I started wearing compression socks years ago when my cardiologist talked to me about venous insufficiency. I wear the light compressions (8/15) every day. They are comfortable, easier to put on than the higher compressions, and still get the job done on the veins in my legs. Happy legs make happy life.
@@ajharmiah2692 Walking. Lots of walking. I wear the compressions from when I wake up to when I go to bed. One problem I had with compressions was I hate my toes squeezed. The regular compressions (15/22) squeezed my toes so I went to a large size. Problem solved. However, the low compressions (8/15) I wear have a big enough foot so my toes are happy.
I have very large legs in its hard to find my size. I ordered a 5X in my issue is I'm not sure if I should order a 6X. How do I know which size would fit me properly. At the end of the day The socks starts hurting being too tight?
@@Stony-Hills I am not a medical professional so be sure and ask your doctor this question. I will tell you, from my own experience, compression socks should not hurt. The problem I had was finding compressions that did not squeeze my toes. I went to a larger size for regular OTC compressions so my toes wouldn't hurt and they were just a better fit. Had that not worked out, I would have gone up a size. What my nephologist pounded into my brain was the top elastic that holds up the socks should never leave harsh indentations in the legs. That happened, in my case, because the earlier compressions were too small. I have to have the tops of my compressions be between the little bony protrusion just below the kneecap and the kneecap to avoid that problem. Your doctor can explain that better. I have to keep my lower legs moving to keep circulation working as good as possible. It's just too hot to walk outside so I got recently got a stationary bike. Just like in walking, the leg movement while wearing compressions keep the blood going in the right direction. Talk this over with your doctor. Best of luck.
@@Stony-Hills Talk to your doctor about your options. I went to a larger size compressions because I hate my toes to be cramped. That being said, I had to find what was comfortable for me without compromising the reason for wearing the compressions.
Wore them for nearly 6 weeks after each knee replacement surgery. I hated them .Told my surgeon I was going to burn them after he released me. He just laughed. I still have them.😊
Paul is so funny! I was advised by physio therapist to wear one on my right leg when severe pain began for iliac femoral blockage. I got a pair of knee high and when my vascular surgeon saw me wearing it, he asked me to stop wearing them. He said they can cause other issues. So I stopped. He didn’t go into details but he said you should only wear them when they’re prescribed. I guess all Drs have their own opinion. He was Dr Peter Keuchler in Victoria BC. Wonderful surgeon. He retired and now I go to another surgeon in same office. 😊❤️🇨🇦
I've been diagnosed with chronic vein insufficiency after 9 years of reoccurring cellulitius on left leg (once on right leg this year). Picked up a bug underfoot from the sea or ground ( any dry skin or scratch let's a germ in, then your blood flow can't expel it easy). Prescribed 30-40 mmg below knee compression stockings - open toe, not closed toe ones as could lead to toe fungi and toes squashing. Use a donning device with extendable handles and wrist length grip gloves (not dishwashing gloves). It's a breeze and a 100% improvement for my life. Now I need to walk daily for health.
I not only wear compression socks when I fly (do not have a venous flow issue that I know of, just terribly swelling without them), but I am a long distance runner and wear them for my long runs and races. In addition to the blood flow benefit, they reduce recovery time, and minimize soreness both during and after the run. There are several running related compression sock brands that offer the compression (20-30mmHg) the docs discussed and some with a bit less at 15-20. They do have summer weight ones. Not cheap and, btw, harder to take off than put on sometimes, 🤣 but worth it..
Compression socks are definitely not cheap, but sometimes you can find them at TJ Max or even thrift stores. I’ve picked up new ones at Goodwill for under five dollars.
I had a big ankle surgery last year. Tendon and ligament repair plus arthroscopy to clean out the joints. I'm still wearing an open toed low compression stocking on the afftected foot. I expect it it will be my companion for life. The worst part for me is getting a sock on over it wothout causing a tiny roll on the edge of the stocking. I also wear soft, bamboo compression socks that breath nicely without promoting foot fungus.
Thanks for this video. I went to my local medical supplier to get my compression stockings. They wanted $78 a pair, so I wrote down the manufacture and type required. I then went on E-Bay and found the very same stockings from the same company where the price was $7-$14. Now I wear them 4 days out of 7 as the compression tends to hurt at the top, so I take a couple of days off. Other wise I wear them 24hours a day.
I've wore juzo commpression hose 30mm Hg for over 30 years for my left foot lymphedema. It makes a significant difference. My therapist told me once that our body likes symmetry so i wear one on my right lower leg too. I turn the knee high hose right side out and turn down half the hose and pull it over toes and ankle then pull it up all the way. Can do this in less than a minute. They make my legs feel so much better.
I’ve come to love my compression socks, after getting them to fight post surgery edema. I’m not wearing them right now because of the extreme heat and humidity here in southern Virginia. The idea right now is to wear as little as possible and that you can get away with.
Thank you for all the information, it's really helpful to know/understand the difference with over the counter or prescribed stockings. I would love to see a video on what causes spider veins and varicose veins and how once can prevent them if possible. Thanks again for your wonderful channel, love watching your videos!
