Are compressin stockings really suitable for lymphedema? They seem to cause more swelling and flat white patches where the lumpy swelling is situated.

Answers from doctors (5)


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Mar 29, 2019

Compression stockings are only a portion of the treatment of lymphedema. Lymphedema ultrasonic massage or manual compression, elevation, emollient ointments, walking and segmental compression pumps all play a role.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Compression stockings are only a portion of the treatment of lymphedema. Lymphedema ultrasonic massage or manual compression, elevation, emollient ointments, walking and segmental compression pumps all play a role.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Oct 20, 2016

Yes, they are the gold standard for treatment for lymphedema. In order to be effective, however, they must be properly measured and fitted to your leg. Based on the symptoms you've mentioned, it seems you may need to be refitted.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

Yes, they are the gold standard for treatment for lymphedema. In order to be effective, however, they must be properly measured and fitted to your leg. Based on the symptoms you've mentioned, it seems you may need to be refitted.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor St. Louis Vein Center

Published on Oct 19, 2016

Properly fitted compression stockings are absolutely essential to proper treatment of lymphedema. If you are having white patches or lumps, the stockings may not be fitting properly.

Answered by St. Louis Vein Center (View Profile)

Properly fitted compression stockings are absolutely essential to proper treatment of lymphedema. If you are having white patches or lumps, the stockings may not be fitting properly.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Published on Oct 18, 2016

Yes, yes, yes, yes!!!! Did I say yes!!!! You want compression!!!! What you may need is manual lymphatic drainage, complete decongestive therapy first. But the mainstay of treatment is compression! Compression wraps, compression hose! Compression!!!!!!

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Answered by Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Yes, yes, yes, yes!!!! Did I say yes!!!! You want compression!!!! What you may need is manual lymphatic drainage, complete decongestive therapy first. But the mainstay of treatment is compression! Compression wraps, compression hose! Compression!!!!!!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Teton Vascular Institute

Published on Sep 12, 2016

Compression hose are worn by a person with lymphedema on the affected limb to encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of the affected limb. Compression hose are meant to be worn 24 hours a day, every day to maintain edema reduction and must be replaced on a regular basis. It is very important that the you obtain a correct fit for your compression garments by getting professional help from a fitter, whom you can find at a medical supply store. Some people will require custom-made compression garments, and it is important that these garments fit correctly. An inaccurate measurement or a poorly manufactured garment could cause severe pain and discomfort. Some people will require custom-made compression garments. You should also be seen to get decongestive therapy and follow a daily regimen of treatment as suggested by your physician or certified lymphedema therapist.

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Answered by Teton Vascular Institute

Compression hose are worn by a person with lymphedema on the affected limb to encourage the flow of lymph fluid out of the affected limb. Compression hose are meant to be worn 24 hours a day, every day to maintain edema reduction and must be replaced on a regular basis. It is very important that the you obtain a correct fit for your compression garments by getting professional help from a fitter, whom you can find at a medical supply store. Some people will require custom-made compression garments, and it is important that these garments fit correctly. An inaccurate measurement or a poorly manufactured garment could cause severe pain and discomfort. Some people will require custom-made compression garments. You should also be seen to get decongestive therapy and follow a daily regimen of treatment as suggested by your physician or certified lymphedema therapist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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