The Best Way to Put On Compression Stockings

The most common reason for failing compression therapy is the difficulty in putting on the stockings.  This may be due to:

• loss of hand strength
• arthritis
• an inability to bend over
• unable to cross your legs
• other dexterity issues

It could also be due to the actual compression of the stocking.  For example, graduated compression hosiery has the tightest part of the stocking at the ankle; which makes it difficult to get them over your heel while putting them on.  These stockings are made by Jobst, Medi, Juzo and Sigvaris. There are a number of ways to get your compression stockings on:

• turning the sock inside out and, starting at your toes, inching them up your leg
• using rubber gloves to obtain a better grip on the stocking
• using a ridge sock aid
• using a stocking donner

Helpful Hints

• Put your stockings on first thing in the morning before your legs swell
• Make sure your legs are dry
• Do not use lotion on your legs before putting your stockings on - if you use lotion you should put it on at night before bed
• Powder on your legs may help

The easiest method I have found to put on compression stockings is the stocking donner.  A donner is a metal frame device that has two handles and an inner half tube to hold the stocking.  The word donner comes from the word don -- which means “to put on.”   The best donner I have used is the “Jobst Stocking Donner”.  There are other manufacturers of donners, but I like the coated metal (avoids snags to the stockings) and the padded handles.  The following is a step by step instruction on how to use the donner to put on your support stockings.

Watch this video showing “How to Use a Jobst Compression Stocking Donner”

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFSgOnWZJxo]

Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment has Certified Fitters at all of our seven Twin Cities locations • Burnsville • Maple Grove • Maplewood • St. Louis Park • Shakopee • St. Paul • Woodbury Our fitters can also assist in selecting your stockings, donning, compression, style, fabric and color.