Thanks for bringing this topic here! Not a commercial but my sincere recommendation: I've been using the compression socks from aZengear for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with the difference they've made. I started wearing them during my runs and noticed less muscle fatigue and quicker recovery times afterward. They’re comfortable, stay in place, and have just the right amount of compression. I’d definitely recommend giving them a try if you’re looking for something to help with circulation and overall comfort, whether you’re active or on your feet a lot during the day. So feel free to try!
I credit compression stockings for motivating me to do strength exercises. When I first tried putting them (by myself) I often strained my back muscles. So I started using resistance bands to "tune up" my back muscles and it's helped a lot. Some brands found on Amazon are better than others but any of them are better than nothing.... and cheaper.
I boost my circulation by doing leg press, hamstring curls, quad extension, abductors and adductors, and calf raises on leg day. Seems to be working well..@60yo 💪
Another option. If you experience back strain when pulling up the socks, I suggest to grab onto the sock as normal, but push out with your leg to force your foot into the sock. This helps me to reduce back strain when putting the socks on.
I worked in the hospital and had to put them on patients. It was hard at first but I got the hang of it. I grabbed the bottom- crunchy them and then sliding them up. I did wear regular gloves Docs. Today I wear them though I'm retired. You will notice your feet feeling good. I wear sometimes the ones that come up over your whole foot. Personally I like them.
I'd suggest a video of someone putting on their own stockings, not someone doing it for them. I used these as a fit person to recover from vascular surgery. I should wear at work while sitting all day. They're no picnic! Hopefully simple & complex advances will make these life savers easier so every sitting & standing worker (all) can use more easily. Thanks for what you do. I've used info from many of your videos & shared with others. You remind me of Bob & Brad the PTs videos. Great guys also.
I wore them for two weeks after each hip replacement. They were put on me before surgery and I wore them home, so they were quality socks from the hospital. I only took them off to bathe, then immediately put them back on.They kept my circulation moving well and I had no clotting or other venous problems. I would highly recommend them.
Thank you. Very good suggestion. Those gloves are like the ones I use when sewing quilts. Difficult to wear in summer, since I live in the high desert. Wish there could be some air conditioned socks.
I had a gob of lymp nodes removed from my groin and upper thigh due to melanoma and had to use compression stockings for a while to combate lymphoedema. Yeah, they're tough to get on but work great.
One brand that I ordered from Amazon had a silk shield that covered my foot. There was a tab at the end of the silk shield. As soon as I put the stocking on, then I would just slide the shield out. Works great.
I started with a DVT and PE which progressed into chronic venous ulcers in 2019. The issue with compression socks, if you have a venous ulcer, is that most of them cause pain over the wound bed. Also, socks are really difficult to get on by yourself. I buy and use women's knee highs to put on first. They only go as far as my ankle but make stretching other stockings on wayyy easier. Adjustable compression devices such as Compraflex are great for about 6 weeks until they get stretched out, but they hold moisture against the leg and therefore compound the problem. I compress at 50mmHg but need to decompress at night. I could write a book on this topic after 5 years of dressing changes every 12 hours to 3-days and countless forms of compression.
Excellent video. Thank you thank you thank you!!! I have low blood pressure in the morning and my cardiologist told me to wear these and drink water. But I haven't worn the stockings in our 85 degree heat!😢
85° F? Wow. That’s cool compared to our current Mid Atlantic summer! Sorry! Off topic! But it is too hot to wear compression socks! We’ve been in the high 90’s for weeks. It’s unbearable-people are dying, trees are dying, crops are dying…my tomatoes won’t set flowers…
There is a product you can buy from Juzo, called the Slippy Gator. Easiest way to put on the socks without help from others. I wear knee high and it works like a charm. Not sure if it’s as effective with thigh high socks.
I put on my compression socks the way I used to put on panty hose. Scrunch them down so I can put the toe on first and then slowly extend my leg, un-scrunching the sock as it goes up my leg, making sure it doesn't twist or get stuck on my heel.
A really easy way to put them on that i have learn't, use the bag that the stockings come in, put over your foot, then the stocking glides over the foot much easier, the bag can then be pulled out from the hole at the toe area, our hospital compression stockings have an opening where the toes are, as a Nurse, i have found this is the fastest, easiest way to put the stockings on our patients .
I was going to say the exact thing but decided to check to see if anyone else suggested it. I'm a retired RN/ICU. This is how we always put compression stockings on patients.
Thanks docs, you didn't mention toes vs toeless and the necessity to remove for sleeping. I had a second DVT last year and my Cardiologist wants me to wear compression sox for the next 1 1/2 years to try to avoid Post Thrombotic Syndrome. PS I am Leiden factor V.
Another great information session. I have peripheral neuropathy and also a hip that requires replacing. My question is should you consult with your physician first before using compression stockings, and also how do you judge what amount of compression to purchase and what length size?
