Painful/Sensitive skin after removing stockings?

I wear knee-high compression stockings occassionally for swollen ankles and feet. Why is the skin on my lower legs VERY painful/sensitive to the touch after removing the stockings. Stays painful for about a day. Is this even normal?

Answers from doctors (4)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jul 07, 2017

It's difficult to say unless you have arterial/nerve issues. It is unusual to have this. Are the hose correctly fitted? A better quality hose, measured by someone who is experienced rarely cause problems.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

It's difficult to say unless you have arterial/nerve issues. It is unusual to have this. Are the hose correctly fitted? A better quality hose, measured by someone who is experienced rarely cause problems.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lafayette Regional Vein & Laser Center

Published on Feb 16, 2012

This is an interesting question.

Not all stockings are made the same. The variations are so great, that we commonly have patients sharing they couldn't stand the compression they bought over the counter, but when we put them in a quality garment they simply cannot believe the difference. There are a number of stocking companies that meet a higher standard for their stockings as seen in Europe. You might just have the wrong stocking for your problem.

I would have to ask what your swelling is from. Generally speaking, you should not have foot swelling related to veins, yet it is common with lymphedema. If you do not have a diagnosis, I would ask you to see your doctor for a recommendation for a vein specialist in your area. He/She should be able to perform an ultrasound study to identify if you have a vein problem, and point you in the right direction if you don't.
Ultimately if you typically have swelling at the end of the day or routinely, it is getting an accurate diagnosis and a properly manufactured and fitted compression device that will help.
Best wishes

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Answered by Lafayette Regional Vein & Laser Center

This is an interesting question.

Not all stockings are made the same. The variations are so great, that we commonly have patients sharing they couldn't stand the compression they bought over the counter, but when we put them in a quality garment they simply cannot believe the difference. There are a number of stocking companies that meet a higher standard for their stockings as seen in Europe. You might just have the wrong stocking for your problem.

I would have to ask what your swelling is from. Generally speaking, you should not have foot swelling related to veins, yet it is common with lymphedema. If you do not have a diagnosis, I would ask you to see your doctor for a recommendation for a vein specialist in your area. He/She should be able to perform an ultrasound study to identify if you have a vein problem, and point you in the right direction if you don't.
Ultimately if you typically have swelling at the end of the day or routinely, it is getting an accurate diagnosis and a properly manufactured and fitted compression device that will help.
Best wishes

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Feb 13, 2012

No Idea haven't heard of this. I suppose a possible allergy, but without rash this is unlikely.
You might try a stocking of a different material. Sigvaris as well as other make some stockings of cotton, perhaps this might work better for you.
Michael D. Ingegno, MD

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

No Idea haven't heard of this. I suppose a possible allergy, but without rash this is unlikely.
You might try a stocking of a different material. Sigvaris as well as other make some stockings of cotton, perhaps this might work better for you.
Michael D. Ingegno, MD

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Feb 13, 2012

Stockings should NOT cause pain or increased sensitivity. If these symptoms occur after wearing supp hose then the stockings fit inappropriately-most likely too tight. Also there may be an underlying problem in you legs that is exacerbated by the pressure of the stockings. I would recommend that you be evaluated by a vascular surgeon and do not wear these stockings.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Stockings should NOT cause pain or increased sensitivity. If these symptoms occur after wearing supp hose then the stockings fit inappropriately-most likely too tight. Also there may be an underlying problem in you legs that is exacerbated by the pressure of the stockings. I would recommend that you be evaluated by a vascular surgeon and do not wear these stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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