My husband is having pain in his heel after wearing compression socks, is this normal?

My husband started wearing compression socks. They were measured and seemed to be the correct fit for his legs, but then he started having pain in his heel from the socks. Is this normal? He needs to keep wearing the socks.

Answers from doctors (7)


The Sheen Vein Institute

Published on Sep 27, 2013

Compression stockings can very easily cause pain in your husband's heels. Because they provide compression, they can easily rub his heels or any other part of his leg and cause pain. Normally, I would recommend either trying a lower compression stocking or stock wearing them, unless there is a specific medical reason to be wearing them.

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Answered by The Sheen Vein Institute

Compression stockings can very easily cause pain in your husband's heels. Because they provide compression, they can easily rub his heels or any other part of his leg and cause pain. Normally, I would recommend either trying a lower compression stocking or stock wearing them, unless there is a specific medical reason to be wearing them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Sep 18, 2013

He may need to cut out the heel of the compression stocking. Or, he can go back to the person who fitted him to see if the measurement and fit is appropriate.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

He may need to cut out the heel of the compression stocking. Or, he can go back to the person who fitted him to see if the measurement and fit is appropriate.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Sep 16, 2013

Your husband should return to the person who fitted him for the stockings so that he or she can ensure that the fit is correct. If he is still experiencing pain, then he may want to schedule an appointment with his treating physician.

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Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Your husband should return to the person who fitted him for the stockings so that he or she can ensure that the fit is correct. If he is still experiencing pain, then he may want to schedule an appointment with his treating physician.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Sep 16, 2013

This can happen, and it is usually from the stocking being a bit too tight around the foot. The easiest way to be sure is to take the stocking off briefly and see if the pain goes away. If not, have him contact his doctor.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

This can happen, and it is usually from the stocking being a bit too tight around the foot. The easiest way to be sure is to take the stocking off briefly and see if the pain goes away. If not, have him contact his doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Sep 16, 2013

If measured and fitted correctly, he should not experience discomfort from the socks. There are many different socks on the market and each have different quality levels. Some hose are just not right for an individual. He may just have to try a few brands to find what works, especially if he needs to be in them for an extended period of time. I usually find an open-toe hose is more comfortable, especially for men, as it doesn't create tension on the foot. Depending upon the compression he needs, there are also hose which are more like a regular sock with some cushioning in the foot, some cotton based, some wool or high quality synthetics. Additionally, he should remove them at bedtime or try removing if sitting with his legs elevated in the evening. He could also try wearing a cushion sock over the top. He will just have to try to find what works for him.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

If measured and fitted correctly, he should not experience discomfort from the socks. There are many different socks on the market and each have different quality levels. Some hose are just not right for an individual. He may just have to try a few brands to find what works, especially if he needs to be in them for an extended period of time. I usually find an open-toe hose is more comfortable, especially for men, as it doesn't create tension on the foot. Depending upon the compression he needs, there are also hose which are more like a regular sock with some cushioning in the foot, some cotton based, some wool or high quality synthetics. Additionally, he should remove them at bedtime or try removing if sitting with his legs elevated in the evening. He could also try wearing a cushion sock over the top. He will just have to try to find what works for him.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Sep 16, 2013

Pain is a frequent complaint that comes with wearing compression stockings. Make sure he does not wear them in bed. Walking may help. If not, have him see his doctor.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

Pain is a frequent complaint that comes with wearing compression stockings. Make sure he does not wear them in bed. Walking may help. If not, have him see his doctor.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 16, 2013

It is not normal to have heel pain after or when wearing compression stockings. Even though he was measured, he should return to be refitted. If the stockings are uncomfortable or painful, then they will not be worn and this will negate the benefits of the stockings.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

It is not normal to have heel pain after or when wearing compression stockings. Even though he was measured, he should return to be refitted. If the stockings are uncomfortable or painful, then they will not be worn and this will negate the benefits of the stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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