Is it OK to wear two pairs of compression stockings at the same time?

I have worn 20-30 mmHg thigh high compression stockings for 7 months due to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) behind the right knee and now have inner thigh pain. If I don't wear them for a day the pain goes away. Wearing two 15-20 mmHg on top of each other results in no pain. Is that OK to do? Today I wore 20-30 mmHg pantyhose but my foot was cold all day and lots of purple veins in both ankles when removed.

Answers from doctors (12)


Vein Center of Orange County

Published on Feb 19, 2013

Wearing one pair of compression stockings on top of another offers cumulative pressure; meaning, two 20-30 mmHg stockings provides roughly the equivalent of 40-60 mmHg stockings. Check with your doctor to see if it is safe.

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Answered by Vein Center of Orange County

Wearing one pair of compression stockings on top of another offers cumulative pressure; meaning, two 20-30 mmHg stockings provides roughly the equivalent of 40-60 mmHg stockings. Check with your doctor to see if it is safe.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

Published on Feb 13, 2013

Yes, it is OK to wear two pairs of compression stockings together. However, the ones you have are probably getting old. Consider getting new ones or seeing a doctor to get 30-40 mmHg compression. If you are having pain, 30-40 mmHg is probably better for you.

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Answered by Tulane Heart & Vascular Institute

Yes, it is OK to wear two pairs of compression stockings together. However, the ones you have are probably getting old. Consider getting new ones or seeing a doctor to get 30-40 mmHg compression. If you are having pain, 30-40 mmHg is probably better for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Feb 13, 2013

I am sorry, but I will have to refer you back to the clinician that is treating you. DVT (deep vein thrombosis) should be followed closely and the amount of compression the stocking offers, as well as the length of time to wear them, should be monitored.

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Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

I am sorry, but I will have to refer you back to the clinician that is treating you. DVT (deep vein thrombosis) should be followed closely and the amount of compression the stocking offers, as well as the length of time to wear them, should be monitored.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Feb 12, 2013

It is perfectly OK to wear one stocking over another, for the compression is additive and the stockings may be easier to don. The left thigh pain should be checked out to be sure a recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is not responsible.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

It is perfectly OK to wear one stocking over another, for the compression is additive and the stockings may be easier to don. The left thigh pain should be checked out to be sure a recurrent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is not responsible.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Feb 12, 2013

That's OK to do.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

That's OK to do.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Feb 12, 2013

It's OK

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

It's OK

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Feb 11, 2013

Sounds like the stocking may be too tight. I would get checked. Follow up with the prescribing doctor or get remeasured.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Sounds like the stocking may be too tight. I would get checked. Follow up with the prescribing doctor or get remeasured.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Feb 11, 2013

Sounds like the 20-30 mmHg compression stockings are not working well for you. Do the best you can with the 15-20 mmHg hose. Compression is probably not additive with two pair though, but not harmful if it is working for you.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Sounds like the 20-30 mmHg compression stockings are not working well for you. Do the best you can with the 15-20 mmHg hose. Compression is probably not additive with two pair though, but not harmful if it is working for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Feb 11, 2013

There is no harm in wearing two pair of compression hose as you mentioned. It will increase the compression if the hose are in good condition. If you are getting discomfort from the 20-30 mmHg hose, I would question the fit of the hose. If you are getting thigh pain, you may want to see your vascular surgeon for an ultrasound examination also.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

There is no harm in wearing two pair of compression hose as you mentioned. It will increase the compression if the hose are in good condition. If you are getting discomfort from the 20-30 mmHg hose, I would question the fit of the hose. If you are getting thigh pain, you may want to see your vascular surgeon for an ultrasound examination also.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Feb 11, 2013

You do not need such high compression at this time, especially if they are causing you discomfort. My biggest complaints from patients are the stockings. Compression around 20 to 22 mmHg is adequate unless you are having significant swelling. Stockings do no good if they are not worn. If you cannot find a support stocking to be comfortable, I would try a knee length over-the-counter support.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

You do not need such high compression at this time, especially if they are causing you discomfort. My biggest complaints from patients are the stockings. Compression around 20 to 22 mmHg is adequate unless you are having significant swelling. Stockings do no good if they are not worn. If you cannot find a support stocking to be comfortable, I would try a knee length over-the-counter support.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Feb 11, 2013

It is absolutely not OK to wear two pairs of compression stockings at the same time. This could be dangerous.



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Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

It is absolutely not OK to wear two pairs of compression stockings at the same time. This could be dangerous.



Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Feb 11, 2013

You can certainly wear two pairs of compression stockings at the same time.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

You can certainly wear two pairs of compression stockings at the same time.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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