What is a Compression Sock?

Compression socks are often used by people who have undergone a lower limb amputation. They apply gentle pressure/support to the residual limb, providing comfort and help reduce swelling. They come in a range of sizes and are measured and supplied by the Prosthetic Department to fit each individual.

How Do They Work?

Made from compressive knitted fabric, these socks have a soft, smooth inner surface for comfort. They may have silicone top or a belt to ensure they do not roll down. Once agreed by the multi-disciplinary team, usually from 5 days post op, they aid in reducing swelling and help the wound to heal. They assist in shaping the amputated limb in preparation for a prosthetic limb or managing shape/volume when not wearing a prosthetic leg.

Wearing:
  • Wear your compression sock for as much of the day as possible, but not at night.
  • Remove the compression sock if you experience any tingling, pins and needles or pain.
  • Make sure your compression sock is pulled well up and there are no wrinkles or creases.
  • Do not wear your compression sock under your prosthetic limb.
Washing:
  • Hand or machine wash. Use a gentle/delicate cycle with a mild detergent at a maximum temperature of 40°C.
  • Avoid using fabric softeners.
  • Do not wring out the sock – roll in a towel to remove excess water and allow to air dry
  • Do not place the sock in direct heat e.g. radiator or direct sun
  • Do not tumble dry
Contact details

Prosthetic Multi-Disciplinary Team

Prosthetic Department Specialist Rehabilitation and Mobility Centre (SRMC)

Cumberland Infirmary

Tel: 01228 616868

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Confidentiality

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For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302