How Do I Put on Compression Stockings, and How Long Do I Wear Them?

Multiple vascular conditions that stem from poor blood flow can cause uncomfortable leg swelling. In addition to inflammation, the skin on your legs may become discolored and your legs might ache, feel tired, or develop wounds that fail to heal, depending on the specific condition. 

These problems can turn dangerous because you’re at higher risk for infections, persistent wounds, or even a blood clot, as examples.

A simple but effective treatment that the stellar provider team at Pearl Cardio-Vascular of Inland Empire often recommends is compression stockings. What do these stockings do exactly, how do you use them properly, and is it possible to wear them too much? 

When our expert vascular specialists treat you, they not only customize a care plan to address your particular diagnosis, they strongly believe in the importance of educating their patients about their conditions and treatments, and they allow plenty of time to answer questions and address concerns.

Compression stockings effectively treat many vascular problems

Compression stockings can help patients who are living with conditions like deep vein thrombosis, venous insufficiency, and peripheral artery disease (PAD). 

These stockings are designed to slightly squeeze your legs while you’re wearing them. They’re typically made from synthetic materials that wick sweat away from the legs, and the pressure they produce helps the blood keep moving up your legs and toward your heart, lowering your risk for a clot. 

A clot can become very dangerous if it breaks free and lodges in your lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. 

Compression stockings can also:

• Reduce leg pain caused by swelling
• Reduce leg fatigue
• Lessen achiness
• Prevent the heavy feeling in the legs that vascular problems cause
• Prevent venous ulcers

Compression stockings are available in light, medium, and strong pressure, and in different lengths and colors. Some patients buy compression stockings over the counter, while others need prescription compression stockings.

Proper use of compression stockings is important

Putting on your compression stockings can be a bit challenging, but some tips make it easier. For one, it’s best to put them on soon after you awaken, since this is when your legs are least swollen.

Then, follow these steps:

1. Starting at the top of your stocking, roll it down to the heel section.
2. Place your foot into the stocking, trying to get it in as far in as you can, and place your heel in the heel area of the sock.
3. Gently but firmly roll the stocking up your leg.
4. Once your stocking is on, smooth out any wrinkles, and while you’re wearing them, correct any bunching or wrinkling that develops.

If you have problems putting on your compressions stockings, these suggestions can make it easier: 

• Apply lotion to your legs (but make sure it dries on your skin first)
• Use a bit of baby powder or cornstarch on your legs 
• Wear rubber dishwashing gloves to more easily smooth out the stockings
• Use a stocking donner, a device that helps you slide the stocking over your foot

Many people wear compression stockings every day, but your particular vascular condition dictates how often and how long you wear them, and your provider goes over these instructions with you in detail. 

Taking your compression stockings off periodically prevents skin irritation and potential infections, but again, your provider counsels you on the right schedule for you. 

It’s a good idea to have multiple pairs of compression stockings, since they need to be washed daily. With a few pairs, you don’t have to worry about your stockings not being dry or clean by the next time you need to wear them. 

Whether you’re living with a diagnosed vascular condition or you’re experiencing leg discomfort and need a leg swelling evaluation, contact us at 909-318-3498 to schedule an appointment at our Pomona or Chino office, or book one online.