Thanks Pam, and thank you John for the clarification. John, for you, in reference to my original question about authoritative guidance for the use of compression socks. The rational for not wearing compression socks for SFN is because theoretically, from a physiological standpoint, the socks are capable of causing some degree of venous stasis and reduced arterial blood flow creating an anoxic environment around the associated nerves. Although this may be minor, any reduction of oxygen to an already damaged, oxygen deprived, oxygen hungry nerve may be pathologically detrimental to the protective myelin nerve sheath and ultimately to the nerve proper. I hope that there is someone in the group who has expertise in neurophysiology who can authoritatively comment on this controversial question.
I do not have the edema problem that you do(bless your heart), but my mother does. I recall that you said you have difficulty complying with your physicians recommendation to elevate your feet and legs several times per day. Here is a tip that may help and not require some many times per day. A yoga instructor taught her to lay on the floor with her buttocks against the wall and her feet and legs extended vertically 90 degrees up the wall. Hold this for several minutes(at least 15) while periodically wiggling the toes and flexing and extending the feet and ankles. Then finish by "milk" the toes, feet and legs by massaging from the toes downward to the waist. It is done first thing in the morning, sometime in the afternoon and at night before going to bed. These "super" elevations may cut down on the multiple minor elevations that he recommended and be more efficient and therapeutic for you. If you decide to try this, I hope it helps. Thanks again for your guidance with the supplements.