I have tried many versions of compression stockings - from the expensive Jobst to the cheaper Amazon alternatives. First I'm obese, so I have to find them specifically for wide calves, and that's tough. But, each pair - expensive or cheaper - banded too tightly around my ankle. It caused a lot of pain and once the edema shifted enough for it to make a groove, there was no way to smooth them out. Then I tried compression SOCKS. The ones I'm using are by DoctorsSelect, but I suspect they're available from other sources as well. In many ways, they feel like the knee socks I wore as a kid. Since they were so easy to put on, I was concerned about how well they worked, but OMG, I had my edema in control for the first time in years. (I started with these maybe 3 months ago or a bit longer). A hand-sized red, blistered patch of skin on my left front calf is no longer red and the blistering is greatly reduced. The snugger section around my ankle has 'ribs' in the knitting, and I think that's what keeps them from creating the tourniquet around my ankle. I can wear them all day without pain. You mentioned heat - and yeah, that's the toughest part. I can't say that I know for sure if they're warmer than standard stockings because I could never leave those on all day in the hot months. But yeah - 90 degrees outside and I'm hot in socks and long pants. I'm so happy with the state of my calves, though, I'm willing to do it. And I'll be fair, I'm not a "great outdoorsy" type anyway. 🤣
Thanks. compression stockings have saved my bacon as varicosity is familial...my Mom and Great Uncle had devilish leg ulcers. Been wearing them for over 20 years. Doc prescibed 20 - 30 mm, but I find it a hasstle. So I save 3 pair of the higher compression ones for travel, hiking etc. and use 15 - 20 mm for most days. As soon as I slide them down, poof, the veins balloon.. This time of year the top backs get annoying as they cause irritation on dry skin. Summer is a hastle but at age 78, and older man I've finally overcome the goofiness of wearing shorts and knee-high stockings on me girlish legs.
I wear 20/30 compression stockings I had an ultrasound for valve issues in the veins the stockings stop edema which I had, there are exercises to also reduce edema
I bought a wire contraption online that holds them open so you can get your foot in, and then you can work them up your leg using the gloves to help. They're still kind of miserable and they're painfully tight at the top, just under the knee. Like, REALLY painful. I finally gave up and cut through the cuff band, which makes them more comfortable but will shorten their useful life as the slit I made will probably enlarge.
I have worn non-medical grade compression pantyhose (8-15mm) and found it to be beneficial. I have since switched to regular support pantyhose and found it to be as effective and much cheaper. However, I have a very mild case of varicose and spider veins.
Gee, why didn't we see one of you two create a show & tell? 🙂 If nothing else, you could add it to your blooper reels. Thanks for the info. Just bought the OTC kind yesterday.
Are they too tight when they leave an indentation around the thighs or below kneecap when you take them off… lasting for several hours after removing them ?
Hey Paul and Brad just wondering could you segment on medications ie lyrica gabapentin venlafaxine and other to see how dangerous they are on the enzymes on the liver .liver disease or kidney disease and anti inflammatories thanks guys for the videos😀👍
How long should an individual pair of 20-30 mmHg compression stockings last if worn everyday? If you have a chance, show a video or instructions on how an individual puts their own stockings on. I’ve never had a partner to put mine on!!!
Long term walking on hard concrete led to over sized veins I guess safe to wear the black 25 bucks hose the cat put a run in one of them it’s easy to put them on after some practice
The VA gave me a metal frame to use that helps pull the socks up. I only wear calf high socks. The VA also provided me with custom socks with zippers on the the side. The problem is that if my ankles are swollen, neither me nor my wife can zip them.
I developed a DVT while flying to Germany over 20 years ago (economy class syndrome). The DVT progressed to a PE, and I have worn medical grade 30-40 mmHg ever since. However, I wear knee high, open toe stockings, which I find much more comfortable and much easier to donn. 20 years ago, studies supported 85 to 90% of blood was returned below the knee. Haven't checked recently. Opened toe allows use of a "slippy" to simplify donning. Unfortunately, the PE bought me lifetime anticoagulation, as well!
I never noticed that they helped the swelling in my legs. The spandex in the sock made the top of my foot itch. I tried cotton, but the compression wasn't very strong. I also felt my toes being squeezed uncomfortably in my shoes so bought the toeless, which was better. To get them on, I just scrunch up the full sock all the way down to the toes, stick my toes in, and start pulling up from the toe, working the material over the foot, up the ankles, up the leg. Easy for me but would be difficult for someone with limited dexterity or arm muscles.
They’re extremely hard to put on. I would love to wear some as since my mastectomy 3 weeks ago my upper feet and lower ankles are edemic. I just can’t get them on.I’ll try some zippered ones like my husband had.
I truly dislike my compression socks, which I use primarily on my left leg due to a DVT I had many years ago. But every time I’ve decided not to wear it, which isn’t often, my whole leg aches by evening, and it has swollen some, too. Hard to believe how well they work.
Is it a good idea to take it upon oneself to buy compression stockings and use them if we/our partner (65 yrs) stands a lot or sits a lot? Thoughts please?
If you spend too long on your feet for a period of years, there comes a time your feet will start swelling along with your lower legs If the damage is already done, there may not be much you can do about it Compression socks may help some people, but also staying off your feet and putting your legs up also helps Of course you can also do prevention by not spending much time on your feet and keeping your legs up when possible
I have chronic slower leg wounds from iv drug use. I’ve been going to a burn clinic for treatment. They have only given me santyl collagenese and silver sulfadiazine as treatment. There has been no improvement in the wounds from their treatment. Idk what to do. Someone suggested I use compression on my legs so I wrapped my legs with bandage rolls from one to ankle and I noticed reduction in pain that i usually have in the mornings when waking up. Any suggestions as to what to do. I’m going to try to go to an actual wound clinic instead of the burn clinic at cook county hospital.
I wonder if wearing compression socks through the night is advised. How many hours a day is recommended? They have been very useful for me to wear during flight.
