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    How Do I Know My Compression Socks Are Providing the Right Level of Compression?

    Posted by Alison Emerick

    do compression socks work

    Recently I had a customer ask how to know if compression socks are providing the compression stated - 15-20 mmhg vs 20-30 mmHg. I reached out to one some of my favorite socks brands and this is what I learned. 

    A factory with a history of making graduated compression socks and with state of the art technology that provides for circular knitting with different types of yarn.

    When a new shipment is received, the socks under go an extensive quality control process that ensures consistency. Each pair of socks is tested by hand for  sizing and compression level. They are measured and stretched to ensure the correct measurements for the size. Using a Pico Press, the compression level is measured to ensure that the correct mmHg (millimeters per mercury) is being detected in the right area of each sock. With this rigorous testing in place, the socks are listed with the Food and Drug Administration. 

    I only sell compression socks from companies that have this level of testing. The socks are made with functional fabrics to provide graduated compression for the health of your legs. Shop the collection of cute high quality compression socks here. 

    The Ultimate Guide to Walking with A Cane

    Posted by ALISON EMERICK

    walking with a cane

    Many people are often apprehensive about using a cane. Why? I’m not sure. Maybe they think it makes them look old? Or incompetent? Here is how I see it. If a cane allows you to keep doing the things you love - safely - why wouldn’t you want a cane? When the choices are leaving the cane at home and falling (talk about making a scene!) or staying home and being bored and lonely, I’ll take the cane. 

    First, find a cane (or canes) you love. If you think something is ugly you will be a lot less likely to actually use it. Next, make sure the cane is the right height and learn how to walk with it correctly. 

    Measuring for the Right Cane

    Having a cane that is the correct height is important for safety and for your posture. Many models exist that are adjustable, but you should still know the proper length to use.

    You can obtain the correct measurement by standing upright with your arms relaxed. There should be a natural bend at your elbows, just like there always is when you’re standing. Make sure you’re in regular walking shoes that you’d often be wearing while using the cane.

    Have a second person measure you, going from your wrist joint down to the floor. This number gives you the correct cane length. So if you measure 32” from your wrist joint to the floor, you need a cane that’s 32” tall.

    You can also estimate the proper cane length by dividing your height in two. So, if you are 62” tall (5’ 2”), you need a cane that’s approximately 31” high. For most people, the right sized cane is within 1” of half your height. But always opt to stand and measure wrist joint to floor when possible. 

    How to Walk With a Cane

    Knowing how to use a cane when walking is imperative. 

    1. Hold the cane in the hand on your “good side” so that when you lean on it, you are taking weight off the side that hurts the most.
    2. Move the cane and the bad leg together at the same time. So, when you take a step with your bad leg, move the cane forward in sync. Don’t stretch it out--move it the same distance as your average step. 

    When stepping onto a level surface, have your bad leg take the first step while you use the cane to steady yourself as needed. When going up stairs, remember the saying “up with the good” to put your good leg up the step first. When going down stairs, remember the saying “down with the bad” to put your bad leg down the step first. 

    Soon walking with a cane will come without thinking. 

    Find a cane you love at Ease Living or anywhere else. Here is a link to Ease's current selection. Take that perfect cane and keep moving. Tell me about your adventures. 

    Want more articles like this? Also be the first to know about sales, new products and restocks.  CLICK HERE to Sign Up.

    Any questions or comments? Here is how to reach me - CONTACT

    Feel Good About Using A Cane

    Posted by Alison Emerick

    feel good about using a cane 

    Are you having trouble getting around like you used as you get older? Maybe your doctor or a friend suggested using a cane. You bristled at the suggestion. But why? You use glasses to help you see, a dishwasher to help you do dishes? It might be because a cane makes you feel frail and old. Here is an easy solution.

    Buy a cane THAT YOU LIKE!

    Let me explain.  Do you have a sweater in the back of your closet you don’t wear because you received it as a gift and think it is ugly? The same thing will happen with an ugly cane that makes you feel old and frail. If your cane was purchased by yourself or someone else who walked into the local drug store and bought the first thing they saw, you aren’t going to like it. Brushed aluminum is not for everyone. Just like you shop around for shoes that fit your look, do the same with canes. You should even have more than one- a cane for work, a cane for exercise, a cane for sporting events, black tie, picnic etc. You get the idea. Yes, Ease Living does sell a variety of canes and I would love to help you find a cane you love. But if you don’t shop with Ease, find a cane you love somewhere else. Your life, your safe mobility and your happiness depend on it.

    Shop Ease's Selection of Canes here. 

