a trained healthcare professional before using ActiLymph® hosiery. Correct sizing is essential for therapeutic effectiveness and comfort.

For more information on compression therapy contraindications, visit our Contraindications Guide or contact our team for advice.