Retired Fire Chief

I think you should make a wise investment because you have diabetes, go to a medical supply store to purchase them, they also have an appliance that makes them easy to put on. My husband had to have them after his heart transplant, they are tight and I don't think we could have been able to get them on him without the appliance, but they really did work. Please take care, diabetes isn't anything to mess around with and because it does affect your circulation the good socks will be a worthy investment.

EllieGirl

Definitely get a compression RX and go to a medical supply store. There is a certain way to put them on. Also with the dr giving the compression level you'll get the best results.

ptquilts

DH has some that he wears when his legs swell. They work great. He also spends some time every day with his feet up, in bed with lower legs raised on two sofa cushions. Makes a big difference. His legs would swell so bad that fluid forced its way to the skin and made blisters that would ooze.

Liddibeth

A physiotherapist or occupational therapist would be able to not only measure you, but tell you the compression needed.

coopah

My doc sent me with a prescription to a place that only does compression socks. They took several measurements (ankles, calves, and such). When the stockings arrived, they called me to come in and they showed me how to put them on correctly and how to take them off correctly. I now only need to use them during times when I'm sitting or standing for long periods of time.

Yooper32

I have the same problem and no amount of elevation does a bit of good for me. I also take a water-retention pill every day and must watch my salt intake, especially important. I have been buying compression hose, knee highs, at WalMart. They are made by Dr. Scholls and are 8.44 a pr. and can be found on the wall of hanging hosiery. They are a great help.

Learner747

When I told my endocrinologist how much my feet and legs swell, she said dismissively, "Get some of those tight socks." So that it why I asked you knowledgeable ladies. So I shall take your comments and advice and proceed.

FroggyinTexas

Try to get your physician to give you some guidance about the degree of compression. If he will write a prescription for them, your insurance may cover part of the cost. Be very sure the top of the stockings do not bind your legs. If the tops are too tight, you will have problems with swelling that you do not want.
Good luck getting your physician to listen to you or give you directions. I haven't found very many who will listen to anything patients tell them. froggyintexas

JBeamer

If the top elastic band is cutting into your thigh it can cause blood clots; so make sure to get measured and fitted. Also never dry the stocking in the dryer. You can wash them by hand or on gentle cold water cycle. Good luck.