Compression Hose - What compression gradient is best? Do any come in petite?

Trekfan · Jun 9, 2011

Hi All,
After 2 years of working on my feet for 12hr shifts, I've developed spider veins throughout my thighs and have noticed a varicose vein forming behind a knee. I want to buy compression hose but don't know what gradient is best: 15-20mmHG, 20-30mmHG, or 30-40mmHG? The problem for me is that I'm only 4'11'' and 95lbs. All the 15-20mmHG hoses I've found online only come in sizes S,M,L. I'm afraid the S will be a bit too big and the hose will not work properly.
I've found petite sizes in the 30-40mmHG but can too much compression do more damage than good?
Does anyone know what compression gradient is best for preventing spider and varicose veins?
Do any 15-20mmHG or 20-30mmHG come in petite(short) sizes
What type of exercise is best? Cardiac or weight lifting
Anything else I can do to prevent or treat the spider & varicose veins (other than the laser surgery)
What type of doctor usually treats this problem? Dermatology? Vascular?
Thanks so much for your help!

For varicose veins 30-40 unless you have DM then just use 20-30 for both of these you will need an rx annd i would start with the 20-30 . I would not buy any online unless you have been fitted because if your off on the size they will ether not work or will cut off the bllod to your feet and be painful (trust me on that) just call up you nearest med supply store and tell them you need

to be fitted .

They can order custom sizes and they do make them in cotton sock type witch i love !!!!!!!!!

txredheadnurse, BSN, RN · Jun 9, 2011

Long time user of compression hose here. You do NOT need an RX for compression hose unless your health insurance covers them and requires a prescription. To find a pharmacy or medical supplier in your area who can fit you with hose do a google search. They take a variety of measurements and there is a surprisingly large array of sizes available in most compression ranges. I would suggest, after you are measured, that you try a few different brands and find which one(s) work best for you. Personally I prefer Jobst brand. After you have been fitted then you have the option of buying your replacement pairs either at the local store or online.

I was referred to a dermatologist specializing in vascular issues for my initial consultation. They can do an assessment and determine the cause(s) of your vein issues. Regardless of the source of the cause there are some common things you can do to reduce the stress to your legs and feet. Take sitting breaks when you can, elevate your feet as often as you can, wear the compression during your entire waking hours and not just on work days, get fitted for good supportive shoes to lessen the stresses, make sure you don't wear clothing that compresses your waistline or legs too much to reduce the issue of compromised venous flow, keep the skin of your legs and feet moisturized to reduce the chance of irritation at the sites of vein issues. This issue is not limited to nurses or health care professionals. I have quite a few friends in retail that have similiar issues and most of them are firm believers in compression hose once they adjusted to wearing them. Stylish no. But then varicose veins and spider veins aren't exactly stylish either.

metabolicfrolic · Jun 9, 2011

I am a total believer in compression hose. 10 - 20 feels best to me. They make a big difference in how my legs feel after a long shift. Over the years I've purchased all different kinds: the white nursing hose, knee highs, socks. For the most support, obviously that award goes to the hose, but being someone who is constantly running around (read: HOT) those make me uncomfortable with a quickness. Tights make my scrub pants fit tighter, and that's not a good thing either.

The most supportive non-tights are a pair of navy ribbed trouser socks. I think they are these (no navy option at Marcus): http://www.marcusuniforms.com/Prestige-Medical-Womens-Compression-Socks-P3238.aspx . In fact, I have them on right now! For the OP, I'm short too - 5'2" or so, and these aren't too long. The only drawback for me is that I usually have to wear a pair of socks over the foot as these are thin.

I also have these, but they aren't quite as supportive. They are a bit too long for me (http://www.marcusuniforms.com/Nurse-Mates-White-Dragonfly-Trouser-Sock-P4398.aspx)- the tops come over my knee caps and I have to fold them over a bit.

Definitely call around and see what your local uniform store has in stock. I wish more nurses knew to wear these! They will save your legs!

ToughingItOut · Jun 9, 2011

Agreed! I love the knitted ribbed type of support socks. I used to wear full support hose...but I don't dread wearing the socks, and they still feel fairly comfortable by the end of your shift (and you'll be so glad you wore them)! :redpinkhe

divaRN* · Jun 10, 2011

Loveee them! I do not have any circulation problems but I wear Teds every shift and the one time i didnt wear them i was so uncomfortable. I even wear them when flying (DVT prevention!) :)

(not sure on the compression gradient. sorry)

HippieGypsyGirl · Jun 10, 2011

I was looking into this and my instructor said they can cut off blood supply if you use the socks. I don't like hose. What to do?

freemirini · Jun 10, 2011

Love compression hose....Allegro thigh highs 20-30mmHg from BrightLifeDirect.com....no script necessary. You measure yourself and choose size accordingly. I called and asked for advice as I was near two sizes. I was given good advice.

Trekfan · Jun 10, 2011

I was looking into this and my instructor said they can cut off blood supply if you use the socks. I don't like hose. What to do?

odd I was told the other way around ?,the socks seem to be loser to me, and I had to order the stoccking toeless due to the presser on my toes . So witch way is right ?