Support Hosiery Donning Tips

Properly fitting graduated compression hosiery and support socks should feel snug at first, especially those with a graduated compression level of 15-20 and 20-30 mm / Hg. It will take a few days to adjust to the pressure of support legwear. Remember: Compression garments like support hosiery and support thigh-highs are easier to put on when you first get out of bed, before swelling occurs.

Here is a step-by-step process for putting on your graduated support hosiery:

1. Lie on your bed and elevate your legs for a few moments to empty the veins of blood.
2. Sit up, keeping your legs on the bed. Do not dangle your legs over the bed!
3. Take the left or right leg of the support stocking and gather it between your hands until you reach the foot portion.
4. In one motion, pull the support stocking over your foot.
5. Repeat with the other leg.
6. Alternating between the left and the right leg, work the stocking all the way up your leg, a little at a time, smoothing out the wrinkles as you go. Watch carefully for folds or wrinkles, as they may interfere with blood circulation.

Helpful Hints

• Skin should be dry when you put on your stockings.
• Apply a thin layer of cornstarch or powder to help the support stockings slide over your skin.
• Remove rings and any other jewelry that could potentially damage your garment.
• Wear rubber or vinyl gloves to prevent fingernails from damaging the fabric. The gloves also help provide grip to distribute the fabric more easily.
• Avoid rolling, gathering or bunching the fabric, as it only increases the pressure - like creating a super rubber band.
• Apply moisturizer to your legs in the evening rather than just before putting on your support stockings.

Used by permission: BSN