Is there any problem with using footless knee-high compression stockings?

I am a nurse who works 13 hour shifts. Can I wear footless knee-high compression stockings?

Answers from doctors (12)


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Sep 25, 2020

Yes, you can wear the footless knee high compression and get some benefit. The question is for what indication. If you are wearing them for mild improvement of leg tiredness they will probably work. If you have chronic venous insufficiency such as venous skin changes, swelling or history of leg ulcers those compression are not adequate. I recommend you discuss these concerns with your vein specialist.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Yes, you can wear the footless knee high compression and get some benefit. The question is for what indication. If you are wearing them for mild improvement of leg tiredness they will probably work. If you have chronic venous insufficiency such as venous skin changes, swelling or history of leg ulcers those compression are not adequate. I recommend you discuss these concerns with your vein specialist.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Treatment Clinic

Published on Oct 22, 2018

Always consider expert advice when it comes to any of the preventive measures and/or treatments related to the venous circulation to prevent complications now and for the future. For the conservative methods in a specific situation, medical compression stockings are indicated for the lower extremities for temporary relief. Compression stockings with a pressure of 20-30 mmHg are recommended, sometimes thigh-high or to the knee depending on the vein specialist’s order. Seek a vein specialist for advice and any related question to conservative methods of treatment.

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Answered by Vein Treatment Clinic

Always consider expert advice when it comes to any of the preventive measures and/or treatments related to the venous circulation to prevent complications now and for the future. For the conservative methods in a specific situation, medical compression stockings are indicated for the lower extremities for temporary relief. Compression stockings with a pressure of 20-30 mmHg are recommended, sometimes thigh-high or to the knee depending on the vein specialist’s order. Seek a vein specialist for advice and any related question to conservative methods of treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Oct 22, 2018

The footless compression socks are considered muscle support during exercise. I would recommend hose with an open- or closed-toe as you could develop swelling in the feet with the "cuffs".

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

The footless compression socks are considered muscle support during exercise. I would recommend hose with an open- or closed-toe as you could develop swelling in the feet with the "cuffs".

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Palm Vein Center

Published on Oct 08, 2013

That should be fine. We recommend a pressure of no less than 20-30 mmHg.

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Answered by Palm Vein Center

That should be fine. We recommend a pressure of no less than 20-30 mmHg.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lubbock Vein Specialists

Published on Sep 23, 2013

Yes, there are compression sleeves that are basically "footless" stockings. There are also other compression devices that are for the leg without a foot covering.

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Answered by Lubbock Vein Specialists

Yes, there are compression sleeves that are basically "footless" stockings. There are also other compression devices that are for the leg without a foot covering.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center of Orange County

Published on Sep 09, 2013

Up until a few months ago I would have said to never wear footless stockings due to the possibility of ankle swelling and blood clots. However, a recent journal article found footless compression to be safe and
effective. Obviously, discontinue wearing them if you develop problems.

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Answered by Vein Center of Orange County

Up until a few months ago I would have said to never wear footless stockings due to the possibility of ankle swelling and blood clots. However, a recent journal article found footless compression to be safe and
effective. Obviously, discontinue wearing them if you develop problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Sep 09, 2013

Yes, it is OK unless your feet swell up.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Yes, it is OK unless your feet swell up.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Sep 07, 2013

If you don't mind your feet swelling, you can. I believe it makes more sense to squeeze the venous blood from the foot upwards for maximum comfort, but a sleeve will enhance the contractile effect of the calf muscles.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

If you don't mind your feet swelling, you can. I believe it makes more sense to squeeze the venous blood from the foot upwards for maximum comfort, but a sleeve will enhance the contractile effect of the calf muscles.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Sep 06, 2013

You can wear footless knee-high compression stockings, however, we suggest to wear thigh-high 20-30 mmHg. Hope this information help.

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Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

You can wear footless knee-high compression stockings, however, we suggest to wear thigh-high 20-30 mmHg. Hope this information help.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Sep 05, 2013

Open-toe compression stockings are OK, but it is best to have hose with a foot.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Open-toe compression stockings are OK, but it is best to have hose with a foot.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 05, 2013

The only concern with footless compression hose is that you may swell below the level of the compression. You can try the stockings and see if your feet swell.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The only concern with footless compression hose is that you may swell below the level of the compression. You can try the stockings and see if your feet swell.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Sep 05, 2013

Toeless compression stockings are better but if footless seems to work without causing foot swelling, then they are OK.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Toeless compression stockings are better but if footless seems to work without causing foot swelling, then they are OK.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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