Guidelines for lower limb care

Clothes

Avoid tight and constrictive clothing - use cotton and natural fibres as these allow the skin to breathe.
Wear loose fitting trousers and boxer shorts with scrotal support.
N. B. Tight elastic ankle cuffs and socks with tight elastic rib will increase swelling
Avoid clothes, which rub against skin.

Footwear

Comfortable and supportive shoes with laces or velcro straps or those which come up around the top of the foot will provide additional support.
Shoes with thick and cushioned sole will minimize rebound effect of walking on hard pavement.
Use wool socks.
Wear Wellingtons or firm boots for gardening/outdoors.
Wear light supportive footwear indoors
Avoid prolonged use of runners due to poor circulation of air.

Skin Care

use a fungal agent, e.g. mycil athlete, where appropriate.

Toenail care

Attend a chiropodist

General

Avoid bare feet due to increase risk of skin damage
Avoid stockinged feet due to increased risk of slipping.
Wear Protective clothes if you have pets
Use rubber gloves to assist in putting on compression hosiery
If it is difficult to keep your stockings up when wearing trousers, wear a large pair of tights over the compression stockings.

Movement/Exercise

Remember to always do your appropriate exercises twice daily. Avoid prolonged standing - try marching on the spot. Walk daily.