For individuals dealing with varicose veins, leg swelling, or other circulatory issues, finding effective and non-invasive solutions is a top priority. Compression stockings offer a simple yet powerful way to manage symptoms, improve blood flow, and enhance overall vascular health. These specially designed garments apply gentle, graduated pressure to the legs, helping to prevent blood from pooling and reducing discomfort. 

Whether you’re an athlete, a frequent traveler, pregnant, or managing a chronic condition, understanding how to properly wear and care for compression stockings is the first step toward a better quality of life.

WHAT ARE COMPRESSION STOCKINGS?

Compression stockings are garments that tightly squeeze the skin for medical purposes and may be worn for a variety of reasons. For instance, they may be recommended by a doctor after certain kinds of surgery. They may also be recommended by physicians for people who are non-ambulatory for a time. 

For those who suffer from conditions like varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis, a doctor may also recommend the wearing of compression stockings or hosiery. There are many types of compression stockings. Some can be purchased over-the-counter, and others must be prescribed by a vascular doctor. Compression stockings come in different sizes and lengths and must be fitted correctly in order to be effective.

WHY ARE COMPRESSION STOCKINGS BENEFICIAL?

Varicose veins and other circulatory problems in the legs can be painful or even dangerous, and many people are looking for ways to improve blood flow and vascular health. Compression stockings are an easy solution that is right for many people. The board-certified doctors at the Nashville Vein Centre can provide a prescription for stockings that will be customized to your needs. Different stockings provide varying pressures, and selecting the appropriate pressure is important for effective treatment.

Compression stockings are beneficial to people experiencing a variety of vascular ailments and are a nonsurgical solution when prescribed by your doctor. Some health concerns that the stockings can decrease are:

Compression stockings help reduce the risk of blood clot formation, which can cause leg pain, swelling, and serious complications if left untreated.

While compression stockings generally do not get rid of these illnesses, they can reduce their formation or control discomfort. You may think these stockings are worn only with advancing age, but they can benefit many people, from athletes to pregnant women, as well.

HOW DO COMPRESSION STOCKINGS WORK?

Wearing compression stockings helps keep blood from pooling in the legs, ankles, or feet. When veins are not working correctly, or vein valves become damaged, blood is not able to flow upward toward the heart. This backward flow creates pain, enlarged veins, burst capillaries, tissue inflammation and damage, and even infection. 

Compression stockings combat this by applying pressure to help promote blood flow back to the heart and efficiently through the body. They are designed to apply consistent pressure, with the stockings fitting tighter around the ankles and providing less pressure higher up the leg. This creates a pressure gradient, where the pressure is higher at the ankles or feet than the rest of the leg, allowing blood to more easily move upward against gravity.

WHAT TYPES OF COMPRESSION STOCKINGS ARE AVAILABLE?

There are different types of compression socks available, by coverage design and strength. Compression sleeves are also an alternative to compression socks; these tubular support garments are easy to use, can be custom-cut, and are especially suitable for people with limited mobility. Some stockings include the foot area, and others are open. Generally, stockings will be at least knee-high, but some are up to the thigh. 

Different strengths include light and medium support options that you can get over the counter or at some retail stores. The strongest compression socks are prescribed and custom-fit by your doctor. This additional pressure must be approved by a professional so that the stockings do not have an adverse effect. It is important to select the right pair of compression stockings to ensure you get the appropriate fit and compression level for your specific needs.

Knee-high stockings promote healthy circulation in the lower leg. Thigh-high stockings can be used after surgery or vein procedures to prevent blood clots and swelling or to manage varicose veins. Your insurance company may cover the costs if compression wear is necessary for medical reasons, so ask your doctor if you qualify.

ALL STOCKINGS ARE NOT EQUAL

Compression stockings are not like regular socks, which do not provide graduated or medical-grade compression. Compression stockings use graduated pressure applied at the ankle that steadily increases up to the knee. The pressure squeezes varicose veins and helps push blood toward the heart. It also reduces stress on varicose veins, helping with varicose vein symptoms such as aching, heaviness, and vein pain in your legs.

