What if Compression Stkgs are making my legs hurt worse?

Does this mean that there is something wrong other than varicose veins? It's mostly in my right leg. They make my legs itch, and I get burning sensations. It drives me so crazy I have to take them off! They are 15-20 mmHg and I was measured.

Answers from doctors (4)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jul 05, 2017

Not all hose are created equal. If you were measured, the fit should be correct. However, fit varies from brand to brand, as does the fabric. We carry all types of hose from diabetic, cotton, microfiber and all season wool. Ensure your skin on the legs is well hydrated with non-fragranced moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Aveeno. Make sure the hose are washed in plain soap, no fabric softeners/bleach or woolite. It may be you will have to try a different fabric. I recommend having your veins evaluated by a board certified vascualr surgeon to see if there is an underlying cause (reflux from damaged valves) and have this treated.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Not all hose are created equal. If you were measured, the fit should be correct. However, fit varies from brand to brand, as does the fabric. We carry all types of hose from diabetic, cotton, microfiber and all season wool. Ensure your skin on the legs is well hydrated with non-fragranced moisturizer such as Cetaphil or Aveeno. Make sure the hose are washed in plain soap, no fabric softeners/bleach or woolite. It may be you will have to try a different fabric. I recommend having your veins evaluated by a board certified vascualr surgeon to see if there is an underlying cause (reflux from damaged valves) and have this treated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


North Shore Vein Center

Published on Apr 04, 2012

One of the best criteria we use for distinguishing vein pain from other sources of leg pain is the response to compression therapy. If the stockings are fit properly, and your legs are worse or no better, get a more complete evaluation. Your symptoms are more likely to be a poorly fitted stocking or overly sensitive skin. Try a different stocking with a good skin moisturizer.

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Answered by North Shore Vein Center

One of the best criteria we use for distinguishing vein pain from other sources of leg pain is the response to compression therapy. If the stockings are fit properly, and your legs are worse or no better, get a more complete evaluation. Your symptoms are more likely to be a poorly fitted stocking or overly sensitive skin. Try a different stocking with a good skin moisturizer.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Apr 02, 2012

Discuss with treating MD.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Discuss with treating MD.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Apr 02, 2012

My most common complaint in the vein patient is related to compression stockingstoo loose, too tight, too hot, too short, etc. If your legs feel better without the stockings then the stockings are probably causing the symptoms. You need to follow up with your treating vein specialist to determine why you need the stockings and what is bing treated. You also need to find out if there is another problem causing your symptoms.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

My most common complaint in the vein patient is related to compression stockingstoo loose, too tight, too hot, too short, etc. If your legs feel better without the stockings then the stockings are probably causing the symptoms. You need to follow up with your treating vein specialist to determine why you need the stockings and what is bing treated. You also need to find out if there is another problem causing your symptoms.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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