I have rheumatoid arthritis, is it ok to wear compression socks?

I have rheumatoid arthritis and will be going on a 12-hour plane trip. It is not severe and I do not take medication except for aspirin occasionally. I cannot sit in one position for very long without pain and stiffness. Will compression socks/stockings help?

Answers from doctors (12)


Ozark Regional Vein Center

Published on Dec 26, 2012

I am not sure how much compression stockings will help. They probably won't hurt anything, and are a good idea for most travels. I would try a 15-20 strength to start with.

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Answered by Ozark Regional Vein Center

I am not sure how much compression stockings will help. They probably won't hurt anything, and are a good idea for most travels. I would try a 15-20 strength to start with.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


North Shore Vein Center

Published on Dec 26, 2012

Compression stockings certainly will not hurt. They will lower the incidence of blood clots on a long flight, whether you have venous disease or not.

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Answered by North Shore Vein Center

Compression stockings certainly will not hurt. They will lower the incidence of blood clots on a long flight, whether you have venous disease or not.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Sheen Vein Institute

Published on Dec 17, 2012

Wearing the compression stockings should have no impact on your RA or the other way around. If anything, the stockings should help minimize your risk of developing a DVT while on your long plane ride.

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Answered by The Sheen Vein Institute

Wearing the compression stockings should have no impact on your RA or the other way around. If anything, the stockings should help minimize your risk of developing a DVT while on your long plane ride.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Dec 11, 2012

They will help, but do you know if you have problems with your vein circulation? Have you ever seen a Vein Specialist? If not, you should. Have a safe trip!

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

They will help, but do you know if you have problems with your vein circulation? Have you ever seen a Vein Specialist? If not, you should. Have a safe trip!

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Dec 11, 2012

This is best answered by the physician treating your arthritis.

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Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

This is best answered by the physician treating your arthritis.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Dec 11, 2012

Compression stockings may help RA pain.

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Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Compression stockings may help RA pain.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Dec 11, 2012

Lightweight compression stockings or socks should be fine.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Lightweight compression stockings or socks should be fine.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Dec 11, 2012

Yes, we would recommend a 15 - 20 mmHg pressure knee high hose for your travel. In addition to this, staying very well hydrated, getting up and walking for bit plus doing flex/stretch exercises while sitting.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Yes, we would recommend a 15 - 20 mmHg pressure knee high hose for your travel. In addition to this, staying very well hydrated, getting up and walking for bit plus doing flex/stretch exercises while sitting.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Dec 11, 2012

The compression stockings will help prevent DVT and leg swelling.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

The compression stockings will help prevent DVT and leg swelling.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Dec 11, 2012

It's OK to wear them and I think they will help.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It's OK to wear them and I think they will help.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Dec 11, 2012

Okay to use the stockings.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Okay to use the stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Dec 11, 2012

There is no contraindication to wearing compression stockings and, in fact, I would recommend wearing them. 20mmHg would be sufficient.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

There is no contraindication to wearing compression stockings and, in fact, I would recommend wearing them. 20mmHg would be sufficient.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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