Compression stockings
Compression hose; Pressure stockings; Support stockings; Gradient stockings; Varicose veins - compression stockings; Venous insufficiency - compression stockings
Pressure stockings will improve blood flow in the veins of your legs and lower your risk for blood clots and their complications. The stockings use graduated pressure to keep blood from pooling. They are tightest at the ankle and gradually decrease in pressure up the leg. Stockings may extend to your knee or up to your thigh.
Types of Compression Stockings
Talk to your provider about what kind of compression stockings are right for you. There are many different compression stockings. They come in different:
- Pressures, from light pressure to strong pressure
- Lengths, from knee-high to the top of the thigh
- Colors
Buying Compression Stockings
Contact your health insurance or prescription plan:
- Find out if they pay for compression stockings.
- Ask if your durable medical equipment benefit pays for compression stockings.
- Get a prescription from your provider.
- Find a medical equipment store where they can measure your legs so you get a good fit.
Wearing Compression Stockings
Follow instructions on how long each day you need to wear your compression stockings. You may need to wear them all day.
The stockings should feel tight around your legs. You will feel the most pressure around your ankles and less pressure higher up your legs.
Putting on Your Compression Stockings
Put on stockings first thing in the morning before you get out of bed. Your legs have the least amount of swelling early in the morning.
- Hold the top of the stocking and roll it down to the heel.
- Put your foot into the stocking as far as you can. Put your heel in the heel of the stocking.
- Pull the stocking up. Unroll the stocking over your leg.
- After the top of the stocking is in place, smooth out any wrinkles.
- Do not let the stockings bunch up or wrinkle.
- Knee length stockings should come to 2 fingers below the knee bend.
Compression Stockings can be Hard to put on
If it's hard for you to put on the stockings, try these tips:
- Apply lotion on your legs but let it dry before you put on the stockings.
- Use a little baby powder or cornstarch on your legs. This may help the stockings slide up.
- Put on rubber dishwashing gloves to help adjust the stockings and smooth them out.
- Use a special gadget called a stocking donner to slide the stocking over your foot. You can buy a donner at a medical supply store or online.
Wash Your Stockings Every Day
Keep the stockings clean:
- Wash the stockings each day with mild soap and water. Rinse and air dry.
- If you can, have 2 pairs. Wear 1 pair each day. Wash and dry the other pair.
- Replace your stockings every 3 to 6 months so that they maintain their compression and support.
When to Call the Doctor
If your stockings feel too uncomfortable, contact your provider. Find out if there is a different kind of stocking that will work for you. Do not stop wearing them without talking to your provider.
References
Alavi A, Lev-Tov H, Kirsner RS. Dressings. In: Bolognia JL, Schaffer JV, Cerroni L, eds. Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 145.
Holscher CM, Haut ER. Venous thromboembolic disease: mechanical and pharmacologic prophylaxis. In: Sidawy AN, Perler BA, eds. Rutherford's Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 147.
Markovic JN, Shortell CK. Treatment of chronic venous disorders. In: Sidawy AN, Perler BA, eds. Rutherford's Vascular Surgery and Endovascular Therapy. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 157.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 7/15/2024
Reviewed by: Frank D. Brodkey, MD, FCCM, Associate Professor, Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
