Apply compression hose first thing in the morning before you get out of bed or at a time of day when you have the least swelling.
Do not bunch the stocking up and try to pull it over your foot and heel (as you might do with a sock or nylon stockings). The material is meant to apply compression and will not stretch over the heel easily.
Invert stocking inside out and cup it over toes, front of your foot and sole. Then slide your heal over a skid proof surface (such as a cabinet liner, mouse pad or other grippy surface). The stocking will slide over your heel and be easier to pull up your leg.
You may use a small dab of silicone ointment or heel balm on your heel to assist if needed.
Rubber dish gloves can help you grip the stocking.
Make certain there are no wrinkles in the stocking while you are wearing it. This can cause discomfort and injure the skin.
Do not roll or fold down the stocking. A body adhesive can be used to keep it in place if needed. Also, be sure the silicone border is clean, and the material is pulled up and evenly spread over your entire leg. You may consider compression therapy using pantyhose stockings if compression stockings are difficult to keep fitting properly.
If you experience any pain or skin changes while wearing your hose, please call your health care professional.
Maintain good skin hygiene with moisturizer or anti-itch cream if you have no skin break down.
If you have any sores or ulcers, follow up with a wound care specialist.
Wear your hose for the majority of the day, especially when you are going to be on your feet. If you can tolerate them only for a few hours a day, try gradually increasing the number of hours you can wear them.
Hose should be taken off at night, and you should try to sleep with legs elevated on a pillow or foam wedge.
Wash and dry stockings as recommended on the product label.
Replace your hose every six months.
Hose purchased from a drugstore may have only 10-15 mmHg of compression. When treating venous insufficiency, a higher compression may be required, such as 20-30 mmHg. A prescription is required for hose with higher compression.
