- What is compression hosiery?
- What conditions can be helped by using compression hosiery?
- How do I know if I might benefit from compression hosiery?
- I have no medical conditions, why would I need compression hosiery?
- How long are my compression stockings expected to last?
- What are Anti Embolism Stockings (A.E.S.)?
- Will I get the same compression from sheer fabric stockings as I will from the thicker opaque fabric stockings?
- How & when is it best to measure myself or be measured?
- Do I need a prescription for these stockings?
- Can I sleep in my stockings?
- Why will my stockings not stay up?
- I struggle to get my stockings on & off, what can I do?
- What if I only need a support stocking for a condition in one leg?
- I cannot find a size which fits, what can I do?
What is compression hosiery?
Compression hosiery is a product to aid medical & non-medical conditions in legs. It gives the support required to aid blood to circulate through the veins allowing relief from painful symptoms caused by poor blood flow.
| Top |What conditions can be helped by using compression hosiery?
Varicose veins, spider veins, venous insufficiency, phlebitis, chronic ankle & leg swelling, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), economy class syndrome (ECS), heredity conditions, a previous injury or surgery to name but a few.
| Top |How do I know if I might benefit from compression hosiery?
A visit to your doctor or medical professional is the best way to obtain the correct advice as to whether or not you will benefit from compression hosiery.
Your doctor/ medical professional will also be able to assist you on the appropriate level of compression required for your condition.
| Top |I have no medical conditions, why would I need compression hosiery?
You may benefit if you are a frequent flyer, an athlete, pregnant or just suffer from tired, aching legs or swollen ankles through your lifestyle, usually from standing or sitting for long periods, for example office workers, shop assistants, teachers, nurses etc.
A new study found that 34% of patients admitted to hospital with blood clots had been seated at work for long periods.
| Top |How long are my compression stockings expected to last?
Approximately three months with daily use if washed & cared for correctly; see manufacturer’s guidelines.
It is recommended that gloves be worn when putting on & taking off the hosiery.
Please Note : Over a period of time the compression in your stockings will gradually reduce; if you are finding it easier to get your stocking on they may well be ready for replacing. We advise you make a note of your purchase date, and buy a new pair of stockings when required in order to get the best results from your hosiery.
| Top |What are Anti Embolism Stockings (A.E.S.)?
Also known as T.E D. stockings, these are mainly used in hospitals for patients who are immobile or are recovering from surgery.
| Top |Will I get the same compression from sheer fabric stockings as I will from the thicker opaque fabric stockings?
Yes. Both provide the same quality and level of compression.
| Top |How & when is it best to measure myself or be measured?
It is recommended that your bare limbs are measured where possible, as early in the day as possible as measurements taken later in the day may be incorrect due to natural swelling.
Please take measurements whilst standing if it is possible for you to do so.
| Top |Do I need a prescription for these stockings?
Although some of the stockings that we supply are available on prescription, for instance, the Credalast range, they are also available to purchase directly from us via this website or from our telephone order-line.
| Top |Can I sleep in my stockings?
Generally your stockings are made to be put on first thing in the morning and take them off when you go to bed. Only sleep in your hose when your doctor or nurse has instructed you to do so.
| Top |Why will my stockings not stay up?
It could be that your stockings are just too big. Very often people buy a larger size stocking because they feel that the compression is too tight. This is incorrect and it is sometimes better to reduce compression in this instance (please always seek medical advice before altering compression or size).
The stockings should be eased into position on the leg until the stockings fit evenly. If you overstretch the top of the stockings they will slide down. If this happens, take the stockings down to the ankle and pull them up again, stretching evenly. If this is not done it could also result in wrinkles in the stockings which can be painful.
Under no circumstances should you ever fold your stockings over as this will make a tight band reducing the flow of blood which will increase swelling.
If your stockings are not self-supporting you can support your stocking with a suspender belt, “Y” shaped suspenders for trousers (these will need buttons stitching to the waistband) both are available on prescription or you may purchase a water-soluble body-adhesive.
| Top |I struggle to get my stockings on & off, what can I do?
Use our award winning Easy Slide application and removal aids these are very easy to use; see the demonstration videos on the product pages.
Application aids are designed to reduce physical strain for yourself and/ or carers, and reduce your dependency on others.
| Top |What if I only need a support stocking for a condition in one leg?
Only the affected leg will require compression, although you may decide to wear the same brand of stocking in a lower compression level on the unaffected/healthy leg to give a similar appearance.
Always verify with your physician that the problem is present in only one leg.
| Top |I cannot find a size which fits, what can I do?
We have a Made-To-Measure hosiery service, some of which is available on prescription.