Just the info I needed ty! Now, is there a brand of donning gloves to put the socks on with you reccomend? I looked at Roya but they are almost impossible to get in larges on their site or Amazon. A place to uy the lighter socks would be helpful also, I paid 25+ on a surgical site.
My solution is to wear full-length compression stockings that are not too strong, and over them short compression socks that just cover my foot & ankle and leave my toes free. I buy these from Amazon, and always make sure to get them from a seller who offers Free Returns. Often such socks cut in too tightly at toes or ankle and have to go back, they would do more harm than good. Sometimes I can get an idea looking at the photos on the ad. whether the socks are tight on the ankle. Finding the right pair for you is a hassle, but if ever I don't wear mine, I notice a huge difference - for the worse. Good luck!
I have three different kinds of socks one is open toe mediven and the closed toe for mediven, which both are knee and thigh high. Then I have jobst activewear compression socks that look like regular socks in knee high from the orthodontic place I get mine. I wear my jobst more than the mediven knee high. I think it's because of the feeling of the socks. The closed toe hurts the left big toe and the open toes hurt my bunions. I wear them well I work otherwise when I'm home I don't wear them at all.
Just to advise folks that gave weak or arthritic hands- there are aids you can buy online that make getting the medical grade socks on MUCH easier! I do not have any problems with my hands but I syill found it very fifficult to put on my husbands socks for him - even with use if rubber gloves
I recently wore compression socks, but after recent Doppler studies, I am now out of range for socks, and I need to see a specialist I have terrible pains in my legs and have now developed Venous eczema. What sort of treatment can I expect? I do not have Varicose veins, but i do have a lot of swelling in my lower legs
I'm not sure how the doctors feel, but there are compression items on the market that are not socks. I have two that work almost the same way. You open it up, lay it on the bed, lay your leg on it, and then starting at the ankle, you pull the stretchable compression strap and velcro it. Then going up the leg, do the next one, and the next, etc. There are maybe 10 straps and you make them tight at the ankle and a little bit loser as you go up to compress and allow blood flow, just like the graduated compression socks.
I have lymphedema and the wraps are what I use too. There is a sock liner that goes on first (no compression in the liner) then the wrap over the liner. I haven't been able to accomplish this on my own, so my husband was roped into doing it for me. I can remove them on my own but Im too thick to reach there to get them on. I should say thick and stiff...at 70 there isnt anything that moves like it used to.
Imo thigh-high are healthier, but also hotter and more hassle to don and doff. I wear them and I have to remember to pull them up each time after going to the loo. By contrast, the knee-high are easier to adjust anytime anywhere and if worn with shorts look more normal and leave a gap for the cool air to reach you. If, like me, you are going to be wearing these for life, you have to find socks / stockings that are acceptable to you. Good luck!
6 years of wearing socks on left leg as advised by vascular consultant following DVT. Leg Aches and swells if I don’t wear it, mastered fitting and they really work, you feel uncomfortable without them. Would like to hear more about comparisons between medical grade and sports compression socks - can I use sports compression socks? Better colours and street cred when wearing shorts.
![Are Compression Socks Worth It? [How to Fix Swollen Ankles & Feet!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/CEQSEstit1M/mqdefault.jpg)
I used to put these on my father every morning and counted it as my aerobic exercise.😆
😂❤️
@@teresapaskell5459 🫶🏼
Same 😆💜
I started wearing compression socks years ago when my cardiologist talked to me about venous insufficiency. I wear the light compressions (8/15) every day. They are comfortable, easier to put on than the higher compressions, and still get the job done on the veins in my legs. Happy legs make happy life.
Did your cardiologist recommend anything else? Like diet oR excercise as some examples?
@@ajharmiah2692 Walking. Lots of walking. I wear the compressions from when I wake up to when I go to bed. One problem I had with compressions was I hate my toes squeezed. The regular compressions (15/22) squeezed my toes so I went to a large size. Problem solved. However, the low compressions (8/15) I wear have a big enough foot so my toes are happy.
I have very large legs in its hard to find my size. I ordered a 5X in my issue is I'm not sure if I should order a 6X. How do I know which size would fit me properly. At the end of the day The socks starts hurting being too tight?
@@Stony-Hills I am not a medical professional so be sure and ask your doctor this question. I will tell you, from my own experience, compression socks should not hurt. The problem I had was finding compressions that did not squeeze my toes. I went to a larger size for regular OTC compressions so my toes wouldn't hurt and they were just a better fit. Had that not worked out, I would have gone up a size.
What my nephologist pounded into my brain was the top elastic that holds up the socks should never leave harsh indentations in the legs. That happened, in my case, because the earlier compressions were too small. I have to have the tops of my compressions be between the little bony protrusion just below the kneecap and the kneecap to avoid that problem. Your doctor can explain that better.
I have to keep my lower legs moving to keep circulation working as good as possible. It's just too hot to walk outside so I got recently got a stationary bike. Just like in walking, the leg movement while wearing compressions keep the blood going in the right direction. Talk this over with your doctor. Best of luck.
@@Stony-Hills Talk to your doctor about your options. I went to a larger size compressions because I hate my toes to be cramped. That being said, I had to find what was comfortable for me without compromising the reason for wearing the compressions.
