If diuretics are ill advised, what are the thoughts on custom-fitted compression sox if one can tolerate the discomfort? And are there any other ways to reduce leg swelling.

Lay down with feet at or just above heart level.
I don't think I could wear compression soxs if I did not put them on 1st thing (before I go to work (surgery)) BUT I MUST remove them as soon as I am finished. If I don't the flames will toast me! Some days I cannot bear to put them on. This equal screaming legs and feet on fire at the end of my shift.

I had the same thought about compression socks before i was diagnosed. it seemed like a good idea to me. I looked for compression socks that would have compression for the foot, not just the ankle up. The local medical supply place said they could have some special ordered, but they were a lot of money. For me, compressing the ankle up would probably make things worse, because my swelling is more in my foot. If you know of a brand that isn't too much money I can try, I'd be interested. I haven't looked to hard since I was diagnosed because I didn't find anything that recommended them for RSD.

I have a question about the diuretics. I have been on one for years since before the rsd started because I have high blood pressure. The posts I've seen have said don't use diruretics because of hypotension. Sine that is not a problem for me, it is okay for me to use them, right? Or do people think they are bad for RSD patients in some other way? Thanks for the clarification.

Hello,

I have been using compression pants as well as kinesio taping specifically for edema (my doctor refers to this particular way of applying the tape as "spider taping"). The compression pants or thigh wraps work well to control edema - it doesn't ever go away for me but it prevents it from getting worse. For me the edema/swelling being in my thigh makes the pain much worse when I walk because this adds additional 'jiggle' and stimulation to the area causing a huge increase in pain as the day wears on. I have found that although it is painful to put the pants or tape on at first that the continuous pressure throughout the day is much better than having things lightly touch my leg (like with loose fitting pants or a skirt) through the day.. that kind of touch makes the pain escalate very quickly and can send me into a tail spin.

For those who find the typical compression pants to tight you might try a good pair of nylons - they apply lighter pressure but may work well for those who can't handle the tighter styles. REI also has 'leg warmers' made for bicyclists that are very soft on the inside and also provide extra warmth (they are a lifesaver for me since I live in the mountains where low temps really affect my pain level). I like them because then I don't have to wear long johns since I only need the additional warmth in the one leg. They make capri style and full leg ones as well as arm warmers for those that may need that. I plan to place those little heat packs underneath this winter when the snow falls.

The kinesio tape can be applied by your PT person or a good chiro who is trained in this method and can be worn for 3-5 days. Here is a link for more information on Kinesio taping for CRPS/RSD: http://www.rsds.org/pdfsall/kinesio-taping-method.pdf

Again both of these methods do cause some initial discomfort but, if you have lidoderm patches or the voltaren gel or medicated compound cream you can apply these first before using either of the above to make things more bearable in order to hopefully find some relief.

Good luck,
Tessa

Hi, the best way that we deal with swelling is my daughter's exercise physiologist manually reduces swelling with his hands. It works phenomenally well. Many massage therapists and physical therapists know how to do this if they are able and willing to take the time to do it. She could never function as well as she does without this help. She also wears CROCS with no socks at all times and this has reduced her pain by not putting socks or shoes on that touch her feet. We did find CROCS with arch support on line. She has to wear the traditional ones, none of the fancy CROCS since they often touch the sides of her feet. I wish you all the best. My daughter has reduced pain and is much happier. She still struggles but it is manageable.

Love my crocs! I have a pair at home and one at work. I can't walk a long way in them, however, because not enough suport and also rubbing. I wear sneakers to go to and from work, because I park a block away from my building. I also have a pair croc sandles that I wear in the shower. I have much less pain after my shower when I wear them because of the cushioning.

Thanks to all who have responded. I appreciated your time and information.