Hi

My H has PPMS and now in a wheelchair for alot of the day. He has some edema in his legd and feet.

Should he be wearing compression hose, or just elevate his legs more?

WHat works for you?

Massage? What about those massage boots you can buy?

thanks!

Can you do chair exercises? There are several places on the web that show them. pump your legs like you are riding a gentle bike. pick your legs up and down. stretch them. getting that fluid moving should help you a lot. Compression hose wouldnt be a bad idea, nor would massage to help the lymph fluid drain. Can you sleep with your legs higher than your heart? use one of those foam blocks?

Either way that has to be uncomfy. I hope you feel better.

compression hose/socks are a great idea as is moving more (if able; if he is not able you can do it for him and it will still help). Elevation also helps tremendously.

However... I feel the need to tell you to bring this up with his MD to find out the reason for the edema. It may be due to w/c use increasing or a lack of leg muscle tone. Or, it could be a sign of something else going on (FYI-Amantadine is also known for this)

As for the compression hose here are some tips.
1) Buy off internet or thru your insurance company broker (footsmart dot com is a good place IMO and a lot cheaper) vs. the local med supply store which is limited in selction
2) wash in net bag &always hang dry
3) get taught the proper way to put them on/off
4) wear tehm before daily swelling begins i.e. before you get out of bed in AM
5) every day you are in the hospital you are entitled to a new pair of compression hose if MD orders (keep the old ones and take them home to wash/keep, as Medicare and insurance are paying for them)

Every one with PPMS is different. I do have swelling on my bad" leg, in ankle, top of foot area. Neuro never touches, PCP recommends compression hose. I don't know! It's summer, hot, can't imagine wearing hose right now. I try to move toes and foot, DH can move my leg too to help.

Every one with PPMS are different.

Yeah definitely check with your doctor just in case.

We tried elevating his legs more and the swelling isn't as bad. The summer heat isn't helping though.

Hmmm...hope you talk to an MD about this...
I wonder if spasms in legs can cause temporary edema in the feet and ankles...