Wore them for nearly 6 weeks after each knee replacement surgery. I hated them .Told my surgeon I was going to burn them after he released me. He just laughed. I still have them.😊
Try Wellow
Paul is so funny! I was advised by physio therapist to wear one on my right leg when severe pain began for iliac femoral blockage. I got a pair of knee high and when my vascular surgeon saw me wearing it, he asked me to stop wearing them. He said they can cause other issues. So I stopped. He didn’t go into details but he said you should only wear them when they’re prescribed. I guess all Drs have their own opinion. He was Dr Peter Keuchler in Victoria BC. Wonderful surgeon. He retired and now I go to another surgeon in same office. 😊❤️🇨🇦
I've been diagnosed with chronic vein insufficiency after 9 years of reoccurring cellulitius on left leg (once on right leg this year). Picked up a bug underfoot from the sea or ground ( any dry skin or scratch let's a germ in, then your blood flow can't expel it easy). Prescribed 30-40 mmg below knee compression stockings - open toe, not closed toe ones as could lead to toe fungi and toes squashing. Use a donning device with extendable handles and wrist length grip gloves (not dishwashing gloves). It's a breeze and a 100% improvement for my life. Now I need to walk daily for health.
I not only wear compression socks when I fly (do not have a venous flow issue that I know of, just terribly swelling without them), but I am a long distance runner and wear them for my long runs and races. In addition to the blood flow benefit, they reduce recovery time, and minimize soreness both during and after the run. There are several running related compression sock brands that offer the compression (20-30mmHg) the docs discussed and some with a bit less at 15-20. They do have summer weight ones. Not cheap and, btw, harder to take off than put on sometimes, 🤣 but worth it..
Compression socks are definitely not cheap, but sometimes you can find them at TJ Max or even thrift stores. I’ve picked up new ones at Goodwill for under five dollars.
I had a big ankle surgery last year. Tendon and ligament repair plus arthroscopy to clean out the joints. I'm still wearing an open toed low compression stocking on the afftected foot. I expect it it will be my companion for life. The worst part for me is getting a sock on over it wothout causing a tiny roll on the edge of the stocking. I also wear soft, bamboo compression socks that breath nicely without promoting foot fungus.
Thanks for this video. I went to my local medical supplier to get my compression stockings. They wanted $78 a pair, so I wrote down the manufacture and type required. I then went on E-Bay and found the very same stockings from the same company where the price was $7-$14. Now I wear them 4 days out of 7 as the compression tends to hurt at the top, so I take a couple of days off. Other wise I wear them 24hours a day.
I've wore juzo commpression hose 30mm Hg for over 30 years for my left foot lymphedema. It makes a significant difference. My therapist told me once that our body likes symmetry so i wear one on my right lower leg too. I turn the knee high hose right side out and turn down half the hose and pull it over toes and ankle then pull it up all the way. Can do this in less than a minute. They make my legs feel so much better.
Dr Chan looks like she doesn't trust either one of you - not with your surgery - but with your medical jokes! Smart doctor.😁
😂
Haha
I’ve come to love my compression socks, after getting them to fight post surgery edema. I’m not wearing them right now because of the extreme heat and humidity here in southern Virginia. The idea right now is to wear as little as possible and that you can get away with.
Thank you for all the information, it's really helpful to know/understand the difference with over the counter or prescribed stockings. I would love to see a video on what causes spider veins and varicose veins and how once can prevent them if possible. Thanks again for your wonderful channel, love watching your videos!
Thanks for bringing this topic here! Not a commercial but my sincere recommendation: I've been using the compression socks from aZengear for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with the difference they've made. I started wearing them during my runs and noticed less muscle fatigue and quicker recovery times afterward. They’re comfortable, stay in place, and have just the right amount of compression. I’d definitely recommend giving them a try if you’re looking for something to help with circulation and overall comfort, whether you’re active or on your feet a lot during the day. So feel free to try!
Due to mobility issues, I was unable to put them on. I purchased a “stocking donner” and that made all the difference.
I credit compression stockings for motivating me to do strength exercises.
When I first tried putting them (by myself) I often strained my back muscles. So I started using resistance bands to "tune up" my back muscles and it's helped a lot.
Some brands found on Amazon are better than others but any of them are better than nothing.... and cheaper.
I boost my circulation by doing leg press, hamstring curls, quad extension, abductors and adductors, and calf raises on leg day. Seems to be working well..@60yo 💪
Thank you for the exercise ideas. I have bad circulation. So this is super helpful.
@@dianemanson7756 you're welcome 😊
Another option. If you experience back strain when pulling up the socks, I suggest to grab onto the sock as normal, but push out with your leg to force your foot into the sock. This helps me to reduce back strain when putting the socks on.
I worked in the hospital and had to put them on patients. It was hard at first but I got the hang of it. I grabbed the bottom- crunchy them and then sliding them up. I did wear regular gloves Docs. Today I wear them though I'm retired. You will notice your feet feeling good. I wear sometimes the ones that come up over your whole foot. Personally I like them.
I wear the over the counter and they really help.
I have found Alps Prosthetic Fitting Lotion helpful for sliding over the heel portion of the stockings. I also use the gloves.
I'd suggest a video of someone putting on their own stockings, not someone doing it for them. I used these as a fit person to recover from vascular surgery. I should wear at work while sitting all day. They're no picnic!
