Do I need prescription to get compression stockings?

I've been wearing Futuro compression knee highs for years. I now find the elastic below the knees which holds them up is tight and makes an indentation. I have venous insufficiency with mild leg edema. Do I need prescription to get new compression stockings?

Answers from doctors (15)


More About Doctor David Green, MD

Published on May 09, 2021

Compression stockings are available both with and without prescription. A prescription is necessary for higher levels of compression while lower levels can be obtained without a prescription.

Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile)

Compression stockings are available both with and without prescription. A prescription is necessary for higher levels of compression while lower levels can be obtained without a prescription.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 18, 2019

20-30 mmHg pressure is considered prescription/medical grade. Your doctor can order them. Most medical supply stores can measure and fit you into the appropriate hose. These hose do not have a "band" to keep them up but the whole hose is what keeps them in place.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/623_1499902138.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

20-30 mmHg pressure is considered prescription/medical grade. Your doctor can order them. Most medical supply stores can measure and fit you into the appropriate hose. These hose do not have a "band" to keep them up but the whole hose is what keeps them in place.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Dec 05, 2018

A prescription is necessary for certain strengths of compression stockings and for when you want them possibly covered by insurance.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1017_1499980280.jpg
Answered by Advanced Vein Center

A prescription is necessary for certain strengths of compression stockings and for when you want them possibly covered by insurance.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center of Orange County

Published on Aug 11, 2012

Good question! Compression stockings are not controlled like drugs and do not require a prescription. However, the wrong size or strength could either be ineffective or harmful. Therefore, most responsible pharmacists and reputable sellers prefer a doctor's prescription, while experienced
vendors can often provide guidance.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1015_1408044084.jpg
Answered by Vein Center of Orange County

Good question! Compression stockings are not controlled like drugs and do not require a prescription. However, the wrong size or strength could either be ineffective or harmful. Therefore, most responsible pharmacists and reputable sellers prefer a doctor's prescription, while experienced
vendors can often provide guidance.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialists

Published on Aug 08, 2012

You may purchase compression hose over the counter but they rarely fit
properly and may not be of high enough compression to make a significant
difference. I would recommend you have your legs professionally measured at
a vein center and buy yourself a good quality pair of hose.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/740_1408044075.jpg
Answered by Vein Specialists

You may purchase compression hose over the counter but they rarely fit
properly and may not be of high enough compression to make a significant
difference. I would recommend you have your legs professionally measured at
a vein center and buy yourself a good quality pair of hose.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Aug 07, 2012

High compression hose 40-50 mm Hg and custom fit hose require a prescription by law. Some insurance carriers require a doctor's prescription for coverage.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/464_1408044069.jpg
Answered by Advanced Vein Center

High compression hose 40-50 mm Hg and custom fit hose require a prescription by law. Some insurance carriers require a doctor's prescription for coverage.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Aug 06, 2012

No, just go to a medical supply store and get measured.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/554_1447800116.jpg
Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

No, just go to a medical supply store and get measured.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Aug 04, 2012

No, you don't need a prescription to get compression stockings.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/772_1408044077.jpg
Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

No, you don't need a prescription to get compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Aug 03, 2012

You can get a low grade compression stocking without a prescription.However, it sounds as though you might need a higher compression. In our office we normally prescribe 30-40 mm. Have you had any treatment? In our office we do not prescribe compression stockings without an evaluation to determine what you may need and if you have venous problems.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1172_1408044089.jpg
Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

You can get a low grade compression stocking without a prescription.However, it sounds as though you might need a higher compression. In our office we normally prescribe 30-40 mm. Have you had any treatment? In our office we do not prescribe compression stockings without an evaluation to determine what you may need and if you have venous problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


HealthQare Associates of Northern Virginia

Published on Aug 03, 2012

Yes, you do need a prescription to get compression stockings; however, you can order prescription strength stockings (20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg) online without a prescription.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/998_1499978752.jpg
Answered by HealthQare Associates of Northern Virginia

Yes, you do need a prescription to get compression stockings; however, you can order prescription strength stockings (20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg) online without a prescription.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

Published on Aug 03, 2012

Compression up to 20-30 mm Hg are stronger than Futuro brand and don't need a prescription. The indentation will always be an issue unless the stockings go to the thighs.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1316_1409862499.jpg
Answered by Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

Compression up to 20-30 mm Hg are stronger than Futuro brand and don't need a prescription. The indentation will always be an issue unless the stockings go to the thighs.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Aug 03, 2012

