I have noticed that when I wear compression hose the back of my upper legs feel better but my calves and lower legs feel worse (burning and aching). I know compression stockings are supposed to help the whole leg. Do you have any suggestions?
There are a number of reasons why this could be the case. To determine the answer(s), consult with a physician.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The most common cause of these symptoms would be improperly fitted compression hose. Get remeasured for hose, try hose with less compression and/or try a different brand of hose.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The compression stockings may be too tight or you may have arterial insufficiency. See your doctor for an evaluation.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Compression stockings can offer relief, but only temporarily. In order to better understand what is going on, you need to have your leg further evaluated.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Make sure the hose are fitted right.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It's very important to make sure that the compression stockings fit properly. I would recommend getting remeasured. Also, I would suggest making sure you have the correct diagnosis. Stockings are great for venous insufficiency, but not for peripheral arterial disease.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The fit of the stocking may not be correct. Switching to another brand could help. Most of my patients only wear knee-high hose.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I suspect the stockings are not properly fitted. Perhaps they are too tight.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The simple answer is that they either don't fit properly or your leg symptoms are due to something that support stockings won't help. If your stockings are too loose from the knee down or have lost their compression, then you may get these symptoms. If you have an underlying arterial problem, then the stockings could actually worsen the issue. You should follow up with your treating physician.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Not sure. You might want to try a different brand and make sure the fit is proper. Also, you could get a lighter grade compression.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If your hose are correctly measured and fitted by a certified fitter, they should not cause such discomfort. It is important during the day to occasionally pull up the hose from the ankle to the knee in case they have "crept" down a little. This keeps the compression correct. The compression should also be appropriate. If you are wearing them for maintenance, 15-20 mmHg is adequate. If you have some venous insufficiency, smaller/less extensive varicose or spider veins, 20-30 mmHg is better. If you have a more severe insufficiency and varicose veins, you may be prescribed 30-40 mmHg. You should discuss this with your physician if they are a prescription hose. I would recommend being refitted and measured. Additionally, think back to how long you've had the hose. Depending on the brand, most stockings will start to lose compression after 4 months.
Published on Jul 11, 2012