Support hose may also help to prevent varicose veins in the first place by compressing the varicose veins and helping the varicose vein valves function properly.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COMPRESSION GARMENT

Selecting the right compression garment is a key step in managing varicose veins, leg swelling, and improving blood flow. Compression socks, stockings, and leggings are available in a range of styles, including knee highs and thigh highs, each designed to target specific areas of your legs for optimal support. The level of compression, measured in mmHg, should be chosen based on your doctor’s recommendation to ensure you receive the right amount of pressure for your condition.

When shopping for compression garments, pay close attention to the fabric. Many people prefer latex-free options, especially if they have sensitive skin or allergies. The right fit is essential—your compression socks or stockings should feel tight enough to provide support, but not so tight that they cause discomfort or restrict circulation. Visiting a medical supply store can help you find the best fit, as staff can assist with measurements and offer advice on the most suitable products for your needs.

Remember, the goal is to reduce swelling, support your veins, and improve blood flow throughout your legs. Always consult with your doctor before purchasing compression garments to ensure you’re choosing the correct style, length, and pressure for your unique situation.

WHEN TO WEAR COMPRESSION STOCKINGS

It is recommended that people who sit or stand for extended periods wear compression stockings, as this can help prevent circulatory issues. Spending extended time sitting or standing can lead to circulatory problems and leg discomfort. For this reason, wearing them during long car rides or on a flight is very beneficial. Pregnant women can benefit from them, as well. The added pressure to the legs and pelvic area can cause varicose veins that many women wish to avoid forming. With a doctor’s approval, they can aid recovery after surgery, reduce pain from varicose veins, or help if you have a clotting disorder like deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

  • As a general rule, compression stockings should be worn when you are up and about for the day.
  • For people with milder symptoms, such as varicose veins or edema, it is usually recommended to wear compression stockings during activities that put a strain on the legs, such as standing or walking for long periods of time.
  • For people with more severe symptoms, such as venous insufficiency or venous ulcers, it is often recommended to wear compression stockings all day, every day. How long and how frequently one wears compression stockings can impact their effectiveness and safety, so following medical advice is important.
  • It may also be recommended that you wear them prior to long flights or trips in a car where you will be sedentary for a long period.
  • Compression hose may even be used during an activity, such as lounging, or even while you sleep. This can give your leg veins an added boost when taking the pressure off of them.

However, it is important to speak with your doctor before starting to wear compression stockings to ensure that you are wearing them correctly and not at risk for any complications.

WEARING COMPRESSION FOR EXTENDED PERIODS

For those managing chronic conditions like varicose veins, spider veins, or lymphedema, wearing compression socks or stockings for extended periods can be an important part of your daily routine. It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s prescription and guidelines, especially if you spend long periods sitting or standing, as this can increase your risk of blood clots and swelling.

To keep your skin comfortable and healthy while wearing compression garments, consider applying a mild soap and talcum powder to your legs before putting on your socks or stockings. This can help prevent skin irritation and make it easier to slide the garment on. Avoid folding or rolling the tops of your stockings, as this can create areas of excessive tightness and restrict blood flow.

Maintaining good hygiene is also important—wash your compression socks or stockings regularly to keep them clean and effective. If you’re wearing compression for many hours each day, take short breaks to stretch your legs and move around. This helps promote healthy blood flow and reduces the risk of complications.

By following these tips and your doctor’s advice, you can safely and comfortably wear compression garments for long periods, supporting your veins and overall leg health.

WHO SHOULD NOT WEAR COMPRESSION STOCKINGS?

While compression socks are generally safe, there are a few cases where they are inadvisable. People with arterial disease should not wear them because they can cause the death of bone tissue. Pressure sores and skin damage could also occur if the socks are not fitted correctly. Smokers and those with diabetes, skin infections, or neuropathy should not wear compression stockings without the approval of a certified vascular doctor.

HOW TO USE AND WEAR COMPRESSION

To wear compression stockings, start by putting them on first thing in the morning, when your legs have the least amount of swelling. Many doctors will recommend that you put on your compression stockings first thing in the morning, before swelling early in the day has had a chance to occur, which ensures optimal effectiveness.

