How Should I Look After My Lower Legs and Compression Hosiery?

Key Information

If you have had a leg ulcer, lower leg swelling or other lower leg problems, daily care can help keep your skin healthy and reduce the chance of another wound developing.

Wear your compression hosiery as advised by the nursing team. It usually works best when put on in the morning and worn during the day, then removed at night unless a clinician has told you otherwise.

Your legs and hosiery need regular review because your leg shape can change and the hosiery can lose its stretch or stop fitting properly.

Check your lower legs and feet regularly and ask for help early if you notice a new wound, leaking fluid, worsening swelling, signs of infection or other concerning changes.

Why Does Compression Hosiery Matter?

Compression hosiery gently squeezes the leg. This supports blood flow back towards the heart, helps control swelling and reduces pressure in the lower leg.

Wearing your hosiery as advised is one of the most important parts of looking after your lower legs after a wound has healed or when you have ongoing swelling.

How Should I Wear My Compression Hosiery?

Compression hosiery usually works best when it is put on in the morning and worn during the day. It should normally be removed at night, unless a clinician has told you otherwise.

If your hosiery becomes uncomfortable, difficult to put on, starts slipping or digging in, or feels too tight, please do not simply stop wearing it. Let the nursing team know so they can review the fit and discuss other options.

How Should I Look After My Skin?

Check your lower legs and feet regularly for new cuts, blisters, colour changes, dry or cracked skin, leaking fluid, swelling or areas that are becoming sore.

Use the moisturiser or skin care advice recommended by your nurse. Avoid applying creams directly onto open wounds unless you have been told to do so, and try to protect your lower legs from knocks or injuries.

When Should I Ask for Help?

Please contact the practice, nursing team or Leg Club team at the link below if you notice a new wound, leaking fluid, worsening swelling or signs of infection such as increasing redness, warmth, pain or discharge.

Please seek urgent advice if you develop increasing pain, numbness or tingling, or notice a change in the colour of your toes or foot.