Compression socks can improve blood flow that is often affected by poor circulation caused by edema. Edema refers to a clinical term for water retention, it’s the abnormal buildup of fluids under the skin, which can be noticed around the feet, ankles and lower legs.
Most Common Causes
The most common causes of edema are humid weather, sport injuries, surgery, pregnancy, varicose veins, or standing or sitting for long periods of time (on a plane, for example). There are also medical conditions that lead to edema.
How Compression Socks Help
Doctors often recommend patients with edema to wear compression socks because they prevent fluids from building up. These socks create pressure on legs that fight edema. The type of socks depends on the type of edema. Lymphedema, for example, requires the firmest socks to be treated effectively.
How long should you wear compression socks?
Your doctor can give you an estimate on how long you should wear your compression socks. Every few months you will meet with the doctor for an evaluation to decide of you still need the socks. However, sometimes, it’s required to wear socks for many months, or even till the rest of your life. If your edema is under control, if you have other treatments like diuretics and prescription pills, the duration of wearing the socks will be significantly lessened. However, if your veins have been damaged or they’re just weak and can’t prevent fluids from escaping, it can be dangerous to stop wearing socks. It’s better to wear compression socks for many years than endanger the health of your feet and legs by removing them early.
How to wear compression socks
If possible, put your socks on the moment you wake, after getting out of bed. Swelling is the lowest at the morning, so it will be easier for you to put on socks. Then sit on a chair that has a back. Hold the top of the sock and push your other arm through it and grab the toe. Pull the toe up. Place your toes in the toe of the sock, and then simply roll the sock over your foot. Don’t pull on the top of your compression socks, or they could tear.
In some cases, doctors can prescribe multiple socks to be worn at once. If you can’t put on your socks in the morning, do it after legs have been elevated for about 30 minutes. This also helps reduce swelling and ensure the tight fit that prevents fluid build-up.
Here’s What To Do Now…
If you suffer from edema, ask your doctor about whether compression socks are right for you and which type you should get. In addition to providing multiple benefits to everyone, compression socks are very helpful for pregnant ladies with edema, because other remedies for edema can’t be used during pregnancy.
Come to Caring Touch Medical to find more information about compression socks for edema and get the socks that will fit your individual needs. Click here to find our location closest to you.
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