HELPFUL TIPS:

  • Before putting on your compression stockings, you will want to lay them out so that they are smooth and to prevent wrinkles. 
  • When putting them on, make sure to avoid any folds or bunching at the top of the stockings to prevent circulation issues. 
  • You may find it helpful to use a small amount of lotion on your legs to make donning the stockings easier. 
  • Take care to fit the stockings properly over your heel and toes, ensuring the fit is snug but not too tight on your lower legs. Do not roll them down because this may put too much compression in one area. Your doctor will let you know how long you need to wear them, but doctors generally recommend removing them before sleeping. Of course, you’ll also want to remove them while bathing.
  •  If the stockings feel uncomfortable, cause skin irritation, or are too tight, consult a medical professional to determine if a different fit or type is needed. 

HOW TO PUT ON COMPRESSION STOCKINGS

Compression stockings can be difficult to put on, especially if you have a hard time reaching your feet or if your legs are swollen. Here are a few tips to make putting on compression stockings easier:

  1. Sit down or lie down when putting on your compression stockings. This will help take the pressure off your leg veins and make it easier to reach your feet.
  2. Put on your compression stockings before you put on anything else, such as your pants or shoes.
  3. If you are having difficulty reaching your feet, try using a stocking donner or putting on compression stockings while someone else helps you.
  4. Gently roll the top of the stocking down the leg until it is all the way on. Do not pull or tug on the stocking too hard, as it may damage the fabric.
  5. Once the compression stocking is on, smooth out any wrinkles and make sure that it is not too tight or too loose. The stocking should feel snug but comfortable and not bunched in any one area.
  6. For added comfort and ease of movement after putting on your compression stockings, consider wearing slippers. Slippers can help you move around more easily and provide extra comfort while you relax.

CARING FOR COMPRESSION STOCKINGS

It is important to care for your compression stockings properly to ensure that they last and continue to provide the level of compression that you need. When you purchase your compression stockings, they will probably come with a guide on how to wash and care for them. It is best if you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the care of your stockings. Many compression stockings are fine tossed into the washing machine, but some need to be hand-washed.

Here are a few tips for caring for compression stockings:

  • Wash your compression stockings every day. This will help prevent bacteria from building up and causing skin irritation.
  • Hand washing is recommended if you are unsure if your stockings are washing machine safe.
  • Use a mild soap or detergent and cool water to wash your stockings. Avoid using hot water, as this can damage the fabric.
  • Hand washing is simple. You’ll want to place the stockings into a bucket, tub, or sink filled with water at the recommended temperature that already has soap or detergent added. If your stockings need to be soaked, allow them to soak for a time. You will then want to rub the stockings together gently to clean them. Once you have cleaned them, rinse them thoroughly.
  • Gently squeeze the excess water out of your stockings and then lay them flat to dry. Do not wring them out, as this can damage the fabric.
  • After cleaning, you may hang them to allow them to air dry. Again, check the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying them in a dryer.

Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins

Used properly, compression stockings are an important part of controlling the symptoms of vein diseases like varicose veins. They squeeze the vessels so that blood can flow more easily up your legs and prevent the pooling of blood that causes vein issues.

It’s important to wear the correct size of compression hose, so it gives you the right amount of pressure. If your stockings are too tight, it can cause varicose veins or worsen varicose veins symptoms such as itching and burning. Your leg should feel firm but not tight – a bit like a firm handshake. Too loose, and it won’t work as well.

Will They Cure Varicose Veins?

Compression stockings are not a cure for varicose veins, but they can help to control the symptoms and may help to prevent the condition from getting worse. If you have a family history of varicose veins or other vascular health problems, wearing compression stockings as a preventative measure is recommended.

If you have varicose veins, your doctor may recommend that you wear compression stockings all day long or just when you’re on your feet for long periods. You may need to wear them for several months to give your veins a rest.

If you have to stand all day at work or if your job involves a lot of sitting, compression stockings can help prevent varicose veins from developing or getting worse.

Contact The Vein Centre to Get Fitted For Compression Stockings

The Vein Centre has years of experience dealing with all types of vein problems and can help you choose the right type and size of compression stockings for your needs. We will also show you how to put them on and take them off, and how to care for them so they last longer. Schedule an appointment today.