Use in Everyday Movement and Rehabilitation

Practical Guidance for Supporting Comfort, Confidence, and Participation

Bariatric Technologies support garments are designed to be used as part of everyday life and movement‑based programs. When thoughtfully introduced, they may help individuals feel more secure and comfortable while walking, exercising, and performing daily tasks.

This page outlines practical considerations for assessing needs, fitting garments, and incorporating wear into daily activities and rehabilitation‑focused programs, while respecting existing care approaches.

Identifying When Added Support May Be Helpful

Support garments may be considered for individuals who experience challenges related to excess skin. Common considerations include:

  • Discomfort or pulling sensations when walking or changing positions
  • Excess tissue movement that interferes with balance or ease of motion
  • Skin irritation caused by friction during activity
  • Hesitation or reduced confidence when participating in movement or exercise

The goal is to identify when additional external support may help reduce distractions related to excess tissue, allowing the individual to focus more comfortably on movement and function.

Fitting and Getting Started

Proper fit plays an important role in comfort and wearability. When introducing a support garment, consider the following:

Sizing

  • Follow the sizing guidance provided: Metric / Imperial units
  • Choose a size that provides supportive contact without feeling restrictive
  • Reassess fit over time, as body shape and size may change during weight loss

Putting it on

  • Ensure the individual is comfortable with how to put the garment on and take it off. The instructions are found here. 
  • Introduce techniques that reduce effort and frustration
  • Allow time for adjustment during the initial wear period

Wear Schedule

  • Encourage gradual introduction, starting with shorter periods of wear
  • Build up wear time based on comfort and daily routines
  • Emphasize listening to the body and monitoring skin comfort

Incorporating Garment Wear Into Everyday Activities

Support garments are designed to fit seamlessly into daily life. They may be worn during:

  • Walking and standing activities
  • Household tasks and errands
  • Returning to work or community activities
  • Light to moderate physical activity

Because garments are discreet and designed for extended wear, individuals can often integrate them into their routines without significant disruption.

Use During Rehabilitation and Movement‑Based Programs

For individuals participating in rehabilitation or structured movement programs, garments may be worn during:

  • Walking and gait‑focused activities
  • Sit‑to‑stand practice and transfers
  • Strengthening or conditioning exercises
  • Functional task training and mobility practice

Added support may help individuals focus on movement mechanics and tolerance by reducing awareness of excess tissue movement during activity. Garments are intended to support participation, not replace existing strategies or techniques.

Monitoring Comfort and Ongoing Use

Ongoing check‑ins help ensure the garment continues to be appropriate and comfortable. Encourage individuals to observe:

  • Overall comfort during activity
  • Any areas of skin irritation or friction
  • Ease of movement and confidence
  • Fit changes over time

Adjust wear patterns or sizing as needed to align with changes in activity level and body shape.

Supporting a Positive Experience

Introducing a support garment is also an opportunity to reinforce respect, dignity, and autonomy. Consider:

  • Involving individuals in decisions about wear and timing
  • Normalizing garment use as a supportive tool, not a limitation
  • Encouraging feedback about comfort and preferences

The intent is to provide a practical option that supports engagement and confidence, while remaining flexible and person‑centered.

Designed to Complement Existing Care

Bariatric Technologies garments are designed to complement—not replace—current approaches to care. They may be used alongside rehabilitation, physical activity programs, and daily routines to help individuals feel more comfortable as they move through their weight‑loss journey.