Hopefully simple & complex advances will make these life savers easier so every sitting & standing worker (all) can use more easily.
Thanks for what you do. I've used info from many of your videos & shared with others.
You remind me of Bob & Brad the PTs videos. Great guys also.
I wore them for two weeks after each hip replacement. They were put on me before surgery and I wore them home, so they were quality socks from the hospital. I only took them off to bathe, then immediately put them back on.They kept my circulation moving well and I had no clotting or other venous problems. I would highly recommend them.
Thank you. Very good suggestion. Those gloves are like the ones I use when sewing quilts. Difficult to wear in summer, since I live in the high desert. Wish there could be some air conditioned socks.
Always wore a OVTC compression sock as worked on my feet 45 years but still have varicose veins but would and still wear them but now just knee high 😊
I had a gob of lymp nodes removed from my groin and upper thigh due to melanoma and had to use compression stockings for a while to combate lymphoedema. Yeah, they're tough to get on but work great.
One brand that I ordered from Amazon had a silk shield that covered my foot. There was a tab at the end of the silk shield. As soon as I put the stocking on, then I would just slide the shield out. Works great.
I started with a DVT and PE which progressed into chronic venous ulcers in 2019. The issue with compression socks, if you have a venous ulcer, is that most of them cause pain over the wound bed. Also, socks are really difficult to get on by yourself. I buy and use women's knee highs to put on first. They only go as far as my ankle but make stretching other stockings on wayyy easier. Adjustable compression devices such as Compraflex are great for about 6 weeks until they get stretched out, but they hold moisture against the leg and therefore compound the problem. I compress at 50mmHg but need to decompress at night. I could write a book on this topic after 5 years of dressing changes every 12 hours to 3-days and countless forms of compression.
Does pe stand for pulmonary embolism? Also what are thevnatural ways to manage or reverse this?
@@ajharmiah2692 Yes, PE means Pulmonary embolism. Your Doctor would likely prescribe a blood thinner medication such as Xarelto.
Excellent video. Thank you thank you thank you!!! I have low blood pressure in the morning and my cardiologist told me to wear these and drink water. But I haven't worn the stockings in our 85 degree heat!😢
85° F? Wow. That’s cool compared to our current Mid Atlantic summer! Sorry! Off topic! But it is too hot to wear compression socks! We’ve been in the high 90’s for weeks. It’s unbearable-people are dying, trees are dying, crops are dying…my tomatoes won’t set flowers…
There is a product you can buy from Juzo, called the Slippy Gator. Easiest way to put on the socks without help from others. I wear knee high and it works like a charm. Not sure if it’s as effective with thigh high socks.
When temperatures are high, my doctor recommended Merino wool compression socks. Thet are very comfortable and cool when it is hot.
I put on my compression socks the way I used to put on panty hose. Scrunch them down so I can put the toe on first and then slowly extend my leg, un-scrunching the sock as it goes up my leg, making sure it doesn't twist or get stuck on my heel.
A really easy way to put them on that i have learn't, use the bag that the stockings come in, put over your foot, then the stocking glides over the foot much easier, the bag can then be pulled out from the hole at the toe area, our hospital compression stockings have an opening where the toes are, as a Nurse, i have found this is the fastest, easiest way to put the stockings on our patients .
I was going to say the exact thing but decided to check to see if anyone else suggested it. I'm a retired RN/ICU. This is how we always put compression stockings on patients.
They are great!! Wear them when I cycle especially in Gravel races and always on the plane when traveling! At age 69 I love the cool colors!!😂
This is helpful, thank you!
Thanks docs, you didn't mention toes vs toeless and the necessity to remove for sleeping. I had a second DVT last year and my Cardiologist wants me to wear compression sox for the next 1 1/2 years to try to avoid Post Thrombotic Syndrome. PS I am Leiden factor V.
Put on each other’s compression socks, night guards and cpaps. “It’s a date!” 🤣
Wasn’t that hilarious?! They are a hoot! 😅
Another great information session. I have peripheral neuropathy and also a hip that requires replacing. My question is should you consult with your physician first before using compression stockings, and also how do you judge what amount of compression to purchase and what length size?
Put some talc on your feet and legs before putting the compression socks on. This will help the socks glide on more easily.
Wearing washing up gloves will give a better grip
Please find more reasons to have Dr. Chan on!
There are several sock aids on the market. A really good one is by Jobst.
I have tried many versions of compression stockings - from the expensive Jobst to the cheaper Amazon alternatives. First I'm obese, so I have to find them specifically for wide calves, and that's tough. But, each pair - expensive or cheaper - banded too tightly around my ankle. It caused a lot of pain and once the edema shifted enough for it to make a groove, there was no way to smooth them out.
Then I tried compression SOCKS. The ones I'm using are by DoctorsSelect, but I suspect they're available from other sources as well. In many ways, they feel like the knee socks I wore as a kid. Since they were so easy to put on, I was concerned about how well they worked, but OMG, I had my edema in control for the first time in years. (I started with these maybe 3 months ago or a bit longer). A hand-sized red, blistered patch of skin on my left front calf is no longer red and the blistering is greatly reduced. The snugger section around my ankle has 'ribs' in the knitting, and I think that's what keeps them from creating the tourniquet around my ankle. I can wear them all day without pain.
