This disclosure relates to a compression dressing designed to provide moisture transport properties to a contact surface and compression therapy for patients with swelling due to various medical conditions. The compression dressing is minimally comprised of at least one layer of moisture transport fabric comprised of elastic fiber that exhibits a sufficient amount of elasticity to apply a compressive force to a body part when applied thereto. The compression dressing further provides one-way, active fluid management which can move fluid away from the skin. The compression dressing may also include at least one absorptive reservoir layer that is applied to the outer surface of the moisture transport fabric. This absorptive reservoir layer may be removed as needed without substantially disrupting the compressive force applied to a body part. The method for using the compression dressing to manage fluid movement and edema is also provided.