Are compression stockings just as effective if worn inside out?

Are compression stockings still as effective if worn inside out? I am trying to avoid pressure points on my toes.

Answers from doctors (13)


Pacific Vein Care

Published on Jan 18, 2013

Yes, the effectiveness of the compression stockings should be OK if worn inside out, but the life of the stocking may be shortened. If the stockings are causing that much pain, then maybe you should consider using a different brand. Try doing an Internet search for "open toe compression stockings." I know of two brands that might suit your needs.

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Answered by Pacific Vein Care

Yes, the effectiveness of the compression stockings should be OK if worn inside out, but the life of the stocking may be shortened. If the stockings are causing that much pain, then maybe you should consider using a different brand. Try doing an Internet search for "open toe compression stockings." I know of two brands that might suit your needs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jan 16, 2013

If worn inside out the compression would be the same but the feel or texture of the stocking might not. In addition, the top of the stocking usually has some silicone type surface to prevent sliding and this would be on the wrong side.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

If worn inside out the compression would be the same but the feel or texture of the stocking might not. In addition, the top of the stocking usually has some silicone type surface to prevent sliding and this would be on the wrong side.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Michael F. Gioscia, MD, FACS, ABVLM

Published on Jan 15, 2013

Yes, the compression is the same.

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Answered by Michael F. Gioscia, MD, FACS, ABVLM

Yes, the compression is the same.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Jan 13, 2013

Not sure why you turned the compression stockings inside out; however, it should not make a
difference.

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Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Not sure why you turned the compression stockings inside out; however, it should not make a
difference.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Jan 11, 2013

I don't see how reversing the compression stockings will help, but go for it. Well placed pads can redirect pressure away from the toes. See a stocking expert or podiatrist.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

I don't see how reversing the compression stockings will help, but go for it. Well placed pads can redirect pressure away from the toes. See a stocking expert or podiatrist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2013

Yes, compression stockings are still somewhat effective if worn inside out. To work best, they should not have
creases.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Yes, compression stockings are still somewhat effective if worn inside out. To work best, they should not have
creases.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 10, 2013

If you are wearing a knee-high compression hose or pantyhose, wearing it inside out is not a problem. I would normally recommend an open toe version of the hose if you have sensitive toes. Thigh high hose will not stay up if inside out.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

If you are wearing a knee-high compression hose or pantyhose, wearing it inside out is not a problem. I would normally recommend an open toe version of the hose if you have sensitive toes. Thigh high hose will not stay up if inside out.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialists

Published on Jan 10, 2013

Yes, compression stockings are still as effective. It makes no difference if they are worn right side out or inside out.

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Answered by Vein Specialists

Yes, compression stockings are still as effective. It makes no difference if they are worn right side out or inside out.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Jan 10, 2013

If the compression stockings fit the same after you've turned them inside out, it should not make much difference.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

If the compression stockings fit the same after you've turned them inside out, it should not make much difference.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Jan 10, 2013

I've never seen a study on the effectiveness of compression stockings after they've been worn inside out. It seems reasonable to think they would still be effective.

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Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

I've never seen a study on the effectiveness of compression stockings after they've been worn inside out. It seems reasonable to think they would still be effective.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 10, 2013

This is an unusual question, but I don't see any difference in wearing the compression stockings inside out.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

This is an unusual question, but I don't see any difference in wearing the compression stockings inside out.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Jan 10, 2013

The compression stockings will probably work fine if worn inside out, but you should consult with your treating doctor to be sure.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

The compression stockings will probably work fine if worn inside out, but you should consult with your treating doctor to be sure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2013

It's not a problem. You can wear the compression stockings inside out, the pressure gradient will be the same.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

It's not a problem. You can wear the compression stockings inside out, the pressure gradient will be the same.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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