Compression Hosiery Guide

Compression hosiery applies graduated pressure to improve blood circulation in the legs. Once purely medical, modern compression stockings now come in stylish options that look like regular hosiery.

How Compression Works

Graduated Pressure

• Tightest at ankle: Maximum pressure at the bottom
• Decreases upward: Less pressure at calf and thigh
• Pushes blood up: Aids return flow to heart
• Prevents pooling: Reduces swelling and fatigue

Benefits

• Reduces leg fatigue
• Decreases swelling (edema)
• Prevents varicose veins
• Reduces risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
• Speeds recovery after exercise
• Improves athletic performance
• Relieves heavy, aching legs

Compression Levels

Compression is measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury).

Choosing Your Level

• 8-15 mmHg: No prescription needed. Great first pair.
• 15-20 mmHg: Most popular. Noticeable benefits.
• 20-30 mmHg: May need prescription. Significant support.
• 30+ mmHg: Prescription required. Medical use.

Who Should Wear Compression

Ideal Candidates

• Standing jobs: Nurses, retail, teachers
• Frequent flyers: DVT prevention on long flights
• Pregnant women: Reduces swelling
• Athletes: Recovery and performance
• Post-surgery: Prevents blood clots
• Varicose vein sufferers: Symptom relief
• Desk workers: Prevents pooling from sitting

Consult a Doctor If

• You have arterial problems
• Diabetes with circulation issues
• Severe skin conditions on legs
• Open wounds on legs
• Needing 30+ mmHg compression

Types of Compression Hosiery

Knee-High

• Most common: Easy to wear
• Best for: Lower leg issues, under pants
• Not for: Thigh problems

Thigh-High

• Full leg coverage: Stay-up or garter
• Best for: Whole leg circulation
• More coverage: But may slip

Pantyhose Style

• Full coverage: Legs plus waist support
• Best for: Women needing complete support
• Maternity versions: Available for pregnancy

Open-Toe vs. Closed-Toe

• Open-toe: Cooler, works with sandals, easier to check circulation
• Closed-toe: Full coverage, more traditional look

Sizing for Compression

Accurate sizing is critical. Unlike regular hosiery, guessing doesn't work.

Measurements Needed

1. Ankle: Circumference at narrowest point
2. Calf: Circumference at widest point
3. Thigh: For thigh-high, at widest part
4. Leg length: Floor to knee bend (knee-high) or groin (thigh-high)

When to Measure

• Morning is best: Before swelling occurs
• Legs elevated: If swelling is present
• Standing: For most accurate results

Wearing Compression

How to Put On

1. Turn stocking inside out to the heel
2. Insert foot and pull heel cup into place
3. Gradually roll up the leg
4. Smooth out wrinkles as you go
5. Never fold down the top band

Wearing Tips

• Put on first thing: Before swelling starts
• Remove at night: Unless doctor advises otherwise
• Use gloves: Rubber gloves improve grip
• No lotion before: Moisturize at night instead

Donning Aids

If you have mobility issues:

• Stocking donners: Frame devices to help
• Silk sock liners: Help slide on
• Powder: Reduces friction

Care and Maintenance

Washing

• Hand wash in cool water with mild soap
• Machine wash in lingerie bag on gentle
• Never use fabric softener (degrades elastic)
• Air dry—never use dryer

Replacement

• Every 3-6 months: With daily wear
• When elastic weakens: Compression decreases
• Have 2+ pairs: Rotate for longevity

Fashion Compression

Modern compression doesn't have to look medical.

Available Styles

• Sheer and semi-sheer options
• Multiple colors (black, nude, navy)
• Patterns and textures
• Lace tops on thigh-highs

Brands to Try

• Fashion-focused: Stylish appearance
• Athletic: Performance-oriented
• Medical: Maximum support

Travel Compression

Why Wear on Flights

• Prevents DVT on long flights
• Reduces ankle swelling
• Decreases fatigue

Recommendations

• Level: 15-20 mmHg minimum
• Type: Knee-high is sufficient
• When: Flights over 4 hours