How to Put on Compression Socks: Step-by-Step Guide

Compression socks are tight, promoting blood flow and reducing discomfort. However, putting them on may be very challenging for many people. Many individuals need clarification about how to wear compression stockings properly, and most give in to frustration and sometimes even avoid using them. It is thus very important to learn how to do it right so that these helpful garments remain supportive and comfortable throughout the day.

The article will walk one through an effortless process of putting on compression socks. It covers the basics of compression socks, the preparation steps or stages involved, and a step-by-step walkthrough on how one is supposed to put them on. Following these steps will allow one to use their compression socks effectively and enjoy their health benefits hassle-free, unlike most cases where troubles are experienced by the wearers.

What are compression socks?

Compression socks, also known as compression stockings, are designed to provide light pressure to the legs and ankles. They are far tighter than regular socks and are designed to squeeze the legs lightly to help improve the flow of blood. Compression socks come in different lengths and tightness levels, although all have the same major goal of enhancing blood return from the legs to the heart.

Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks

Compression socks can offer numerous health benefits only when they are worn appropriately. They facilitate circulation and ensure oxygenated blood drains freely throughout the body. Some significant benefits derived from using compression stockings are as follows:

Improved blood flow to the legs

1. Less swelling in legs, feet, and ankles
2. Prevents pooling of blood in the veins
3. Reducing blood clots risks
4. Improves lymphatic drainage
5. Relieves pain and discomfort 

These socks are especially in cases of long traveling distances or sitting for a long time, such as on flights or car rides.3 They will also aid in managing disorders such as chronic venous insufficiency, which affects almost 90% of leg disorders.1

Types of Compression Socks

There are several types of compression socks available for such purposes:

Graduated compression stockings are the most common, with the pressure at its highest at the ankle area and becoming less as the stocking goes up. They are also available in different compression levels, which generally require a doctor's prescription and fitting by a professional 2.

Anti-embolism stockings, also known as thrombo-embolic deterrent hoses, are for bedridden patients with limited mobility, especially after surgery. They aid in reducing the risk factor of deep vein thrombosis 2 1.

Nonmedical support hosiery:  Available over-the-counter, these provide uniform compression throughout the stocking. They can alleviate the pain of tired, aching legs. No prescription is needed.

Compression socks come in three various grades, measured in mmHg. Millimetres of mercury indicates the amount of pressure each grade of compression produces at the ankle. Mild compression below 20 mmHg should be worn for comfort and general support. Higher compression levels are only for specific medical conditions and require a prescription from your physician.

Sizing Compression Stockings Properly

Proper sizing is one of the most important things when purchasing compression stockings. The measurements should be made on bare skin early in the morning, as this is the best time of day when the swelling is at least. The most critical measurement is the ankle circumference at the narrowest part above the ankle bone.

Also, measure the calf's widest point and record the shoe size.

The sock must be tight enough to feel support but not so tight that it is uncomfortable. The highest compression should be at the ankle, decreasing leg. Use the following sizing chart as a guide:

If uncertain, selecting a size that allows safe fitting for the largest of the footwear, ankle, and calf measurements is always better.

The best time to wear compression stockings

The best time to wear compression stockings is early morning when the legs are least swollen. This will help provide maximum compression for the rest of the day. 

Compression stocking can be helpful under the following circumstances:

1. If one has been standing or sitting for an extended period
2. one has poor circulation or is experiencing swelling
3. one has a pre-existing medical condition like Lymphedema
4. Edema or DiabetesDuring pregnancy, 
5. After any surgical operation to prevent deep vein thrombosis 
6. when one is involved in sports or any other physical activity, 

Gather equipment 

There are several things that one may find helpful to have available before putting on compression stockings, including:

• Clean, dry compression stockings 
• Rubber grippers (optional) to provide grip 
• A smooth, flat surface to sit on.

To make the process easier, avoid applying lotion or oils before wearing the stockings, as moisture can make them harder to put on. 

It is also recommended that new stockings be washed in mild soap before use for the first time, as this will give the fabric more pliability.

Step 1: Turn the sock inside out. 

First, slide your hand and wrist into the sock, palm, and sole upwards until your hand heel reaches the heel of the sock. Hold the thumb and fingers to the heel, then turn the sock inside out, bringing the heel to the front. This makes it easier to don a compression sock.

Step 2: Insert your foot. 

Turn the sock inside out, then turn your hand over so that your palm and the sole of the sock are down towards the floor 1. Slowly ease your foot into the foot of the sock, with your sole matching up with the sole of the sock. Put the heel of the stocking just below your heel. Be gentle to make the application of the compression socks easier.

Step 3: Pull the sock up with your foot, peeling the sock's leg up and over your heel and calf. Take both hands to the hanging material and fan the fabric over your calf in sections upwards towards your knee. If you wear thigh-length compression stockings, stand up to pull them over your knees.

Step 4: Smooth and adjust. 

Once the sock is pulled up, it's necessary to smooth out any wrinkles so that the stockings lay flat against the skin. This is part of learning how to apply compression socks correctly and ensure correct placement. Wrinkled compression stockings can cause pain instead of support, so take the time to adjust accordingly.

Additional tips for wearing compression stockings: 

• Apply first thing in the morning when the legs are least swollen.
• Wear rubber gloves to grasp fabric better.
• Avoid wearing jewellery that will catch or puncture the stockings.
• Use a light dusting of talcum powder or cornstarch if the legs are too damp or dry.
• Try special grip gloves to prevent unwarranted stretching of the stocking.

Wearing compression stockings is manageable using the steps accompanied by these tips. They will guide you through proper fitting and maximum benefits.

Putting on compression socks correctly can make a huge difference in how well they work and how comfortable they will feel on you. This guide broke down this process into easy-to-follow steps, from picking the correct size to smoothing out wrinkles. With these tips, you should be able to have compression socks that fit you just right and provide adequate support.

Wearing compression socks can make all the difference in your health by improving circulation and reducing swelling, even the risk of blood clots. Whether for a condition or merely to alleviate discomfort when sitting and standing, the effect is maximized if time is taken to put them on correctly.

1. What is the correct method to wear compression stockings?

A suitable method of putting on a compression stocking is to turn it inside out except for the foot portion, insert your foot, and then roll the remainder of the stocking up your leg.

2. What is the proper way to wear compression stockings? 

 The skin should be free of wrinkles or folds, and compression socks must fit snugly against the skin surface. Socks should be pulled up evenly and covered as intended or based on your need and prescription for the type of sock.

3. How do you apply compression stockings?

The application is the same as that of compression socks. First, turn the stocking inside out to the heel, insert the foot, and slowly roll or pull up the leg, ensuring the fit is smooth and even.

4. How do you know when your compression socks fit correctly? 

According to Dr. Ichinose, you should know two things to determine whether you have the right compression stocking: how much compression you need and your size. Your healthcare provider can suggest the appropriate compression level and measure your legs to ensure the right fit.