The compression stockings I have are giving me pain, what can I do about this?

I am wearing a 30-40 mmHg thigh-high compression stocking after having laser ablation. At the top of this stocking near the groin, it hurts so much from the tightness and elastic top. Is there anything I can do or a purchase I can make so that the hose is more comfortable?

Answers from doctors (10)


More About Doctor Vein Specialists

Published on Jun 19, 2018

It is very important that compression hose are fitted correctly, so the first thing to do is to be sure you have the correct size. That being said, not everyone has legs that are the same shape and they can be difficult to wear for some people even with the correct size. We require 20-30 compression hose after our ablations here at Vein Specialists, so you should check with your surgeon to see if it is OK to consider a lighter level of compression which may help with discomfort as well. Please visit our website at Weknowveins.com for more information.

Answered by Vein Specialists (View Profile)

It is very important that compression hose are fitted correctly, so the first thing to do is to be sure you have the correct size. That being said, not everyone has legs that are the same shape and they can be difficult to wear for some people even with the correct size. We require 20-30 compression hose after our ablations here at Vein Specialists, so you should check with your surgeon to see if it is OK to consider a lighter level of compression which may help with discomfort as well. Please visit our website at Weknowveins.com for more information.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Sheen Vein Institute

Published on Sep 27, 2013

Assuming your current stocking is the correct fit, you have two options: get a 20-30 mmHg thigh high compression stocking to wear in place of your current stocking, or not wear one. Wearing stockings post-endovenous laser ablation does not determine efficacy of the treatment; they only provide symptomatic help. So, if you decide to go without the stockings, make it a point to walk as much as you can. Walking helps with circulation and can thus help you heal.

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Answered by The Sheen Vein Institute

Assuming your current stocking is the correct fit, you have two options: get a 20-30 mmHg thigh high compression stocking to wear in place of your current stocking, or not wear one. Wearing stockings post-endovenous laser ablation does not determine efficacy of the treatment; they only provide symptomatic help. So, if you decide to go without the stockings, make it a point to walk as much as you can. Walking helps with circulation and can thus help you heal.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Sep 24, 2013

This is a common complaint when the compression stocking band is very tight. I recommend placing a sock, wash rag or similar cloth item under the band to relieve the pressure.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

This is a common complaint when the compression stocking band is very tight. I recommend placing a sock, wash rag or similar cloth item under the band to relieve the pressure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Sep 24, 2013

You can stop wearing them or get a better fitting pair.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

You can stop wearing them or get a better fitting pair.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Sep 24, 2013

If hose are measured and fitted correctly they should not be "tight." However, in some people, there is discomfort from the inflammation caused by the energy of the laser. I would recommend placing a pad of some kind (kotex works well) inside the hose, keep the hose pulled up as high as possible, and apply ice packs for 10 minutes as often as possible. If you haven't been prescribed ibuprofen, this can help reduce inflammation.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

If hose are measured and fitted correctly they should not be "tight." However, in some people, there is discomfort from the inflammation caused by the energy of the laser. I would recommend placing a pad of some kind (kotex works well) inside the hose, keep the hose pulled up as high as possible, and apply ice packs for 10 minutes as often as possible. If you haven't been prescribed ibuprofen, this can help reduce inflammation.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Sep 23, 2013

Try 20-30 mmhg stockings.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Try 20-30 mmhg stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Published on Sep 23, 2013

Yes, you can get a RX to go to a medical supply store. Juzo is a great brand of compression hose

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Answered by Vein Clinic of North Carolina

Yes, you can get a RX to go to a medical supply store. Juzo is a great brand of compression hose

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Milford Vascular Institute

Published on Sep 23, 2013

You can try layering a pair of bicycle shorts or spanx under the stocking. However, if the band is too tight, it may aggravate it further. You may need a larger sized stocking.

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Answered by Milford Vascular Institute

You can try layering a pair of bicycle shorts or spanx under the stocking. However, if the band is too tight, it may aggravate it further. You may need a larger sized stocking.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Sep 23, 2013

You will need either less compression (20-30mmHg) or a larger size.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

You will need either less compression (20-30mmHg) or a larger size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 23, 2013

30-40mmHg compression is probably too tight for you and is unnecessary. I recommend 20-3-mmHg compression to my patients and they only wear them for 48 hours post completion.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

30-40mmHg compression is probably too tight for you and is unnecessary. I recommend 20-3-mmHg compression to my patients and they only wear them for 48 hours post completion.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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