When you have stasis ulcers in the skin, the blood in the tissue breaks down and leaves a brownish color. The skin becomes dry, cracks, and itches. The goals of treatment are to reduce the pooling of blood and prevent ulcers. At night, sleep with your feet elevated about 6 inches by propping them on pillows. Special stockings may be prescribed by your health care provider to compress your legs and help the blood to return to the heart.
Proper fit is very important.
The stockings must provide greater pressure at the foot and ankle and gradually declining pressure up the leg. You should put the stockings on after a period of leg elevation, for example, before you get out of bed in the morning. Elevate your legs for at least 30 minutes every 2 hours and sleep with your legs propped on pillows. Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. Walking is better for your circulation.