Can compression hose cause bruising?

I am a nurse and only wore compression hose to prevent swelling and leg cramps/pain after work when I was pregnant. I just restarted using them but I am not pregnant, but I have noticed SEVERE bruising developing. Could it be caused by the hose?

Answers from doctors (6)


Michael F. Gioscia, MD, FACS, ABVLM

Published on Jun 06, 2012

Yes, it's possible, but it is more likely that significant bruising is due to a hematologic disorder (e.g. anemia, vitamin deficiency, etc) and you should be evaluated for "easy bruisability".
It is important that compression stockings fit correctly, and accurate measurements are imperative as is stocking brand based on body habitus.

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

Yes, it's possible, but it is more likely that significant bruising is due to a hematologic disorder (e.g. anemia, vitamin deficiency, etc) and you should be evaluated for "easy bruisability".
It is important that compression stockings fit correctly, and accurate measurements are imperative as is stocking brand based on body habitus.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Miller Vein

Published on Feb 28, 2012

Compression stockings do not normally cause bruising. Are they the correct
size? They could be old and not be a correct fit. Any severe bruising
should be followed up with a physician.

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Answered by Miller Vein

Compression stockings do not normally cause bruising. Are they the correct
size? They could be old and not be a correct fit. Any severe bruising
should be followed up with a physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Feb 24, 2012

Bruising from compression hose would be very unlikely especially as you say severe. It the hose were measured and fitted to you they should be comfortable and cause no constriction in any areas. I would recommend you see your primary care physician for an examination and perhaps some bloodwork.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Bruising from compression hose would be very unlikely especially as you say severe. It the hose were measured and fitted to you they should be comfortable and cause no constriction in any areas. I would recommend you see your primary care physician for an examination and perhaps some bloodwork.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Feb 24, 2012

Some patients have some bruising cause by the compression stockings when they are not well stretched and applied. Most commonly in the back of the knee. However in this cases is rather clear that the problem is due to the stocking rubbing on the skin and not a bruising due to "damage" of the veins.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

Some patients have some bruising cause by the compression stockings when they are not well stretched and applied. Most commonly in the back of the knee. However in this cases is rather clear that the problem is due to the stocking rubbing on the skin and not a bruising due to "damage" of the veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Feb 23, 2012

I've never seen it. But if they were super tight I might believe it . I would suspect they would have to be quite painful though.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

I've never seen it. But if they were super tight I might believe it . I would suspect they would have to be quite painful though.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Feb 23, 2012

The Compression Hose should not cause bruising. Even if they are too tight bruising should not occur unless you are on some type of anticoagulation. I would look for some other reason for the bruising.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The Compression Hose should not cause bruising. Even if they are too tight bruising should not occur unless you are on some type of anticoagulation. I would look for some other reason for the bruising.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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