Should I wear my Compression Stocking after an injury?

[Evasgrandma]

I have Lymphoedema in both feet and legs up to the knee. Five days ago I was a passenger in a car involved in a RTC (Road Traffic Collision). I have extensive bruising to the front of my right leg and right knee. After the injury I wore my compression stocking but I had swelling above the knee height stocking. I haven't worn it for the past three days, my mobility has improved but the pain in my lower leg and knee has increased. My leg and knee are very swollen. I am now not sure if this is caused by Lymphoedema or the trauma of the injury. Has anyone had a similar experience? I am elevating the leg as often as I can. Should I wear the stocking or leave it off until the injury settles down? I would be grateful for some advice please.

[Lynora]

Leave it off. If you can, ice the area, or keep a couple of damp towels in the freezer, and apply them alternately to the whole leg. Got any arnica gel? This can be very soothing, and helps to reduce the bruising.

[lovesradio]

Great advice from Lynora as always, you can also get arnica tablets which will help with the pain of bruising as well.

[Evasgrandma]

Thank you to you both for your replies. I had already been using arnica cream. I am now on my second tube since the accident as I have multiple bruises. I didn't know that arnica tablets are available. Putting damp towels in the freezer is a great idea as I need to cover large areas. I have had to wear my compression stocking during the day today as I was having pain due to both the Lymphoedema and the bruising. The leg is settling down a little now as it is six days since the accident. I am seeing my physiotherapist tomorrow.

[Lynora in reply to Evasgrandma]

If you still have actual pain (rather than the bruise pain) in the leg, please see your GP and ask for a Doppler test - just to rule out any problem that may involve the arteries/veins as a result of the accident.