Easy Ways to Manage Swelling (Edema)
Do you notice that your ankles are swollen at the end of the day or worse, all day? Studies estimate up to 10 million people suffer with some form of edema; excess fluid build up in your tissues.. This can be a significant challenge for stroke survivors and people dealing with heart conditions. The most common recommendations are a prescription for a "water-pill" and those white compression socks people get when they are in the hospital called Ted Hose. Ted hose are used primarily for people that aren't walking to prevent blood clots, and can help with edema but are designed for short term use.
Here are two other innovative solutions that can also help do the trick!
1. Comfort Solution: Compression Dress Socks
One of the most commonly prescribed solutions to lower extremity edema are compression stockings. While they work well, they are also hard to get on and sometimes uncomfortable, not to mention they don't match any of your outfits! But Vim & Vgr (pictured in thumbnail) and a few other companies offer great looking compression socks made from cotton or nylon that have up to 20-30mmHg of compression. Mild edema typically responds to 20-30mmHg or less compression and can be used long term. Edema is often a long term problem that must be managed with daily solutions, so ease of use is a key factor in being consistent with following through with any prescribed program. These types of compression socks can be an enjoyable, yet effective, solution that you can adhere to daily.
2. Cost Saving Solution: Bed Wedge
One of the best ways to manage edema in the legs is to get the feet above the level of the heart. You could pile pillows under your feet on the end of the bed but by the morning the pillows have often moved and the feet are no longer elevated. A bed that elevates the feet is convenient, but also an expensive solution. Consider trying a bed wedge. It’s less costly, but is just as effective. It can be placed on top of the bed or for more comfort, under the mattress itself! It also can be used when you are sitting in your recliner or sofa so that you can ensure your feet are above the level of your heart without needing to lie down in bed.
The better you are able to do with managing your edema, the better you will feel. The better you feel the more engaged you can be in the great things in your life. So try these solutions to see if they help you care for yourself in a better way.
Written By Dr. Brandy Archie, OTD, OTR/L, CLIPP, CLVT, Owner, AccessAbleLiving.com
