Compression stockings
Compression stockings
Pressure stockings, gradient stockings, support stockings, and compression hose Compression stockings are recommended for varicose veins and venous insufficiency, respectively.
Wearing pressure stockings will increase blood flow in your legs’ veins and reduce your chance of blood clots and their aftereffects. Gradient pressure is used in the stockings to prevent blood pooling. Their pressure gradually lessens up the leg from their tightest point at the ankle. Stockings can go all the way up to your thigh or knee.
Types of Compression Stockings
Find out what kind of compression stockings are best for you by speaking with your provider. There’s a wide variety of compression stockings available. They arrive in several forms:
- Pressures ranging from minimal to intense
- Lengths: from the top of the thigh to knee height
- Colors
Buying Compression Stockings
Give your prescription plan or health insurance a call:
- Find out if compression stockings are covered.
- Find out if compression stockings are covered by your durable medical equipment benefit.
- Consult your physician for a prescription.
- To ensure a proper fit, locate a medical supply store where they may take your leg measurements.
Wearing Compression Stockings
Pay attention to the guidelines regarding how long you should wear your compression stockings every day. They might have to be worn all day.
Your legs should feel snug in the stockings. Less pressure will be felt further up your legs and more pressure will be felt around your ankles.
Putting on Your Compression Stockings
Before you even get out of bed in the morning, put on your stockings. Early in the morning, the least amount of edema is on your legs.
- Roll the stocking down to the heel while holding its top.
- Step as far into the stocking as you can. Place your heel inside the stocking.
- Take up the stocking. Open the stocking that covers your leg.
- Smooth out any creases once the stocking’s top is in place.
- Make sure the stockings don’t wrinkle or bunch up.
- Stockings that are knee length should fall two fingers below the knee bend.
Compression Stockings can be Hard to put on
Try these suggestions if you find it difficult to put on the stockings:
- Before putting on your stockings, apply lotion to your legs and allow it to dry.
- Apply a small amount of cornstarch or baby powder to your legs. The stockings may slide up easier as a result.
- Put on rubber dishwashing gloves to assist with smoothing and adjusting the stockings.
- To put the stocking over your foot, use a unique device known as a stocking donner. A donner is available online or at medical supply stores.
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Wash Your Stockings Every Day
Ensure the stockings are tidy:
- Use a gentle soap and water to wash the stockings every day. After rinsing, let air dry.
- Try to have two pairs. Put on one pair every day. Rinse and pat dry the second pair.
- To ensure that your stockings retain their support and compression, replace them every three to six months.
When to Call the Doctor
Contact your supplier if your stockings are too uncomfortable. See if there’s an alternative style of stocking that will fit your needs. Never take them off without first consulting your provider.
