This week on the Ozzie News blog we’re putting our expertise to work for you to provide a detailed guide to using compression stockings.  Venous disorders are serious conditions that require close attention—the use of compression stockings can certainly aid in in prevention and care.

The best time to size compression stockings is in the morning, especially if swelling is involved—the lowest swelling point is in the morning.

Let’s start with our step-by-step guide. . .

3 Step Guide to Putting on Your Compression Stockings

Step 1: Using your hands, turn the stocking inside out.

Insert your hand inside the stocking until the tips of your fingers are just above the heel. Next, grip the stocking at the top (where it rests on your arm) and pull it down to turn it inside-out, stopping when the heel is halfway.

Step 2: Put on your foot.

Treat the stocking like a regular sock, sliding your toes to the tip and heel all the way in.

Step 3: Grab the top of the sock with both hands and pull straight up.

Glide the sock up your leg carefully to help avoid any wrinkles or creases. If a wrinkle does appear while you are putting the stocking on, be sure to remove it either with your hands or the assistance of a glove.

Helpful tip: Donners are a fantastic tool for those that struggle with dexterity in their fingers, or could use a little extra assistance. 

Step 4: To remove the sock, simply pull the stocking straight down off your foot. Do not attempt to roll or scrunch it down your leg, as you will work against the compression making it more difficult to take it off.

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t pull so the heel is not where it should be. If it’s too high, the sock will want to roll up.
• Avoid rolling the sock to put it on, as that method works against the compression making it more difficult.
• Never wear them to bed—the stockings we sell at Oswald’s are solely for moving and walking around.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

• Never dry your stockings in the drying machine—it changes the elasticity and compression.
• Either hand wash OR use a gentle cycle (no fabric softner or woolite, only gentle detergent). Try jolastic
• Wash them after each wear.
• If you’re wearing daily, your compression stocks will last approximately 6 months. The goal of the stockings is to bring swelling down. You will want to be re-measured every 6 months when you are due to replace your stockings to see if a new size or compression level is more appropriate

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At Oswald’s Pharmacy, we strive to provide you with the resources you need in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  From our pharmacy services to our new-and-improved Home Health Equipment Department, Oswald’s is your one-stop shop for all your medical essentials (and more!).

It’s important to remember to treat your compression stockings like a prescription—stay on top of them to prolong intense procedures and feel better as a whole!

Thanks for reading and be sure to visit us for all your compression stocking needs!

Oswald’s Pharmacy