    The Beginner’s Guide to Compression Socks

    Posted by ALISON EMERICK

    the beginners guide to compression socks

     

    For many, compression socks are simply irreplaceable. They have an incredible ability to promote good circulation and ward off some serious side effects of poor blood flow, and that makes them a more than just socks.

    Of course, if you’ve never tried them before, you might be curious about how they work. Here are some answers to common questions about compression socks.

    What Are Compression Socks?

    Compression socks or compression stockings are often worn to help alleviate poor circulation and the problems it causes. Poor circulation can lead to serious problems like swelling in your legs, numbness, pain, muscle cramps and even blood.  So, if you do suffer from it, your physician is very likely to suggest compression devices to help alleviate the symptoms.

    These socks apply pressure to your legs, supporting circulation by mimicking the ability of your muscles to pump the blood backup from the major extremities (the legs and feet), helping push blood back up towards your heart where it can be re-oxygenated and continue circulating.

    Typically, compression socks are tighter around your toes and get looser as they come up your leg.

    How to Choose The Right Pair

    You don’t want to simply pull any pair off the rack and put them on. Compression socks come in more sizes than standard socks and in different levels of compression, or mmHg. Click here for a guide to choosing the right mmHg for your needs.

    Compression Sock Benefits

    There are even more reasons to wear compression socks other than the  health benefits for those with poor circulation. They are also recommended for leg and foot swelling and pain. People often choose to wear compression socks for comfort when they have to stand for long periods of time. They are also great for travel as they can help prevent blood clots when sitting on long journeys.

    There’s a reason why most athletic shops sell and promote compression socks. Their ability to improve blood circulation, speed up recovery time, and prevent soreness make them a valuable companion for gym-goers and non-athletes too.  

    Find The Right Socks

    In addition to making sure your compression socks have the right level of compression and are the right size, find some you like! You are no longer confined to coring black, white or beige socks. There are so many cute compression socks for women and for men. You won’t wear socks you don’t like and they won’t do you any good sitting in a drawer. Find the best compression socks for you and your legs will Thank you.

    Shop our collection of compression socks for men and for women here.

    Want more articles like this? Also be the first to know about sales, new products and restocks.  CLICK HERE to Sign Up. 

    Any questions or comments? Here is how to reach me - CONTACT

    Using a Cane - Expectation vs Reality

    Posted by ALISON EMERICK

    using a cane expectation vs reality

     

    When getting around gets tough, there are several products available which can make getting staying mobile much easier. Walking canes are one the most common. Unfortunately, you can’t just borrow a walking cane from a friend or grab a cane from the drug store. Choosing the right walking cane for you can transform your life.

    Many people have preconceived notions about canes and what they represent. In reality, walking canes have come a long way. Now, walking canes are not only functional, they are also stylish and practical.

    Below are five things that you should know before you start using your new walking cane!

    1. Understand Why You Need A Cane  – There are several reasons why can a cane may be the perfect solution for you. Do you have pain or balance issues when you are walking? Do you find yourself holding on to walls and furniture when maneuvering about? Do you find yourself moving around less than you would like or avoiding outings because of these concerns? If so, you could benefit from using a cane temporarily or on a permanent basis.  
    2. You Don’t Have To Sacrifice Style – Just because you need to start using a cane, it doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style. There are so many options beyond the stainless steel canes at the drug store. Find a cane, or canes!, that you love and you will be happy to use them. You have more than one pair of shoes, why not have a cane wardrobe?
    3. Ensure Your Cane Is Correctly Sized – A cane that hasn’t been sized correctly isn’t going to help you at all. In fact, it could turn you off using a walking cane altogether. To work out the correct size cane for you, put on your walking shoes and allow your arms to hang freely to your side. Now, have a friend or family member measure from your wrist joint to the floor. If you have a measurement which isn’t an exact inch, then round up. That’s the length of the cane you should look to purchase.
    4. Using Your Cane On The Correct Side – Your walking cane should always be used on your “good side”, opposite side  the side with the injury. Take a step with your “bad” leg and bring the cane forward at the same time. Take average size steps and don’t let the cane get too far ahead of you. If you are using the cane for general balance and not for an injury, hold the cane in your dominant hand. See this article for more tips on walking with a cane. 
    5. Use It Or Lose It – Don’t think of your cane as a bad thing. A cane that you like that fits you well will allow you to keep doing everything you want to do. Mobility is so important for your physical and mental health. A cane that sits in the closet doesn’t do you any good

    Check out Ease Living's cane selection here. And don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have about walking canes. We would love to assist you in discovering a walking cane that improves your mobility and adds some style.