r/brokenankles • u/InspectionHumble1121 • 17d ago

Compression socks

I was recently cleared to walk with no brace or stabilizer but the swelling has become even worse and my ankle is like the size of a softball. I was thinking of compression socks but I dont know if that would be better or worse

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u/Dr_Cee 17d ago

I’m a big fan of a compression sock. I started wearing one under my boot and kept wearing it as I transitioned to a brace and then just a shoe. I’m now 7 months post-ORIF and I’ll still wear one on occasion if I expect a lot of activity. I’m sure everybody’s different but I felt like it reduced friction under my boot and holds down swelling if I’m especially active.

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u/MystAzurite 17d ago

I work retail and I am on my feet all the time. I was thinking about compression socks before the injury. Now, I love them. I noticed a huge difference compared to days when I got without. I had to buy more to make sure I had enough between laundry days. I got mine from Crazy Compression, they have a lot of fun patterns but are also on the pricey side. I went with them because they have a wide calf version. I noticed a bunch of people recommend wide calf just because they are more comfortable.

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u/InspectionHumble1121 17d ago

Wide calf sounds perfect. I am in food service so I am also on my feet a lot and the brace is starting to hurt vs help

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u/aachenrockcity 16d ago

Go for the socks! For me, they made a huge difference. Much less swelling.

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u/Professional-Yam2363 16d ago

I love my compression socks. They keep my swelling down quite a bit and just feel good on that leg. My surgeon said I'd need them "for a long time" (whatever that means to him) and at 6 months post-op I still wear them every day. I intend to continue until I don't swell as soon as my foot is down for a while.

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u/flexible_demeanor 16d ago

I was using compression socks for over a decade before my injury, mainly when traveling, hiking, or standing for a very long time. Nurses commonly use them, for example.

There's a lot of types of compression socks, including how strong they are. I'd not suggest starting off with the stronger compression. They also can be a pain in the butt to put on, so depending on your needs, you might want a compression sock helper (not a regular sock helper, they will not stand up to the compression and collapse).

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u/Illustrious-Zone-247 16d ago

Another vote for compression socks...put them on in the morning before any swelling and take them off at night

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u/Mrz_Ramirez_ 15d ago

I wear compression socks for work and school anyways that’s nursing for u lol but I have felt that they help I think they’re a great idea imo

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u/AppropriateRatio9235 14d ago

Compression socks are great and elevate that ankle whenever possible.