Compression stockings can be gotten through a prescription or by going to any surgical supply store, drug store, etc. The compression of the stocking varies according to what is being treated. For most routine things, compression around 18 to 30 is sufficient. I rarely prescribe compression stockings, as most can be purchased over the counter. Certainly, custom made stockings may be more form fitting, but they are also considerably more expensive and, in my experience, not much better than over the counter. You may want to see a vein specialist before getting stockings.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1053_1499982262.jpg
Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Compression stockings can be gotten through a prescription or by going to any surgical supply store, drug store, etc. The compression of the stocking varies according to what is being treated. For most routine things, compression around 18 to 30 is sufficient. I rarely prescribe compression stockings, as most can be purchased over the counter. Certainly, custom made stockings may be more form fitting, but they are also considerably more expensive and, in my experience, not much better than over the counter. You may want to see a vein specialist before getting stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Aug 03, 2012

Medical Grade compression hose do require a prescription from a physician. I don't recommend knee highs for exactly the problems you are having. A properly fitted thigh-high or panty style should feel better.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/632_1504890617.jpg
Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Medical Grade compression hose do require a prescription from a physician. I don't recommend knee highs for exactly the problems you are having. A properly fitted thigh-high or panty style should feel better.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Aug 03, 2012

It depends on the level of compression of the stockings. Probably worth an evaluation of your venous system by a vascular MD if it's been a while.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/922_1408044082.jpg
Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

It depends on the level of compression of the stockings. Probably worth an evaluation of your venous system by a vascular MD if it's been a while.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

Published on Aug 03, 2012

Grade 2 (30-40 mmHg) GRADUATED compression stockings do require prescription.

//imgs-origin.edoctors.com/imageresizer/image/user_uploads/58x58_85-1/doctors/1245_1425080188.jpg
Answered by Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

Grade 2 (30-40 mmHg) GRADUATED compression stockings do require prescription.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Related Questions for Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings -7 answers
And should you be physically active while wearing the crompression socks?
See More
Compression Stockings -15 answers
I am 21 weeks pregnant and my whole leg and feet really hurt. I only have knee-length compression hose. Can I sleep with them on?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
How big of a size do compression stockings come in?
See More
Compression Stockings -10 answers
I got knee surgery and have been wearin the socks for 3 weeks with some rests a day. I walk on my leg so blood circulates and crutches help me in public. Is it safe to not wear the stockings at all anymore? I just really don't want a blood clot.
See More
Compression Stockings -12 answers
I wear compression stockings for varicose veins during my pregnancy. They ease the pain and tiredness, but my legs get so itchy sometimes - especially after I take my stockings off. What can i do to prevent the itchiness and are they too tight?
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I was wondering if someone who already has a clot wore compression stockings, would it be safe? Might this dislodge the clot? I only just learned about compression stockings and I'm not sure of these details.
See More
Compression Stockings -7 answers
I had the procedure this morning and wore the compression stockings all day but I can't remember if the Dr. said to wear them when I sleep?
See More
Compression Stockings -11 answers
Do you recommend wearing compression stockings on long flights? I have two flights: one 8 hours with a break of 12 hours and continuing another 12 hours after. I have store bought knee highs and thigh highs. Any disadvantages?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
The knee highs are so much more comfortable. Are they effective enough?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I'm wondering if the pressure from compression stockings can harm the fetus?
See More
Compression Stockings -6 answers
If I have problems with just one leg, can I wear one compression knee high or should I wear both?
See More
Compression Stockings -4 answers
How long after starting to wear these, will I see results?My calve has improved, but the ankle is still huge and the foot quite puffy.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
I presently suffer from a sciatica for the 1st time. Lots of pain in my calf area and particularly in one pinpoint spot in the calf along with hip/groin pain.I wonder if stockings will help my calf pain and is it safe at 20/30 compression?Thank you
See More
Compression Stockings -13 answers
I am wearing compression stockings and was wondering how long should I wear them? Six and a half weeks after my C-section, I am still not mobile much.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
What are the differences? Is it worth the additional cost?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
It seems like tight clothes wouldn't benefit circulation.
See More
Compression Stockings -8 answers
My vascular surgeon did an ultrasound and prescribed endovenous laser ablation. She also suggested that I wear compression stockings after the procedure. However, due to severe psoriasis and eczema on my feet, I cannot wear full-coverage stockings that cover them. They must always be in wet dressings, but cannot be fully covered. Would footless compression stockings be just as effective as full-coverage hose following the procedure?
See More
Compression Stockings -9 answers
I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?
See More
Get answers from our experienced doctors.
How it works

Related Articles

Have specific questions?
ASK A DOCTOR