Compression stockings (or socks) are designed to improve blood flow and decrease pain and swelling in the legs. They also help reduce your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other circulation problems.

 

Who uses compression socks?

• People with or at risk for circulation problems such as diabetes, DVT, and varicose veins.
• Individuals who are bedridden or cannot leave their bed or have a hard time moving their legs.
• Athletes, pregnant women, and people who have just had surgery.
• People who stand at work all day and those who spend long periods of time sitting on airplanes.

 

What are benefits of compression socks?

Compression stockings are used to prevent and treat spider and varicose veins. They put pressure on the legs, which helps keep blood moving, making it harder for a clot to form in the veins.

 

What level of compression socks do I need?

Compression stockings are available for both and women in different colors, lengths and styles to choose from. Those that help prevent deep vein thrombosis usually go to just below the knee. Compression stockings also have different levels of mmHg (millimeters of mercury), a measurement for pressure.

Stockings with a low level of compression are great for everyday wear and help with tired and achy legs and mild swelling. They look like casual and dress socks. Stockings with a high level of compression are medical grade. They are used after certain surgeries and for leg health symptoms that range from moderate to severe. Talk to your health care provider about what kind of compression stockings are right for you.

 

What is the proper way to wear compression socks?

Compression stockings are usually worn most of the time if a health care provider prescribed them. Discuss with your doctor about how often and how long you need to use them. Follow instructions on how many hours a day you should wear them.

They are usually put on first thing in the morning because legs have the least amount of swelling during that time. Here are a few tips to remember when putting them on:

• Do not fold or roll the tops of your stockings down because that can make them too tight.
• Smooth out any wrinkles after the top of the stockings is in place. Do not let the stockings bunch up or wrinkle.
• Make sure the stockings are not too long. Knee length stockings should be two fingers below the knee bend.

If it’s hard for you to put on the stockings, apply lotion on the legs and let it dry before putting on the stockings. A stocking donner, which is a compression stocking aid, also will help slide the stocking over your foot. You can buy a donner at Carmichael’s retail locations.

Wash compression stockings daily with mild soap and water, rinse and air dry. If you have several pairs, wear one pair each day. Replace your stockings every 3 – 6 months.

 

Can you buy compression stockings over the counter?

 Carmichael’s retail locations offer Jobst® compression stockings for both men and women. If your health care provider prescribed them for you, our billing specialists can check your health insurance plan to find out if it pays for compression stockings. Contact or visit a Carmichael’s location for more information.