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Ted stockings are a brand name that is used to refer to anti-embolism or post surgical graduation compression stockings. This type of compression stockings tend to have an open toe so that caregivers and medical professionals have access to a patients feet to examine them for good circulation. Ted stockings are designed for individuals just after surgery, or who are hospitalized or bedridden, not for people who are ambulatory.
Two things are very important when using Ted stockings or any type of graduation compression stockings. Fit and having the stockings put on properly are of great importance. If an individual's Ted stockings do not fit properly, one of two things can result. If too loose, stockings don't function as they were intended to, and wearing a loose compression stocking is an exercise in futility. If too tight, there is the risk of skin irritation, and developing sores in the areas where the irritation persists. There is also the risk of cutting off the circulation to the extremities.
To insure good fit of your Ted stockings/anti-embolism graduation compression stockings, see a certified fitting professional or your doctor.
There are a variety of things that can be done to make it easier to put on a pair of compression stockings. There are silicone lotions and body powders (such as grease free talcum or corn starch) that can be used to help them go on easier. Rubber gloves may assist in grasping the stockings. Some people have luck using a sock butler to assist them in putting the stockings on. This can help individuals who have enough mobility to use one. This can be a tricky process at first, but with practice and regular use, it should get easier. If you are a caregiver who is applying these stockings, these instructions may help you as well.
Wash your compression stockings according to the manufacturers instructions. This helps to make the stockings more flexible.
Dress any wounds before putting the stockings on.
If you can, sit in a chair with a back, this helps support you as you lean to put the stockings on.
Grasp the top of the stocking, and roll the stocking outwards all the way down to the heel pocket. With one hand, grasp the inside of the heel pocket. Slide your toe in. Pull the foot of the stocking on, settling the heel properly in the heel pocket, and making sure the stocking is not twisted. Unroll the stocking gradually, pulling as you go. Insure that there are no twists in the stocking, and smooth any wrinkles. Continue until you reach the top of the stocking, making absolutely sure there are no wrinkles, and the stocking is on straight.
For the open toed Ted stockings, it can help to use a silk slip sock under the Ted stockings and then removing the silk sock through the open toe. If the toes get numb or painful, or if they turn dark, consult your doctor immediately.
Finally, consider buying two pairs of Ted stockings, and alternating them daily.
Always consult your physician before wearing graduated compression socks. Dr. Scholl’s socks are not intended to cure or treat any ailment or disease but are constructed to provide comfort to everyday life.
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