Lymphedema Support Group

Lymphedema is a condition of localized fluid retention caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system (often referred to as the body's "second" circulatory system) collects and filters the interstitial fluid of the body. Lymphedema has been barely recognized as being a serious health problem; however, this is slowly changing due to education and awareness.

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Heart, Blood & Circulation
/ Lymphedema Support Group

Compression Socks?

okapi2
okapi2
Hi everyone. I have a muscle disease (polymyositis) and lately I have had really bad edema in my lower legs and ankles. It is extremely painful, I wake up in the morning feeling like my ankles are being crushed. My feet look like balloons. It interferes with my walking!

I was thinking compression socks may help me for now, but here's my problem: because of the muscle disease, I am too weak to put them on. Anyone dealt with this? Any ideas? I live with roommates and don't really want to ask them to put them on me...
deleted_user
deleted_user
HI! Is the swelling in your feet something new? I have no idea what polymyositis is so I can't help you with that. Sorry...Medical supply places sell flexible sock/stocking aids. Go to one of your local medical supply stores and you can get a catalog for free with thousands of products. You would be amazed at what they sell.
You have to be careful about the compression stockings and let a doctor write a prescription and be fitted with the proper measurements and compression strength.
Ask if you have any other questions. Anita
deleted_user
deleted_user
I was at Wal-Mart yesterday and they had a lightweight compression sock on the promo shelf near the checkout next to books. I didn't buy them yet, but I thought I would put it here for anyone who might want to try them , might be good for just light swelling.
deleted_user
deleted_user
hi, there are compression garments that use velcro to fasten. I purchased some from circaid that work. I wear tights over them to keep the velcro from grabbing and to disguise them when I
go out in public. They are medical devices and need dr approval and measurements etc but are easy to put on. Hope this helps.
mayanana
mayanana
I have the compression garments from Solaris like tereds mentioned. I have an inflexible ankle and found compression socks almost impossible to put on and then the socks were painful. These garments fasten with straps across the front that are very easy for me to put on. I'd highly recommend them.