I just had the sclerotherapy procedure today. I would love to cut off the feet of my compression stockings. I feel like it would be much more comfortable. Would that defeat the purpose?
No, you should not cut the feet off of your compression hose. Not only will that defeat the purpose, but it would make things worse.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I do not generally recommend that my patients cut the feet off of their compression stockings for the following reason: The compression stockings that I routinely pass out are called graduated compression stockings. This means that as you go from the foot to the thigh, the amount of compression applied to the leg gradually decreases as you go up the leg. That being said, if you were to cut the foot portion off, you are essentially taking all of the compression off of the foot but maintaining the compression at or around the ankle. Some of my patients who went ahead and cut the foot off of their stockings experienced some extra swelling in their foot. Cutting the stockings will not necessary defeat the purpose, but it can cause some added discomfort in the feet.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It wouldn't defeat the purpose, but the stockings might fray. If you have the compression stockings that have the toe too, then you can cut the toe off just before the seam, but cutting the entire foot off might ruin the stocking.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The point is that compressing the foot is the only way to move the blood in the foot uphill. If the foot is cut off of the hose, you will develop swelling in the uncompressed foot. You will still benefit from enhanced calf muscle emptying. The stockings will probably unravel. Now informed, it's your choice.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is not a good idea to cut off the feet of your compression stockings; it will cause foot swelling.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If you cut off the feet of your compression stockings, your ankles might swell and the stockings may start to unravel.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Not a good idea. Compression stockings are specially designed with the toe integrated. If you can't tolerate this type of hose, ask you physician for an open toe style.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Please do not cut the feet off your compression hose. They usually roll up and can cause a tourniquet effect, or they can unravel. I typically put my patients in open toe styles if they are wearing them post-sclerotherapy. We all find it's nice to have the toes out and less constricting.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Although there is no major harm, cutting off the feet of your compression stockings might cause your feet to swell and would ruin an otherwise good pair of stockings.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Although cutting off the feet of the compression stockings may be more comfortable, you will defeat the graduated compression, which is highest at the foot and ankle. If the stockings are uncomfortable, then you should get a better fitting pair.
Published on Jul 11, 2012