You mentioned heat - and yeah, that's the toughest part. I can't say that I know for sure if they're warmer than standard stockings because I could never leave those on all day in the hot months. But yeah - 90 degrees outside and I'm hot in socks and long pants. I'm so happy with the state of my calves, though, I'm willing to do it. And I'll be fair, I'm not a "great outdoorsy" type anyway. 🤣
Very timely!
Thanks. compression stockings have saved my bacon as varicosity is familial...my Mom and Great Uncle had devilish leg ulcers. Been wearing them for over 20 years. Doc prescibed 20 - 30 mm, but I find it a hasstle. So I save 3 pair of the higher compression ones for travel, hiking etc. and use 15 - 20 mm for most days. As soon as I slide them down, poof, the veins balloon.. This time of year the top backs get annoying as they cause irritation on dry skin. Summer is a hastle but at age 78, and older man I've finally overcome the goofiness of wearing shorts and knee-high stockings on me girlish legs.
I wear 20/30 compression stockings I had an ultrasound for valve issues in the veins the stockings stop edema which I had, there are exercises to also reduce edema
I bought a wire contraption online that holds them open so you can get your foot in, and then you can work them up your leg using the gloves to help. They're still kind of miserable and they're painfully tight at the top, just under the knee. Like, REALLY painful. I finally gave up and cut through the cuff band, which makes them more comfortable but will shorten their useful life as the slit I made will probably enlarge.
The Open toe ones act like a tourniquet at the lower end. Should have addressed if can't be used at night.
Light powder on your leg helps a lot.
I have worn non-medical grade compression pantyhose (8-15mm) and found it to be beneficial. I have since switched to regular support pantyhose and found it to be as effective and much cheaper. However, I have a very mild case of varicose and spider veins.
Speedos and compression socks at the beach...lol. I think Speedos may qualify as a compression stocking as well!
Gee, why didn't we see one of you two create a show & tell? 🙂 If nothing else, you could add it to your blooper reels. Thanks for the info. Just bought the OTC kind yesterday.
Are they too tight when they leave an indentation around the thighs or below kneecap when you take them off… lasting for several hours after removing them ?
i were them every day since i contracted tic bourn .
Hey Paul and Brad just wondering could you segment on medications ie lyrica gabapentin venlafaxine and other to see how dangerous they are on the enzymes on the liver .liver disease or kidney disease and anti inflammatories thanks guys for the videos😀👍
How long should an individual pair of 20-30 mmHg compression stockings last if worn everyday? If you have a chance, show a video or instructions on how an individual puts their own stockings on. I’ve never had a partner to put mine on!!!
Long term walking on hard concrete led to over sized veins I guess safe to wear the black 25 bucks hose the cat put a run in one of them it’s easy to put them on after some practice
They make a real difference when I'm standing 4 hrs at the register
For sure
after getting them on the first time I just roll them up down to the ankle and they go on way better in the morning
They make compression sleeves which you can wear w sandals.
Nice
In the US, the higher compression are $90/pr. The lower compression are >$20 pr.
I will watch every video u make. They r much appreciated. Just fyi....check your audio pls. Hard to hear u in last few vids and esp this one
The VA gave me a metal frame to use that helps pull the socks up. I only wear calf high socks. The VA also provided me with custom socks with zippers on the the side. The problem is that if my ankles are swollen, neither me nor my wife can zip them.
Can they be worn swimming?
Thank you my father in law where compresión socks and he has a person that puts it on and takes off
I developed a DVT while flying to Germany over 20 years ago (economy class syndrome). The DVT progressed to a PE, and I have worn medical grade 30-40 mmHg ever since. However, I wear knee high, open toe stockings, which I find much more comfortable and much easier to donn. 20 years ago, studies supported 85 to 90% of blood was returned below the knee. Haven't checked recently. Opened toe allows use of a "slippy" to simplify donning. Unfortunately, the PE bought me lifetime anticoagulation, as well!
Can you talk about lymphedema
I never noticed that they helped the swelling in my legs. The spandex in the sock made the top of my foot itch. I tried cotton, but the compression wasn't very strong. I also felt my toes being squeezed uncomfortably in my shoes so bought the toeless, which was better. To get them on, I just scrunch up the full sock all the way down to the toes, stick my toes in, and start pulling up from the toe, working the material over the foot, up the ankles, up the leg. Easy for me but would be difficult for someone with limited dexterity or arm muscles.
What about Athletes’ Foot? Do these increase the risk or problems from that? Thanks!
Not if you change them daily
Use the ones with open toes.
Are the good for long airline flights ?
Yes!
They’re extremely hard to put on. I would love to wear some as since my mastectomy 3 weeks ago my upper feet and lower ankles are edemic. I just can’t get them on.I’ll try some zippered ones like my husband had.
I truly dislike my compression socks, which I use primarily on my left leg due to a DVT I had many years ago. But every time I’ve decided not to wear it, which isn’t often, my whole leg aches by evening, and it has swollen some, too. Hard to believe how well they work.
Ditto DVT and aches, so wear mine every day.
Where does one buy compression socks?
Can I wear them when I exercise?
wearing my mediven for years, wish they would not be so expensive .
Is it a good idea to take it upon oneself to buy compression stockings and use them if we/our partner (65 yrs) stands a lot or sits a lot? Thoughts please?
