How long wear compression stockings

The foot of compression hosiery acts as an anchor; it provides a solid hold, making it easier to put on the stockings. Furthermore, compression stockings have graduated compression, meaning the compression is strongest at the ankle and gets lighter as it goes up the calf. Cutting off the foot could cause them to roll up and become uncomfortable to wear. If your stockings seem too tight around the toes, you may want to consider a product such as open toe compression stockings.

Oily substances can break down the elastic fibers. Don't know which knee, thigh, or pantyhose, sock or stocking to get? Not sure of the differences between the Levels of Compression? There are so many different models?! Which fabric should I choose? Email us: support legsmart. Benefits include: exclusive discounts and coupon codes, members only pricing, priority customer care, and free shipping on your orders.

It's free to join, cancel anytime. Read more about membership details. Menu Cart. Continue Shopping Your Cart is Empty. When treating a chronic issue such as varicose veins, for example, you will want to be quite religious about your use of compression socks. You will only see an improvement if you wear them consistently. Using your compression socks a couple of times a week will probably not make a difference. If your doctor has instructed you to put your compression socks on first thing in the morning, be sure to do so.

If you wait and put your socks on later in the day, you may find that your legs have already swelled, and the socks will be difficult — or impossible — to put on.

By then, your feet might already be too swollen, and the benefits of wearing compressions socks will be much less than if you had worn them for the full duration of the flight. Besides, it might be difficult or impossible to put on, and putting on your compression socks inside an airplane becomes an exhausting task.

This article gives a quick overview of some side effects of wearing compression stockings if you keep your compression socks on for too long. Side effects are likely to occur if you are wearing socks that are too loose or too tight. Possible effects include:. Properly fitted socks can eliminate these symptoms. To avoid the tingling sensation or loss of circulation, make sure that your socks are not too tight by having them measured by a professional!

To prevent itching, you should make sure that you change and wash your socks daily. You can also consider getting some powder that helps soothe the skin. When you do start wearing compression socks, you will want to maintain a consistent schedule. Regular use of compression socks is necessary to see its benefits. Wearing them sporadically likely will not resolve your ailments.

A best practice is to consult your doctor when it comes to your compression sock schedule. Your doctor can help you determine how long you should be wearing them and for how long each time.

Skip to navigation Skip to content. Your surgeon, or another healthcare professional responsible for your care, will advise you on how long you should wear compression stockings for after your operation and how to use them correctly.

When compression stockings are recommended after surgery, they should usually be worn as much as possible, day and night, until you're able to move around freely. Compression stockings are used after surgery to prevent blood clots developing in the leg, which is known as deep vein thrombosis DVT.

Thigh or waist-high stockings help reduce pooling of blood in the legs and help prevent lightheadedness or falling when you stand up orthostatic hypotension. Stockings that rise to just below the knee help limit lower leg swelling due to fluid buildup. They may also help prevent venous ulcers and can prevent the development of blood clots in the leg — especially if used after surgery or when you may be inactive for a while.

In addition, compression stockings can help lessen the pain caused by varicose veins. Compression stockings with a small amount of compression are sold without a prescription.

Stronger compression stockings are prescribed by your care provider with certain specifications — such as strength of compression and length of stocking — based on the condition being treated. There are also a number of personal preference features, such as having a closed or open toe and stocking color, as well as numerous brands from which to choose.