Should I be refitted for bigger compression stockings?

I really cant get them up or off. I thought something was wrong when it took 3 male nurses to pull them on. Is this normal/ after surgery? I had bilateral endovenous ablation. The compression socks they put on are so tight; they cut off the blood flow. It took 3 male nurses to pull them up. I can't put them up or on either. Is this normal? Should I be refitted for a larger stocking?

Answers from doctors (7)


Boris Bergus, M.D.

Published on Feb 02, 2016

You may need a different size and should be remeasured.

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Answered by Boris Bergus, M.D.

You may need a different size and should be remeasured.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Feb 01, 2016

Yes, get refitted for bigger compression stockings.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Yes, get refitted for bigger compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Jan 28, 2016

It sounds like you should be refitted.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

It sounds like you should be refitted.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Jan 28, 2016

Not all compression hose are created equal. There are some brands whose fabrics do not have very much stretch. Many centers use an inexpensive brand, which has less stretch. This makes them harder to get on and especially off. You should be measured and fitted in the standing position and the appropriate hose chosen then. We like Bauerfeind or Sigvaris as they have "memory" and some stretch, which makes the application and removal easier. The hose should be comfortable and not constrictive but firm and supportive.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Not all compression hose are created equal. There are some brands whose fabrics do not have very much stretch. Many centers use an inexpensive brand, which has less stretch. This makes them harder to get on and especially off. You should be measured and fitted in the standing position and the appropriate hose chosen then. We like Bauerfeind or Sigvaris as they have "memory" and some stretch, which makes the application and removal easier. The hose should be comfortable and not constrictive but firm and supportive.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Destin Vein Center

Published on Jan 28, 2016

Yes, it sounds as though you have the wrong size.

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Answered by Destin Vein Center

Yes, it sounds as though you have the wrong size.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Published on Jan 28, 2016

Often, getting stockings on someone else is very difficult unless you use a donning device. I would go to a medical supply store and have them measure the narrowest part of your ankle and widest part of your calf and see if you are in the right size for you.

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Answered by Susan B Fox, D.O. RPVI, FSVM

Often, getting stockings on someone else is very difficult unless you use a donning device. I would go to a medical supply store and have them measure the narrowest part of your ankle and widest part of your calf and see if you are in the right size for you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jan 28, 2016

Compression stockings are usually difficult to get on. There are little tricks to applying them, such as wearing rubber gloves when applying. The sock companies also make donner appliances to assist in helping to put them on. If all of this is not possible, then you may need a better fitting hose.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Compression stockings are usually difficult to get on. There are little tricks to applying them, such as wearing rubber gloves when applying. The sock companies also make donner appliances to assist in helping to put them on. If all of this is not possible, then you may need a better fitting hose.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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