There are many factors to consider. If you are able to reach your feet OK and don't have painful hand/elbow/shoulder joint then I would recommend being measured for a 20-30 mmHg compression hose, knee length. I would choose a good brand and style such as Sigvaris Opaque as they are a little easier to apply. An open toe allows for a toe sleeve to make applying easier. There are also other devices available at medical supply stores.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You can use 20-30 mm(Hg) knee or thigh high compression stockings for edema. You want to make sure you do not have significant arterial disease in legs since narrowed arteries have low pressure and can be compromised by too aggressive compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The stockings come in different strengths. The higher the number the more effective. However, the higher the number, the more uncomfortable to wear and the harder to put on. Knee high 10-20 are the weakest and least effective. 30-40 thigh high are very strong and effective. You can start with the weakest ones, and move up until your symptoms seem to respond. In other words, the weakest ones that work are most appropriate.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

The two most common compression pressures are 20-30mmHg and 30-40mmHg. The lower pressure is easy to apply and the higher is harder. The lower pressure is commonly used for spider and varicose veins and the higher for edema. You probably need the higher pressure, but if it is too difficult to apply then the lower pressure would be the next best.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

One should use at least a compression of 20-30 mm Hg. If the edema is quite pronounced, a compression of 30-40 mm Hg would be better. However a physician should make sure that you have perfectly normal pulses in your feet before using a compression of 30-40 mm Hg.

Published on Jul 11, 2012