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How to Put On and Take Off Compression Stockings


About this topic


Compression stockings are used to help prevent swelling and help with blood flow. They can also help prevent blood clots from forming. There are two main types of compression stockings: ‚  
  • Antiembolic stockings are often called TEDS hose. TEDS stands for thromboembolic deterrent stockings. They may be used to help prevent blood clots. You may need to wear them if you are on bedrest or right after surgery. Most often, TEDS hose:
    • Are white and have an opening at the toes
    • Are available in knee high and thigh high lengths
    • Have the same amount of pressure throughout the stocking
  • A gradient pressure stocking means that the most pressure is at your ankle. The pressure lessens as you go higher up on the leg. Gradient compression stockings:
    • Come in many colors and may have an open or closed toe
    • Are available in knee-high, thigh-high, pantyhose, chaps-style, maternity pantyhose
    • Have different amounts of pressure and some offer more compression than others: Class 1 (15 to 20 mmHg), Class 2 (20 to 30 mmHg), Class 3 (30 to 40 mmHg), Class 4 (40 to 50 mmHg)
    • Can be standard or custom made

General


Compression stockings need to be snug in order to do their job. This can make it difficult to put them on your legs. It is best to put on compression stockings the first thing in the morning when your legs are at their smallest size. Use caution if you have longer nails or uneven nails. The material can snag. ‚  
To put on compression stockings: ‚  
  • Start with the stocking right side out.
  • Put your hand inside the top of the stocking. Grab the heel area and turn the stocking inside out. The foot portion is now the only part of the stocking that is right side out.
  • Line the heel portion of the stocking with the heel of the foot. Put the stocking on the foot. Carefully pull the stocking over the heel.
  • From the bottom of the leg, slowly work the material up the leg. Do not pull on the top of the stockings. Smooth out any wrinkles.

To take off compression stockings: ‚  
  • Slowly work the stocking down the leg from the knee to the ankle.
  • Pull it down past the heel and work the foot part off.

There are a few things that may help you get the stockings on and keep them from sliding down the leg. ‚  
  • There are special gloves that look like dish gloves with a rough surface on the palms that can help you grasp the stocking material.
  • There is also a device called a stocking donner. You put the stocking on the device and then put your foot into the stocking.
  • There are also slippery sleeves that you can put over your foot that allow the material to slide easier. These are used with open-toed stockings. Once the stocking is on, you pull the slippery material out.
  • Another thing that may help get the stockings on is using a small amount of cornstarch or baby powder on your skin.
  • If you have trouble with the stockings staying up, it may be helpful to get a stocking with a wide silicone band at the top or use skin glue.


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Will there be any other care needed?


Check the box or label on your particular brand of compression stockings for specific washing and drying instructions. Some compression stockings should be hand washed in mild detergent or dish soap. Others may be machine washed. Most stockings need to lay flat to dry. There are only a few brands that may go into the dryer. Heat can break down the elastic in the stockings. It is helpful to get two pairs of stockings. This way you can wash one while you are wearing the other one. ‚  

What problems could happen?


  • Redness or areas of irritation
  • Open sores
  • Numbness or tingling in the feet

When do I need to call the doctor?


When you remove your stockings, it is normal to have some mild skin indentations. These should go away after around 20 minutes. If they do not, you may need to contact the supplier. ‚  
Call the supplier or the person who fitted you with the stockings if you have any of the following problems: ‚  
  • Severe indentations lasting longer than 20 to 30 minutes after stockings are removed
  • Improper fit
  • Redness or areas of irritation
  • More numbness or tingling in the feet

Call your doctor if you have any of the following problems: ‚  
  • Sudden shortness of breath or a sudden onset of chest pain could be a sign that a blood clot has traveled to your lungs. Go to the ER right away.
  • Signs of infection. These include a fever of 100.4 ‚ °F (38 ‚ °C) or higher, chills.
  • Possible signs of a blood clot. These include more pain behind your calf, soreness or redness above or below your knee, more swelling in your calf, foot, or ankle.
  • Open sores
  • Weeping or fluid from the legs

Helpful tips


  • Always wear shoes or socks over your compression stockings.
  • Do not stop wearing your stockings without your doctors instruction. Stockings are an important part of your therapy. Ask your doctor how long your stocking therapy will need to be continued.
  • Do not use lotion before putting on the stockings. Bathe at night and put lotion on before you go to bed.
  • Take off your gradient compression stockings before you go to sleep at night.
  • Based on how much you wear them, stockings should be replaced every 3 to 6 months. They may need replaced earlier if they stop doing their job.
  • Your compression stockings are specific to your needs and measurements. Do not share or borrow stockings.

Where can I learn more?


NHS Choices ‚  
http://www.nhs.uk/chq/pages/2610.aspx?categoryid=72 ‚  
Vascular Disease Foundation ‚  
http://vasculardisease.org/flyers/focus-on-compression-stockings-flyer.pdf ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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