Last week, we shared a blog post about the great reasons to start wearing compression socks. To recap: they could help protect you from deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. Plus, they can slow the progression of vein disease. And today, more than ever, they come in lots of cute styles! So now that you have the “why” when it comes to compression stockings, we’d like to address the “how.” After all, it can sometimes be tricky to work these tightly-fitted compression socks onto your legs. But first, let’s examine 5 early warning signs of deep vein thrombosis.
DVT Warning Signals to Watch For
Wearing compression socks can help prevent DVT. Here are the signs to look for, that can tell you you’re in danger for deep vein thrombosis.
- Cramps or throbbing pain in one leg, probably in the thigh or calf.
- One leg displays swelling.
- The skin around the sore spot on your leg may be warm to the touch.
- That skin may also turn red or darken.
- Swollen veins that are noticeably hard to the touch.
Got any of these symptoms? We may recommend compression therapy. And, if that’s the case, you’ll need to know the right way to put on compression socks. So we hope this guide can help ease this somewhat complex process.
How to Put on Compression Socks: A Step by Step Guide
First of all, it’s important to remember that compression stockings aren’t like typical pantyhose. So forget the usual
ways you pull on stockings. Before putting on compression stockings, you should take off any jewelry and dry your legs completely. Now you’re ready to begin application.
Step 1: Whatever you do, don’t bunch up the feet of your stockings. This would only concentrate all that pressure in one small area, making it harder to pull your stockings into place. Instead, reach your hand down and through your stocking, and grab hold of the heel. Keep hold of the heel and turn your stocking inside out. This will create a little pocket for your foot!
Step 2: Put your toes in the foot pocket you just created. Pull the stocking up to your heel, then grasp the top layer of fabric, right near the middle of your foot.
Step 3: Keeping hold of the fabric, lift the stocking over your heel and pull upwards until your heel is completely covered.
Step 4: Now, use both hands to grasp the remaining loose fabric. Pull it gently up over your calf. Going slowly, continue sliding the stocking upwards, until it rests over your knee. Smooth any wrinkles, making sure the stockings are laying properly in place.
Step 5: Repeat on other side, then get dressed and go. You’re ready to start your day with a valuable tool to support your vein health!
Did you know that medical compression socks actually require a prescription to make sure you get the right amount of pressure? Our Houston area vein specialists are here to help you find the right pair to protect your circulation and prevent dangerous clots. So schedule an appointment at one of our Houston area clinics today!
Sources: Sockwell USA, The Mayo Clinic