Abstract: An apparatus and system is disclosed for applying a compressive force to the axilla of an individual to reduce or inter the flow of blood to the individual's upper extremity. An inflatable bladder may be mounted on a flexible plate and directed toward the apex of the axilla. The flexible plate may be attached to a flexible retention strap that can be wrapped around the individual's torso or over the individual's shoulder. The retention strap may be secured in a number of ways, and the flexible plate and attached strap provide enough stiffness to direct the expanding bladder toward the axilla. The expanded shape of the bladder may conform to the shape of the axillary recess, or an attached adjacent compression mass may be sufficiently flexible upon expansion of the bladder to conform to the shape of the axillary recess.