Compression socks: How do you know the strengths and size to buy?

I bought some in linen. More confortable. I do not like it, but it is not that bad.

Some great suggestions here for a lymphedema newbie!

There are quite a few YouTube videos online showing various recommendations for putting on compression hose. The wikiHow website has an article (with videos) that shows many of these various methods, as well as having other helpful suggestions. That's where I learned a way that was easier for ME, but maybe not for others. (I wear hose that are of a medium/firm compression 20-30 mmHg, so they aren't as hard to put on as would be the hose that are stronger compression strength). Here's what you do "To put on compression socks easily, sit down and slide your hand into the sock, then pull it inside out until the heel is at your wrist. Place your foot into the sock, ensuring the heel fits snugly, and then gently pull the sock up your leg, smoothing out any wrinkles as you go." It sounds confusing, but once you have watched a video of this, you can see how much easier it is than trying to put them on like you would a regular sock. As for the type of socks, there are many different kinds out there. I have found two different brands that I like. Skineez compression socks are very stretchy & comfortable but they are rather thick & tend to be hot during the summer months. The other brand I buy is Truform. They are more like traditional compression socks. I like them because they are cooler in the summer, are more like hose/stockings, come in various shades & have an option for "sheer". Like I said, I wear the 20-30 mmHg compression, so not sure if these would be appropriate for someone who needs the stronger compression hose. Another option would be to purchase a hosiery Butler, which is a device designed specifically for putting on compression stockings. I hope this helps.

Compression wraps work better than compression socks. I get them from Comfort Care. I have had it for a few years and have found great necessary treatments.
Unfortunately doctors know very little and just rely on the physical therapists some of which are good.
In order to slow down the lymphedema and swelling, you need compression velcro wraps not compression socks. For these you need a prescription from your doctor. Most doctors will send you to a physical therapist as you need to be measured and your physical therapist has to send clinical notes via fax to Comfort Care in order for Comfort Care to send a form to your doctor who will then send a prescription to Comfort Care. They are the best company to deal with as they send the requests directly to your insurance company!! If you have on both legs make sure they note that.
In addition compression pump helps. I have full leg and trunk as my lymphedema is in feet, ankles, legs, thighs, hips, and rear and midriff.
The best company is Tactile Medical . They will deal with your insurance company as well.

Welcome, @bethann71. I can imagine compression wraps work well especially with lymphedema in the midriff area. How long have you been managing lymphedema? May I ask what caused it for you? How are you doing?

No one knows how or why aI got lymphedema which started in both feet, legs and thighs. I have been treating it for about 4 years. I got muscle cramps in hamstrings, abductors and adductors I believe from taking statins. I wonder if statins caused my lymphedema? I gained weight and lots if lymphedema fluid in feet, calves, legs and thighs. I also now have some lymphedema in my arms. I am now on GLP-1 meds.
The compression velcro Ready Wrap by L&R and Tactile Compression pump have helped reduce inches. My size 6 feet had become size 9 from lymphedema fluid.
I do have lymphedema also in midriff area. I believe the Flexitallic Tactile pump helps.
I di have compression shorts and need to use but find difficult to use since not easy to use if need to go to the bathroom.
I find it difficult to use the thigh wraps as they fall down when walking.
I also go to a lymphedema massage therapist to get out the painful "knots". I also go to physical therapy.
I also have cluneal neuralgia in buttocks and get cortisone shots.
I still get severe cramps in hamstrings, adductors and or abductors if I sit for more than a half hour without getting up.
I have been off statins for about 3 years.
I was first told that I gained weight from eating morecand exercising less because not as active. None if this was true and I was finally diagnosed with lymphedema in both feet, legs and thighs! After being diagnosed with lymphedema, and confirmed that my venous insufficiency in legs was mild, I did the KETO diet for a short time and started GLP-1 meds and am now on 10mg of Zepbound . I have gone gluten free and eat very little sugar and very little artificial sweetners I lost about 70 lbs on the GLP -1 meds over a 3 year period. I want to lose 40 more.
I still get thigh cramps and my muscles,are much stronger due to physical therapy. I am also going to do exercises in the pool at Ome Lifefitness. I also have a personal trainer for Stretch and Recovery which helps my muscles.