What should you know about stocking for lymphedema?

Lymphoedema is swelling caused by reduced drainage of lymph fluid, often affecting an arm or leg after cancer treatment. A compression garment provides graduated pressure that can help limit fluid collecting in the tissues while you move. Swelling can follow lymph node surgery such as Mastectomy-related treatment or after Radiotherapy, although other causes are possible. The garment does not remove the underlying reason for swelling and is not interchangeable with an ordinary support sock.

Have the limb measured when swelling is as stable as possible. Put the stocking on exactly as shown, usually early in the day before swelling builds, and smooth folds so no tight band forms. Keep it clean and replace it when it loses shape. Check your skin, fingers or toes, colour, temperature, and sensation after putting it on. A Lymphoedema Therapy team can teach you garment care, movement, skin protection, and other parts of a complete plan. Never cut or alter the garment yourself.

Remove the stocking and contact your care team if you develop new numbness, pins and needles, cold or discoloured fingers or toes, increasing pain, or a deep pressure mark that does not settle. Seek urgent help for sudden one-sided swelling with chest pain or breathlessness, or for rapidly spreading redness with fever. A sudden change may need assessment before compression is continued.

Ask which garment class and length are suitable, who should measure you, how many hours to wear it, and how to wash and replace it. Ask whether your circulation, skin, wound, or infection affects the plan, and what to do if the stocking becomes painful or difficult to apply.