Compression Stockings - Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust

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Compression
Stockings
An information guide
Compression Stockings
Introduction
You have been prescribed compression stockings either to treat
your varicose veins, to reduce venous hypertension or to prevent
the recurrence of a healed leg ulcer. Before being prescribed
compression stockings your circulation should have been assessed
using a Doppler ultrasound procedure (see Doppler Ultrasound
leaflet). If you have not had this assessment please ask the person
providing your care
How compression stockings work
Compression stockings can be used to either prevent venous leg
ulcers from occurring/reoccurring or to reduce the risk of further
damage to your veins. They work by applying external pressure to
your leg, which increases the blood flow back to your heart,
supports varicose veins, reduces pain and prevents fluid building up
in your leg which causes ankle swelling.
The rate of leg ulcers reoccurring without the use of compression
stockings after initial healing is as high as 76% in the first year.
Measuring for your stockings
Compression stockings are available through a variety of
manufacturers. Selection will be based on what best fits your
requirements. Although ordinary support tights and stockings are
sold in department stores and are useful for aching legs they are
not suitable for anyone with varicose veins or a healed leg ulcer.
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Compression stockings are available on prescription and come in
different types (below the knee or full leg) and can be supplied
within a few days from your local chemist. Occasionally the size of
the leg does not fall into the standard sizing and made to measure
hosiery is required. Please note that made to measure hosiery may
take up to 6 weeks and you will be treated with bandages until
your hosiery is available. Compression hosiery is available in
different strengths for example class 1, 2 and 3. The strength you
will need will be discussed following your assessment. You may be
able to choose from a limited range of colours or styles i.e. open or
closed toe.
Application
You must put your stockings on first thing in the morning before
your legs begin to swell.
1. Ensure that your foot is dry, if you use moisturisers apply the
night before.
2. Remove any jewellery that may snag the stocking.
3. Place your hand inside the stocking, pinch the heel between the
finger and thumb and turn the stocking inside out, leaving the foot
section tucked inside. Turn back the heel approximately 1 inch (2.5
cm).
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4. Holding the stocking in both hands, stretch and slip halfway over
the foot.
5. Turn back a one inch fold over the heel.
6. Gather the remaining stocking up and slide over the foot and
ankle.
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7. Stretch the stocking slowly up the leg working in sections, until
the stocking is fitted in place.
8. Pull the stocking back down to your ankle with a twisting
motion, take sections of the stocking back up the leg again,as this
will ensure the stocking remains in place.
9. Check that the toe section is not restricted in any way.
10. Your stocking should fit smoothly with no creases or wrinkles.
11. When you are wearing thigh length stockings it may be
necessary to wear a suspender belt.
Removal
Remove the stocking where possible/advised before going to bed.
When taking off the stocking, gently ease the stocking down the
leg taking care not to damage any skin.
Washing stockings
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when washing your
stockings. Do not use fabric conditioner when washing or tumble
dry the compression stockings.
How long do they last?
Compression stockings usually last three months. Before ordering a
new pair ensure your healthcare professional remeasures your legs.
In most cases stockings will be prescribed as a pair, one for wear and
one for wash or if you have different size legs. Prescription charges
are for each stocking, not a pair.
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General advice
1. Never wear somebody else’s hosiery.
2. Some people may be sensitive to the stocking; if your leg
becomes red, inflamed, itchy or painful, contact your healthcare
professional immediately.
3. Check that your finger and toe nails are free from rough edges.
4. It is important to be monitored regularly, please ensure you
attend your clinic appointments.
5. A number of of stocking applicators are available. Please ask your
healthcare professional for information.
6. Don’t forget to exericse daily and continue to raise your legs
when sitting.
7. If you knock your leg or notice a bruise to your skin, contact your
healthcare professional immediately.
Further Advice
If you have any concerns or think you may be developing another
ulcer, contact your healthcare professional immediately. For
further advice and information, please contact your healthcare
professional at:
............................................................................................................
Tel: .....................................................................................................
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If English is not your frst
language and you need help,
please contact the Ethnic Health
Team on 0161 627 8770
Jeżeli angielski nie jest twoim pierwszym językiem i potrzebujesz pomocy proszę skontaktować
się z załogą Ethnic Health pod numerem telefonu 0161 627 8770
For general enquiries please contact the Patient
Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 0161 604 5897
For enquiries regarding clinic appointments, clinical care and
treatment please contact 0161 624 0420 and the Switchboard
Operator will put you through to the correct department / service
Date of publication: August 2006
Date of review: April 2014
Date of next review: April 2017
Ref: PI_SU_104
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