How to Wear Compression Socks

Co-authored by Vlad Gendelman, MD

Last Updated: September 25, 2024 Approved

Compression socks can help improve circulation, prevent blood from pooling in the legs, and help relieve symptoms associated with deep vein thrombosis, skin ulcers, and varicose veins. To get the right pair of compression socks, talk to your doctor about what compression level is best for you. Exercise care when putting on or taking off compression socks, and make sure you wear them as directed.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing the Right Compression Socks

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1
Ask your doctor which compression level is right for you. Compression socks come in 4 main compression levels. Each level is measured in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg. Socks rated at a higher mmHg will have a higher compression level.^{[1]
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- Mild compression socks are rated 8-15 mmHg.
- For moderate compression, try a sock rated 15-20 mmHg.
- Firm compression socks have a rating of 20-30 mmHg.
- For extra firm compression, opt for a sock with a rating of 30-40 mmHg.
The first measurement you will need to take is the circumference of your ankle. Take a tape measure and place it around the narrowest part of your ankle. The tape measure should be positioned just above your anklebone. Record the measurement.
The second measurement you will need is the circumference of your calf. Take a tape measure and place it around the widest part of your calf. Take note of the measurement.
The final measurement you will take is the length of your calf, from the bend in your knee to the bottom of your heel. Sit on a chair and position your leg in a 90-degree angle. Measure the distance from the bend of your knee to the floor. Record the measurement.
If your doctor prescribed thigh high compression socks, you will need to measure the widest part of your thigh. You will also need to measure your leg length by measuring the distance between the floor and the bottom of your buttocks.
Once you have completed all three measurements, you can use them to decide what size compression sock is right for you. Compare the measurements to the sizing chart listed on the manufacturer’s website or on the compression sock package. Size up if you are between sizes.
A change in body weight may signal it’s time for a different size of compression sock. If you lose or gain weight, make sure you measure yourself again and purchase new socks if necessary.^{[2]
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Part 2

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Putting on and Taking Off Compression Socks

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Reach into the compression sock with one hand and grab the toe of the sock. Then use your hands to turn the upper half of the compression sock inside out.^{[3]
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Once you have the compression sock turned inside out, gently place your foot in the toe of the sock. Then slide the stocking up over your heel. Make sure the top of the stocking remains inside out.^{[4]
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Once your heel is securely inside the sock, gently slide the sock up your leg. Do this as slowly and gently as possible to prevent tearing holes in the stocking or stretching it out.^{[5]
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Pulling on the top of a compression sock may cause the sock to rip. Never attempt to put on compression socks by pulling them on by the top of the sock. This can also cause unwanted stretching of the fabric.
If you have trouble sliding the compression sock up or down your leg, try wearing a pair of rubber gloves. The gloves can help create some resistance, which will make putting compression socks on or taking them off a bit easier.^{[6]
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When it’s time to take off your compression sock, fold it down gently until it reaches the top of the ankle. Then insert your finger or thumb inside the back of the stocking on your heel. Use your finger or thumb to pop the stocking off your heel and then slide the rest of the stocking off your foot.^{[7]
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Part 3

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Wearing and Caring for Compression Socks

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Your legs are less swollen when you wake up, which means the compression socks will be easier to put on. Try putting the socks on as soon as you wake, even before you get out of bed.^{[8]
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To get the most from your compression socks, you will want to wear them for the entire day. Wearing the compression socks all day long will help improve circulation, keeping blood flowing steadily while you are awake.^{[9]
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Unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise, you should take the compression socks off before you go to bed each night. Do not sleep in compression socks unless your doctor instructs you to do so. You should also remove compression socks before bathing.^{[10]
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When you buy a new pair of compression socks, make sure you hand wash the socks before putting them on. This will make the fabric more flexible, which means the socks will be easier to put on. Try hand washing them in cool water with a mild laundry detergent.^{[11]
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5
Replace compression socks every 3-6 months. Since you will be wearing compression socks most of the time, they will wear out over several months. To make sure your compression socks are still doing their job, replace them every 3-6 months with a new pair.^{[12]
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- Replace socks that are stretched out or have holes in them, regardless of how old they are.
If possible you should wash compression socks after each use. Hand wash the socks in cool water and use a mild laundry detergent. Allow them to air dry.