My compression stockings are too tight, how can I stretch the area?

I have worn new compression stockings that are too tight just below my knee. Is there a method to stretch this area?

Answers from doctors (7)


Finesse Surgical Solutions

Published on May 05, 2014

Stretching will damage the stocking. You can try padding the tight area with a soft cloth or pad. You may need to be refitted for a pair that fits properly. If you are wearing knee-high stockings, you may be wearing them too high. They should not be worn higher than two finger widths below the popiteal crease behind the knee.

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Answered by Finesse Surgical Solutions

Stretching will damage the stocking. You can try padding the tight area with a soft cloth or pad. You may need to be refitted for a pair that fits properly. If you are wearing knee-high stockings, you may be wearing them too high. They should not be worn higher than two finger widths below the popiteal crease behind the knee.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Ozark Regional Vein Center

Published on May 05, 2014

No, the stockings were not properly fitted. This is a problem we see in store-bought brands from drug stores and surgical supply stores. You need custom fitted stockings. Stretching the stockings will only lower their effectiveness.

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Answered by Ozark Regional Vein Center

No, the stockings were not properly fitted. This is a problem we see in store-bought brands from drug stores and surgical supply stores. You need custom fitted stockings. Stretching the stockings will only lower their effectiveness.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on May 04, 2014

They probably are not fitting properly. You may need to be remeasured, or you may need to purchase custom stockings. I would follow up with the medical supply or doctors office where you purchased them.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

They probably are not fitting properly. You may need to be remeasured, or you may need to purchase custom stockings. I would follow up with the medical supply or doctors office where you purchased them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on May 04, 2014

Correctly measured and fitted compression hose of a good quality such as Sigvaris, should not be constrictive around the knee area. If too tight they can decrease blood flow and cause problems. I recommend talking with your fitter and seeing if they can correctly fit you. A good compression hose doesn't need a tight band to keep them up. If you have a fuller calf, they should have accomodated this.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Correctly measured and fitted compression hose of a good quality such as Sigvaris, should not be constrictive around the knee area. If too tight they can decrease blood flow and cause problems. I recommend talking with your fitter and seeing if they can correctly fit you. A good compression hose doesn't need a tight band to keep them up. If you have a fuller calf, they should have accomodated this.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


None that I am aware of, other than washing and wearing - which loosens them eventually. I fold mine over so it does not dig in - unfortunately, is hard to get the needed compression without this. Wish I could help more.

Answered by Advanced Vein & Vascular Center Inc. (View Profile)

None that I am aware of, other than washing and wearing - which loosens them eventually. I fold mine over so it does not dig in - unfortunately, is hard to get the needed compression without this. Wish I could help more.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on May 02, 2014

The best thing to do is to get a new pair of compression hose that fits you appropriately. If you try to stretch the stocking most likely you will either tear it or prevent it from giving you adequate compression.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The best thing to do is to get a new pair of compression hose that fits you appropriately. If you try to stretch the stocking most likely you will either tear it or prevent it from giving you adequate compression.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Published on May 02, 2014

Those are expected to be tight. If still uncomfortable, you may need larger ones.

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Answered by Veins etc. at Comprehensive Cardiovascular Consultants

Those are expected to be tight. If still uncomfortable, you may need larger ones.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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