What are the easiest compression socks to put on?
30/40 mmHg compression socks were prescribed by my doctor, but I have great difficulty putting them on, and I end up wearing 20/30 mmHg because I can get them on. Should I keep trying the higher compression socks or continue with the lower pressure? It's for a DVT.
Answers from doctors (9)
I agree that 30-40 mmHg compression stockings are very difficult to wear and as a result, I always prescribe 20-30 mmHg for my patients.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
20 -30mmHg is probably fine.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Wearing hose that you can put on is the most important thing. If 20-30 mmHg is the highest you can put on, then that will have to do. I suspect this will likely be adequate.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Great question. Not all compression hose are the same quality. 30-40 mmHg is a great compression for DVT treatment and maintenance. The better quality hose (Sigvaris for eg) have more stretch and "memory" to return to the required compression. There are also techniques such as a foot slip if you have open-toe hose. Using gloves (disposable medical or rubber gloves) gives you better grip and will prevent damage to the hose. Additionally, make sure you have been correctly measured and fitted. Some companies have a better range of fittings. If you cannot manage a higher compression, 20-30 mmHg will be quite adequate. Your hose should be changed every 4-6 months (depending on the brand) to ensure they are still strong enough.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
20/30 mm Hg sounds good. You need to check with your doctor as there may be a reason why you were prescribed 30/40 mm Hg
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Compression stockings with 30 mmHg is appropriate for DVT patients.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The recommendation is usually 30 to 40 mm/hg after you are fully anti-coagulated for 2 years following a clot to prevent post-phlebitic syndrome. If you cannot put on the 30 to 40 mm/hg hose, then it is better to wear some hose than not to wear them at all. If you cannot handle the stronger ones, at least wear the 20 to 30 mm/hg and that should help.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Higher is better, unless you have associated peripheral arterial disease (measured by the ABI). These allow both superficial and deep veins to move blood back to the heart from the periphery.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The wearing of compression hose is the biggest complaint I have from patients. There are donning devices that may make application of the hose easier. If 20-40 mmHg is too hard to apply, then use the 20-30mmHg compression.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
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