Improvement of occupational leg edema and discomforts (RCT)

Abstract

Background: Edema and subjective leg complaints (e.g. pain, heaviness) after long standing or sitting, are defined as orthostatic leg complaints or occupational edema. Compression hosiery should help to prevent or decrease those symptoms.

Objective: Assess the effects on leg discomforts and leg volume and wearing comfort in two medical below-knee compression stocking types (A vs. B) with an interface pressure of 18 -20 mmHg and a below-knee-low-pressure support stocking (LPSS) with an interface pressure of 8-10mmHg (C).

Methods: Two different types of below-knee medical compression stockings and a LPSS were examined in this randomized, blinded, crossover trial in volunteers having leg discomforts and edema after being in an upright position during the day. Participants were divided into two cohorts, and each type of stocking was worn for three consecutive days in one week with a subsequent washout phase. The assessment of effects and wearing comfort was ascertained by questionnaires. Volume changes in the lower leg were measured with the Bodytronic 600® (Bauerfeind AG, Zeulenroda, Germany).

Results: A significant reduction of lower leg volume (mean stocking A: 204.7 ml; mean stocking B: 153.5 ml; mean stocking C: 48.2 ml) and a significant reduction of the life-quality dimension leg-complaints (p < 0.0001) was achieved by all three types of stockings. Compared to the LPSS both compression stockings decreased the lower leg volume significantly more (p < 0.001) and had a significant better fit (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Below-knee medical compression stockings with an interface pressure 18-21mmHg and LPSS with an interface pressure of 8-10 mmHg reduce significantly occupational orthostatic edema and leg discomforts which are due to long standing and sitting activities.

Keywords: Occupational leg edema; compression therapy; leg discomfort; quality of life; wear comfort.