A 40-year-old member asked:
Will a thigh high compression garment help with lymphedema?
3 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. Crystal Twynhamanswered
General surgery, Breast Surgery, Cancer Surgery, Bariatric (weight loss) surgery, Endocrine surgery, Minimally invasive surgery 34 years experience
Maybe: It depends on why you have lymphedema, your activity level, your associated illnesses such as congestive heart failure, and your ability to wear a compression garment appropriately. It is definitely worth a try, however you should consult with your doctor to make sure that there are no other treatments for your lymphedema, and that associated diseases are being treated. Good luck!
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
41 years experience
Generally yes: Unfortunately, nothing cures lymphedema. The best we can do is help to keep the swelling under better control. One of the best ways we have of doing that is with thigh high compression garments. Lymphedema drainage/massage is beneficial, as is weight control, exercise, and using non-elastic compression garments, like circaids. A good source of information is http://www.Lymphnet.Org
good luck!
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Norman Chideckel commented
Vascular Surgery 43 years experience
i agree with ted king and add the possible use of a lymphedema pump, it is imperative for the patient to put the compression garment on with the leg elevated
Sep 7, 2012
Dr. Khashayar Salartashanswered
Vascular Surgery 30 years experience
Compression: In the local area that you live find a specialist in lymphedema management and ask for manual lymphatic drainage. This will decrease the swelling and then you can wear the stockings. Without decreasing the swelling first the stockings will not help you.
5.8k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 28, 2016
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