Compression socks have been around for a long time, but they are becoming more popular as more people are looking to save money on their health care costs. In fact, they are used in hip replacement surgery to limit swelling and prevent blood clots.
Compression socks are typically made of cotton but can also be made from other materials like spandex or polyester. They are available in various colors and designs to match your style.
Whereas hip replacement surgery can be quite painful and uncomfortable. This is because the hip joint has a lot of pressure on it. Compression socks reduce this pressure and make the surgical procedure more comfortable for patients.
These types of socks are not just for post-surgery recovery. They can also be worn during daily activities, long flights, car rides, or when you have to sleep sitting up. Other people who wear compression socks are:
- People who are bedridden and unable to move their legs normally
- People at risk for blood circulation problems
- Athletes, pregnant women
- People whose jobs involve a lot of standing time
Before knowing the steps of adequately wearing compression socks, take note of the following.
- what are the proper compression stockings pressure grades you are looking into?
Remember that high-quality compression socks vary in gradient strength and are determined through their materials and weave. The pressure of the socks is measured by millimeters in Mercury or written as ‘mmHg’. The following are the standard pressure grades used and their support levels.
- 8-15 mmHg – light support
- 15-20 mmHg – medium
- 20-30 mmHg – firm
- 30-40 mmHg – extra firm
If you just had a hip replacement surgery, most orthopedic surgeons require firm compression socks or the 20-30 mmHg. The firmness of this type manages mild post-recovery symptoms and prevents people from having varicose or spider veins.
- Know the appropriate length you need.
The general rule of wearing compression socks is only to put them on the affected area. But since you are putting it as a relief after hip replacement, consider a knee-high compression hose. The latter is to treat any swelling below the knee.
But if you have swelling above the knee, it’s better to use a Thigh-high compression hose for more effective treatment. On the other hand, compression pantyhose are specifically designed to apply pressure on your lower legs. It will help maintain the blood and reduce the swelling and discomfort brought by the surgery.
3. Consider the risks before using it.
Compression socks can cause itching, irritation, and redness. This is in particular to people who are prone to getting skin rash and inflammation. If you know you are allergic to some fabrics, it’s better to consult your dermatologist before wearing one.
What are the hip restrictions after hip replacement surgery?
- Sit in chairs that have arms. If you want to stand up, get the armrests and slide your body on the edge of the chair. Prevent leaning forward to stand and always keep your back straight.
- Don’t pull your knees towards your chest if you want to lie down.
- If you want to stand up, don’t raise your knee above the hip that has been recently replaced.
- The foot of the operated leg should not turn inward even if you’re seating, standing, or just lying down.
- Keep your toes pointed outward every time you’re walking.
- Never sleep on the performed side of the hip surgery until your doctor says so.
- Use supports that can minimize bending such as Reacher, sock aide, long-handled shoehorn, or shoes with Velcro closures rather than laces.
How to properly wear compression socks after hip replacement?
1. The best and the only way to put on compression socks by yourself after hip replacement is by using a sock aide.
2. Don’t cross your legs through your ankles and knees. Make sure that your legs are about 6 inches apart.
3. Keep your hips a little higher than your knees while seating. You may sit on a pillow if it’s necessary. But it would be best to prevent you from using low toilets, couches, chairs, or beds.
4. Now that you are in a comfortable place without any hip restrictions, get your sock aide and slide the compression sock on the back of it. Make sure that the toe of the sock is against the front.
5. Slid your foot onto the sock and pulled the handles of the sock aide to drag it against your foot. After this, ensure the compression socks are properly placed on your thighs.
Wearing compression socks after hip replacements with a helper
1. First, make sure that your helper is in a comfortable position so they won’t strain their back.
2. Sit on a chair or edge of your bed (following the hip restrictions), so your legs will be over the helper’s side. If your feet can’t reach the floor, using a footrest is better.
3. The helper should make the compression socks turn inside out so it’s much easier to put on.
4. While your foot is straight, the helper should place the sock on your toes and roll it up your foot.
5. Once the socks are straightened, ask your helper if they can smooth the fabric using their palms.
How long should you wear compression socks after surgery?
The surgeon or other health care professional responsible for your recovery can answer how long you should wear the socks. Usually, you should wear them as often as possible until you can move around freely.
How to remove the compression socks?
The only way to take off compression socks is through a helper. This is because removing them requires too much bending compared to putting them on. So with your helper's hands, ask to grip the top of the stockings and slide it down your legs. After successfully pulling it down over your heel and calf, slipping it off your foot is easy like a normal sock.