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sarene brooks

Active Wear for Diabetes Devices – I love my pump, but where do I put it?

I have raised two boys with type 1 diabetes, educated many insulin users, and have several friends who also use pumps and CGMs. This technology is amazing. When my oldest son was diagnosed, CGMs were not readily available and pumps had only basic features compared to today. I remember him being hesitant to get a CGM when they were an option because it was “just one more thing” to have attached to his body. Now his CGM is viewed as a valuable tool to help with his diabetes management. I have heard both of my boys share tips with each other on how they manage their pump and tubing while they are sleeping, exercising, and just moving about in their daily life.

Years ago, I was having a conversation with a friend. She had had diabetes for about 10 years and was working full-time. As part of her professional attire, she frequently wore a dress. Many of you who are reading this right now have experienced the same dilemma she did. “Where do I put my pump?”.  She showed me a “thigh-band” she had made out of stretchy fabric to hold her pump in place. A note for those who don’t wear a dress, there is no waistband to pull the pump and tubing through and usually no pockets to put it in.

I am sure many of you have found remedies to this problem. However, I am frequently asked for ideas of managing the tubing at night and where to put their pump in situations such as wearing a dress, being physically active and just everyday wear.

I have gathered some ideas from “the experts” (aka friends and family) who have come up with some solutions and want to share them with you. 

Pump holsters and cases:

These have been around for a long time but they are improving in quality and personalization. The holsters are made of a strong thermoplastic material and can hook on a belt or waistband. They work great for someone who wears their shirt tucked in and needs easy access to their pump. It holds the pump securely with no need for pockets. There are companies who will personalize your pump holster which would be a fun addition to your diabetes ensemble. Look for one that holds your specific pump. There are also soft cases that enclose the pump. They have a belt loop for vertical or horizontal use as well as a metal clip to go over a belt.

Bands:

The bands are made of a comfortable stretchy material with a pocket that holds the pump tightly in place.  There are a variety of choices including bands for the waist, thigh and upper arm. These are great when you are being active and want your pump to stay secure. The waistbands work particularly well for sleeping. It not only holds the pump but it also keeps your tubing protected. No more wrestling with the tubing when you are trying to get a good night’s rest. It also prevents that awful time when your tubing catches on something as you are walking by.

Active wear for men, women and children:

Men: compression shorts, tank tops, and briefs

Women: Leggings,  thigh bands, tank tops, and compression shorts

Kids: Tank tops, waistbands, compression shorts, underwear.

Imagine going for a run with your pump securely fastened. Or sending your child to school where they are sure to have many occasions to drop their pump or snag their tubing. I think this would also help with the “tubing in the bed” ordeal as they are moving all over their bed during sleep. These are made in all sizes, colors and are very fashionable.

Attire made to hold cell phones:

If you are careful to make sure your pump fits, clothing made to hold a cell phone is also an option. These would include running belts, sports bras, tank tops, compression shorts, athletic pants, and leggings. Just make sure it will accommodate your pump and tubing.

Another issue that frequently arises is how to keep a CGM or tubeless pump (Ominpod) in place for its entire duration.

Other Ideas:

There is adhesive tape as well as adhesive patches available to fit over specific CGMs the Omnipod. They come in clear as well as a variety of fun colors. They are waterproof and sweatproof which would really help for someone who is particularly active. They also work great for the person who has a difficult time getting their CGM or Omnipod to stick to their skin.

Coban tape is another good solution when you just need to protection for a short time as in a sporting event. Coban is an elastic-like bandage that only sticks to itself. For example, it can be wrapped around the arm, covering the CGM or Omnipod pump and then overlap on itself. This provides protection to the device, preventing it from being torn off in the event of contact. It also comes in a variety of colors. It is water-resistant, lightweight, and comfortable.

If you are having trouble with your CGM or tubeless pump staying in place, you don’t know where to put your pump with certain clothes, or just want your pump and tubing to be held in place, try out some of these suggestions. Everyone has their own unique situation but hopefully, this will give you some ideas of something that will work for YOU.

You may have some ideas of your own and I would sincerely LOVE to hear them. Please share them and email me!

April 2022 Newsletter