Compression stockings: "natural treatment" for ET complications?

As someone who was on my feet a lot as a teacher, or sitting in one place for long periods as a writer, I found compression stockings made my legs feel less tired. As an ET patient, I've since moved on to medical grade compression socks to help prevent prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be a complication for some of us with ET.

The Centers for Disease Control has lots of information on DVT along with general guidelines about compression stockings. And here are some Canadian guys who explain compression stockings specifically!

But before you head off to your medical supply store, read the rest of this post!

First, talk to your doctor! My GP recommended light compression stockings years ago to prevent leg fatigue during work hours. They worked pretty well, but lately I noticed they were cutting deep grooves at the top of the cuff, just below my knees, which kind of defeats the circulation benefits of the compression socks. Also ask your doctor what hours during the day you should wear them. Some doctors recommend putting them on in the morning and taking them off before bed. Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had a DVT.

Get the right compression. Your doctor will help you here. If you have diabetes or other health issues, only light compression might be advised--or perhaps none at all. However, as the video notes, there are light, moderate, and firm compression stockings. Moderate compression is usually recommended for those who want to prevent clots or who are traveling long distances, and that's what my doc suggested. Compression is measured in mmHG (a fancy way to indicate how much pressure the socks put on your legs):

Light compression: 8-15 mmHG

Moderate compression: 15-20 mmHG

Firm compression: 20-30 mmHG

Get a prescription if your insurance pays for compression hose. Medical grade compression stockings aren't cheap, but you can usually find a style that won't constrict around the tops. Mine cost about $38 per pair (highest I've seen are $100 per pair) So a prescription can save you money if your insurance or national health service will pay for a certain number of stockings per year. If you do pay out of pocket, a good pair of compression hose is probably still cheaper than dealing with a blood clot.

Decide on length. There are knee-highs, over-the-knee, and pantyhose lengths for both men and women. I promised myself never to wear pantyhose again in this lifetime, and I find the knee highs easier to get in and out of than over-the-knee lengths. You can also get footless stockings with a stirrup band to keep them in place. Some people prefer these in hot weather. 

Color and fabric content is completely up to you. Most come in black, beige, and white. Sometimes you have a choice of colors and prints as well as fabric content. Mine are synthetic, and I find them breathable and comfortable. Just be sure that, if you are looking for stockings on your own, you search for those that say "medical grade" and make sure you have the right compression.

Measure carefully! If you get a prescription for compression socks, the medical supply tech can measure you. You can also do the measurements yourself, but be sure to follow directions carefully. It may help to use a mirror or have someone help you. The ankle part can be a little tricky, so if you are doing measurements yourself, make sure you look at the little pictures on the measuring chart. For knee-high stockings like mine, you will need to measure ankle and calf. You should take measurements in both legs to make sure they are the same size. Take measurements when you first get out of bed, before your legs swell during the day.

Wear stockings as directed by your doctor. If your stockings are too uncomfortable to wear for most of the day, you may need to be refitted. Or you may need to try a different fabric or style.

It may help to think of compression hose as one of those "natural" treatments that can help manage complications that ET can cause. A good diet, fresh air, exercise, reading, and even wearing the right socks can all be part of your good health.

Be well!

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