If you spend too long on your feet for a period of years, there comes a time your feet will start swelling along with your lower legs
If the damage is already done, there may not be much you can do about it
Compression socks may help some people, but also staying off your feet and putting your legs up also helps
Of course you can also do prevention by not spending much time on your feet and keeping your legs up when possible
I have chronic slower leg wounds from iv drug use. I’ve been going to a burn clinic for treatment. They have only given me santyl collagenese and silver sulfadiazine as treatment. There has been no improvement in the wounds from their treatment. Idk what to do. Someone suggested I use compression on my legs so I wrapped my legs with bandage rolls from one to ankle and I noticed reduction in pain that i usually have in the mornings when waking up. Any suggestions as to what to do. I’m going to try to go to an actual wound clinic instead of the burn clinic at cook county hospital.
Do compression socks help with fluid retention?
Mercury? Is that safe?
Do they work for leg day at the gym?
👍. Are there any contraindications for wearing compression socks?
Yes there are - later stages of chronic arterial insufficiency, hart insuficiency among some of them, joint pain etc
Anybody know about the best cotton compression socks brand?
I wonder if wearing compression socks through the night is advised. How many hours a day is recommended?
They have been very useful for me to wear during flight.
How about loose socks or “diabetic socks” … what kind of schemers would these kind of socks be recommended for ?
Curious if wearing compression socks will prevent a DVT from forming in the legs.
Should I wear them to and from work equaling like 10 hours a day or more?
Just the info I needed ty! Now, is there a brand of donning gloves to put the socks on with you reccomend? I looked at Roya but they are almost impossible to get in larges on their site or Amazon. A place to uy the lighter socks would be helpful also, I paid 25+ on a surgical site.
I have to find a pair that provides comprehensive around the ankle and foot. ❤
My solution is to wear full-length compression stockings that are not too strong, and over them short compression socks that just cover my foot & ankle and leave my toes free. I buy these from Amazon, and always make sure to get them from a seller who offers Free Returns. Often such socks cut in too tightly at toes or ankle and have to go back, they would do more harm than good. Sometimes I can get an idea looking at the photos on the ad. whether the socks are tight on the ankle. Finding the right pair for you is a hassle, but if ever I don't wear mine, I notice a huge difference - for the worse. Good luck!
I cannot wear the compression socks with the feet. I currently wear ankle to the knee. Would be ankle to the thigh provide more benefits?
These guys are funny
I have three different kinds of socks one is open toe mediven and the closed toe for mediven, which both are knee and thigh high. Then I have jobst activewear compression socks that look like regular socks in knee high from the orthodontic place I get mine. I wear my jobst more than the mediven knee high. I think it's because of the feeling of the socks. The closed toe hurts the left big toe and the open toes hurt my bunions. I wear them well I work otherwise when I'm home I don't wear them at all.
Do you keep them on all day? Do you sleep with them on?
no do not sleep. 12 hrs on, 12 hrs off.
Remove when retiring to bed and put on first thing when rising.
@@santamonicajane Awesome! Thank you so much.
@@davidrenz5886 Thank you!❤️
Just to advise folks that gave weak or arthritic hands- there are aids you can buy online that make getting the medical grade socks on MUCH easier! I do not have any problems with my hands but I syill found it very fifficult to put on my husbands socks for him - even with use if rubber gloves
I recently wore compression socks, but after recent Doppler studies, I am now out of range for socks, and I need to see a specialist I have terrible pains in my legs and have now developed Venous eczema. What sort of treatment can I expect? I do not have Varicose veins, but i do have a lot of swelling in my lower legs
I'm not sure how the doctors feel, but there are compression items on the market that are not socks. I have two that work almost the same way. You open it up, lay it on the bed, lay your leg on it, and then starting at the ankle, you pull the stretchable compression strap and velcro it. Then going up the leg, do the next one, and the next, etc. There are maybe 10 straps and you make them tight at the ankle and a little bit loser as you go up to compress and allow blood flow, just like the graduated compression socks.
I have lymphedema and the wraps are what I use too. There is a sock liner that goes on first (no compression in the liner) then the wrap over the liner. I haven't been able to accomplish this on my own, so my husband was roped into doing it for me. I can remove them on my own but Im too thick to reach there to get them on. I should say thick and stiff...at 70 there isnt anything that moves like it used to.
What about if I mostly sit? Is it bad to wear compression socks unless moving around?
I wear a calf compression when I work out.
Knee or thigh length? How do you know??
Imo thigh-high are healthier, but also hotter and more hassle to don and doff. I wear them and I have to remember to pull them up each time after going to the loo. By contrast, the knee-high are easier to adjust anytime anywhere and if worn with shorts look more normal and leave a gap for the cool air to reach you. If, like me, you are going to be wearing these for life, you have to find socks / stockings that are acceptable to you. Good luck!
Since I have an arthritic left hip I have ti lay on my back to get the sock over my little toe
I don’t have fat legs, does that matter?
Do they relieve the pain of claudication?
6 years of wearing socks on left leg as advised by vascular consultant following DVT. Leg Aches and swells if I don’t wear it, mastered fitting and they really work, you feel uncomfortable without them. Would like to hear more about comparisons between medical grade and sports compression socks - can I use sports compression socks? Better colours and street cred when wearing shorts.