Why is my ankle getting smaller but the swelling in my foot getting worse with the compression sock?

I was dx with phlebitis. The phlebitis is gone but the swelling did not go away. An u/s was negative for clot. I was fitted for 30-40 knee-high compression socks. The sock is pushing and causing swelling in my foot. My ankle was swollen but is back to normal; my foot is worse. Why is this happening? What should I do?

Answers from doctors (5)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Aug 17, 2017

Without seeing you or checking you with ultrasound it is difficult to say. The swelling may or may not be related to the phlebitis. Was your superficial saphenous system check for reflux also? This is usually done standing. It's also possible the issue is from the hose themselves. These are high compression also. As your ankle swelling has gone down, perhaps try getting remeasured and fitted into a 20-30 mmHg hose - it may be the fit of the actual hose. A good quality hose such as Sigvaris will be more comfortable with more flex than a less expensive brand.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Without seeing you or checking you with ultrasound it is difficult to say. The swelling may or may not be related to the phlebitis. Was your superficial saphenous system check for reflux also? This is usually done standing. It's also possible the issue is from the hose themselves. These are high compression also. As your ankle swelling has gone down, perhaps try getting remeasured and fitted into a 20-30 mmHg hose - it may be the fit of the actual hose. A good quality hose such as Sigvaris will be more comfortable with more flex than a less expensive brand.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Daniels Vein and Cosmetic Center

Published on Jun 11, 2014

Hi,
This sometimes happens with the open-toe stockings. Sometimes, switching to a closed-toe stocking helps.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1571_1500064283.jpg
Answered by Daniels Vein and Cosmetic Center

Hi,
This sometimes happens with the open-toe stockings. Sometimes, switching to a closed-toe stocking helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Jun 08, 2014

If the phlebitis has resolved and you do not have a blood clot you can probably stop wearing compression stockings. Unless that you have venous reflux. You need to be evaluated by a Vein Specialist.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/923_1408044082.jpg
Answered by Heart and Vein Center

If the phlebitis has resolved and you do not have a blood clot you can probably stop wearing compression stockings. Unless that you have venous reflux. You need to be evaluated by a Vein Specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jun 07, 2014

Most likely your foot is swelling because of the compression of the stocking at the ankle causing the area of the foot below to swell. You should have a stocking that incorporates the foot and toes.You may need to get a new stocking or have a custom made graduated compression hose made for you.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Most likely your foot is swelling because of the compression of the stocking at the ankle causing the area of the foot below to swell. You should have a stocking that incorporates the foot and toes.You may need to get a new stocking or have a custom made graduated compression hose made for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


There may be damage to the valves in the veins due to the clot which can cause edema, especially when in the thigh or higher. I would have a venous reflux ultrasound done to assess for back-flow through the veins. If present this could cause the edema and be treated. In the interim I would continue the compression stockings.

Answered by HeartCare Associates Vein Center (View Profile)

There may be damage to the valves in the veins due to the clot which can cause edema, especially when in the thigh or higher. I would have a venous reflux ultrasound done to assess for back-flow through the veins. If present this could cause the edema and be treated. In the interim I would continue the compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings -7 answers
And should you be physically active while wearing the crompression socks?
See More
Compression Stockings -15 answers
I am 21 weeks pregnant and my whole leg and feet really hurt. I only have knee-length compression hose. Can I sleep with them on?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
How big of a size do compression stockings come in?
See More
Compression Stockings -10 answers
I got knee surgery and have been wearin the socks for 3 weeks with some rests a day. I walk on my leg so blood circulates and crutches help me in public. Is it safe to not wear the stockings at all anymore? I just really don't want a blood clot.
See More
Compression Stockings -12 answers
I wear compression stockings for varicose veins during my pregnancy. They ease the pain and tiredness, but my legs get so itchy sometimes - especially after I take my stockings off. What can i do to prevent the itchiness and are they too tight?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I was wondering if someone who already has a clot wore compression stockings, would it be safe? Might this dislodge the clot? I only just learned about compression stockings and I'm not sure of these details.
See More
Compression Stockings -7 answers
I had the procedure this morning and wore the compression stockings all day but I can't remember if the Dr. said to wear them when I sleep?
See More
Compression Stockings -11 answers
Do you recommend wearing compression stockings on long flights? I have two flights: one 8 hours with a break of 12 hours and continuing another 12 hours after. I have store bought knee highs and thigh highs. Any disadvantages?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
The knee highs are so much more comfortable. Are they effective enough?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I'm wondering if the pressure from compression stockings can harm the fetus?
See More
Compression Stockings -6 answers
If I have problems with just one leg, can I wear one compression knee high or should I wear both?
See More
Compression Stockings -4 answers
How long after starting to wear these, will I see results?My calve has improved, but the ankle is still huge and the foot quite puffy.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
I presently suffer from a sciatica for the 1st time. Lots of pain in my calf area and particularly in one pinpoint spot in the calf along with hip/groin pain.I wonder if stockings will help my calf pain and is it safe at 20/30 compression?Thank you
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I am wearing compression stockings and was wondering how long should I wear them? Six and a half weeks after my C-section, I am still not mobile much.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
What are the differences? Is it worth the additional cost?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
It seems like tight clothes wouldn't benefit circulation.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
My vascular surgeon did an ultrasound and prescribed endovenous laser ablation. She also suggested that I wear compression stockings after the procedure. However, due to severe psoriasis and eczema on my feet, I cannot wear full-coverage stockings that cover them. They must always be in wet dressings, but cannot be fully covered. Would footless compression stockings be just as effective as full-coverage hose following the procedure?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR