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Most people don’t like visiting the hospital under the best of circumstances, and it can be especially stressful when you have a necessary surgery coming up. Surgery often involves unknown outcomes, and uncertainty can lead to anxiety and stress. Worrying about what might happen during surgery, how long it will take, or how you will feel afterward is natural.
Going under anesthesia can be a harrowing experience all by itself, as some people may have concerns about nausea, vomiting, or complications. Even though you’re unconscious during the procedure, you‘ll likely be in pain upon awakening, and there may be complications such as excessive bleeding or infection. Personal circumstances, such as financial concerns, caregiving responsibilities, or other stressors, can add to it.
Thankfully, the odds are in your favor. Of the 310 million surgeries worldwide each year, it’s unlikely you’ll be among the 1 to 4% to not survive during or within 30 days of your procedure. Just trust your doctor and try to stay calm, and everything will turn out fine.
Compression clothing is an often-used post-operative treatment. Therapeutic compression clothing refers to a type of clothing that applies graduated pressure to specific areas of the body. The pressure is designed to improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and provide support for muscles and joints. Compression socks are among the most common types used.
What Do Compression Socks Do?
Compression socks apply pressure to the lower legs, ankles, and feet. This pressure helps improve blood flow and circulation, reduce swelling, and support the muscles and veins in your legs.
Compression socks apply the greatest pressure on your ankle and decrease pressure as it moves up the leg. This pressure helps improve circulation by pushing blood back up toward the heart. This can also help lessen the risk of blood clots, especially during periods of prolonged immobility, such as after surgery.
The pressure from compression socks can also help reduce swelling and fluid buildup in your legs, ankles, and feet. They can provide support for the muscles and veins in your legs, reducing fatigue and improving athletic performance. Compression socks can be helpful if you have varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency by addressing symptoms such as swelling, pain, and heaviness in your legs.
It is important to note that compression socks should be worn according to the instructions of a healthcare provider to ensure maximum benefit and safety. The level of compression needed may vary depending on the individual’s condition and needs.
What Kinds of Surgery Need Compression Socks?
Compression socks can be helpful after many types of surgery, especially those that require a period of reduced mobility or involve the lower extremities.
Orthopedic Surgery
Compression socks can help reduce swelling and promote blood flow after orthopedic surgeries such as knee replacement, hip replacement, or ankle surgery.
Abdominal Surgery
After abdominal surgery, compression socks can help prevent blood clots by promoting blood flow in the lower extremities.
Vascular Surgery
For patients who have had vascular surgery, such as varicose vein removal or vascular bypass surgery, compression socks can help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Bariatric Surgery
Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery, such as gastric bypass, may benefit from wearing compression socks to help prevent blood clots and improve circulation.
Plastic Surgery
Compression garments, including compression socks, may be recommended after some types of plastic surgery, such as liposuction or body contouring procedures, to help reduce swelling and promote healing.
Post-Surgery
It is important to follow the post-operative instructions given by your surgeon or healthcare provider to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
Rest and Allow Your Body To Heal
Depending on the type of surgery you undergo, your doctor may recommend varying amounts of rest or limited activity. Be sure to follow these guidelines and avoid strenuous activities until cleared by your doctor.
Take Pain Medication as Prescribed
Pain is common after surgery, and your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage it. Follow the instructions carefully and never exceed the recommended dosage.
Keep the Incision Site Clean and Dry
If you have an incision, keep it clean and dry to prevent infection. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for the wound and when it is safe to shower or bathe.
Monitor for Signs of Complications
Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, drainage from the incision site, or fever. Contact your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Attend Follow-up Appointments
Your doctor will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure there are no complications. Attend these appointments as scheduled and ask any questions or raise any concerns you may have.
Doctor’s Orders
Always consult your doctor for specific instructions and guidance regarding your recovery after surgery. They can help determine whether compression socks or other compression garments are appropriate for your specific surgery and recovery needs. Your doctor can also recommend the appropriate level of compression and duration of use to ensure maximum benefit and safety.
