Wear Support Stockings

Support stockings are prescribed by doctors for conditions that affect the legs and feet, such as varicose veins, edema and lymphedema, according to the Support Hose Store (Ref. 1.) Support stockings are made of elastic material, which compresses the legs. This constriction helps lower the amount of stress on the blood vessels. Support stockings should only be worn at certain times.

Instructions

1. Put your support stockings on first thing in the morning, before you get out of bed. (Res. 1.) That's when the least amount of blood will be in your veins. Because you have been lying down, your legs will be less swollen.

2. Stretch out the support stockings evenly as you pull them on. This will enable the stockings to work properly. It will also prevent wrinkling. Adjust the support hose throughout the day, smoothing any wrinkles.

3. Wear support stockings throughout the day, unless your doctor advises otherwise. You can even wear support stockings while you exercise. However, they must be removed before swimming, as chlorine will ruin the elastic. Bathe after swimming.

4. Replace support stockings every four to six months. This is when the elastic begins to wear out. You'll know when it's time to replace the stockings, because they'll be easier to put on.

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