My compression stockings don't feel tight but they cause my lower calf muscle to get tight and sore, is this normal?

I recently bought a pair of grad compress socks (15-20 mmgh). They feel great on and don't feel too tight but I do notice that my lower calf muscle gets a bit tight & sore wearing them. The socks do not feel tight when they're worn. Is this normal?

Answers from doctors (6)


Vein Treatment Clinic

Published on Jul 16, 2019

One conservative option to relive your symptoms is medical-grade compression stockings. However, this method won't treat the disease, it will only relieve discomfort while they are worn.

Vein specialists recommend the use of medical-grade compression stockings with a pressure of 20-30 mmHg. You should be measured for the correct size that fits you and follow up with the vein specialist to make sure they are the correct choice or method for your specific case.

All the best,

Vein Treatment Clinic

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Answered by Vein Treatment Clinic

One conservative option to relive your symptoms is medical-grade compression stockings. However, this method won't treat the disease, it will only relieve discomfort while they are worn.

Vein specialists recommend the use of medical-grade compression stockings with a pressure of 20-30 mmHg. You should be measured for the correct size that fits you and follow up with the vein specialist to make sure they are the correct choice or method for your specific case.

All the best,

Vein Treatment Clinic

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jun 28, 2017

15-20 mmHg pressure is considered "sub-clinical" and light compression. It is great for travel and general every day use. It is difficult to say why you get the discomfort. Perhaps try wearing the hose for shorter periods to allow your body to adjust. If it is just a localized area there may be an underlying muscle problem but it doesn't sound serious.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

15-20 mmHg pressure is considered "sub-clinical" and light compression. It is great for travel and general every day use. It is difficult to say why you get the discomfort. Perhaps try wearing the hose for shorter periods to allow your body to adjust. If it is just a localized area there may be an underlying muscle problem but it doesn't sound serious.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Sep 18, 2013

You probably need to get used to the socks. Also, you only need to wear them when you expect to be on your feet or sitting a lot.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

You probably need to get used to the socks. Also, you only need to wear them when you expect to be on your feet or sitting a lot.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Sep 13, 2013

15-20 mmHg is low compression and should not be bothering you. It rather sounds like incorrect size. Have a professional familiar with fitting stockings measure you. FYI, brands fit differently too. Hope this helps.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

15-20 mmHg is low compression and should not be bothering you. It rather sounds like incorrect size. Have a professional familiar with fitting stockings measure you. FYI, brands fit differently too. Hope this helps.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Sep 12, 2013

Doesn't sound like a problem.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Doesn't sound like a problem.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 12, 2013

This is probably normal since the stocking increases the pressure on the calf muscles. The fact that they don't bother you while you are wearing them indicates that they are fitting properly. Try taking ibuprofen and allow time for your leg to adapt to the stockings.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

This is probably normal since the stocking increases the pressure on the calf muscles. The fact that they don't bother you while you are wearing them indicates that they are fitting properly. Try taking ibuprofen and allow time for your leg to adapt to the stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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