Should I wear thigh-high compression stockings instead of knee-high stockings? I am a mail carrier who sits in a car 5-6 hours a day.

I am a mail carrier who sits in my car 5-6 hours a day. I already wear knee stockings, but the back of my leg hurts above the bend in knee. Why? Should I be wearing thigh-high stockings instead?

Answers from doctors (5)


Teton Vascular Institute

Published on Sep 12, 2016

Yes. If you are experiencing discomfort higher than the knee-high stockings, it is advisable to wear thigh-high instead. To answer the "why" of your question: You could have venous insufficiency in your legs. It is advisable for you to go see a physician at the vein institute to get a diagnostic exam to verify whether or not you have reflux in your veins. There is treatment available to fix that issue.

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Answered by Teton Vascular Institute

Yes. If you are experiencing discomfort higher than the knee-high stockings, it is advisable to wear thigh-high instead. To answer the "why" of your question: You could have venous insufficiency in your legs. It is advisable for you to go see a physician at the vein institute to get a diagnostic exam to verify whether or not you have reflux in your veins. There is treatment available to fix that issue.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Sep 09, 2016

You can try a thigh-length for comfort. Ensure it is correctly measured and fitted and of good quality. Make sure you stretch it well through the knee. Also, try a soft seat cushion. It may just be pressure from the seat.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

You can try a thigh-length for comfort. Ensure it is correctly measured and fitted and of good quality. Make sure you stretch it well through the knee. Also, try a soft seat cushion. It may just be pressure from the seat.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Published on Sep 09, 2016

Compression stockings are designed to help venous blood flow from the foot up towards the torso. I typically recommend knee-high instead of thigh-high stockings because most patients report significant comfort when worn properly.

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Answered by Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Compression stockings are designed to help venous blood flow from the foot up towards the torso. I typically recommend knee-high instead of thigh-high stockings because most patients report significant comfort when worn properly.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 09, 2016

The calf muscle pump contributes 85% of the venous return, and the thigh only 15%. There is no need to wear anything higher than over the calf compression for your line of work. Why the back of your knee hurts is unclear. This should be evaluated.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The calf muscle pump contributes 85% of the venous return, and the thigh only 15%. There is no need to wear anything higher than over the calf compression for your line of work. Why the back of your knee hurts is unclear. This should be evaluated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Sep 09, 2016

Knee-high compression is adequate for everyday use, but if you prefer thigh-high, that is okay as well.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

Knee-high compression is adequate for everyday use, but if you prefer thigh-high, that is okay as well.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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