Compression Stockings?

Published

Hi all :) I am a new grad and starting my first job as a BSN, RN in a couple of weeks on a med surg unit. I have heard many nurses suggest compression stockings and some others say they didn't care for them.....So what are your thoughts/opinions on compression stockings? And if you like them, what is your favorite brand??

Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

When I used to wear compression hose, I wore the medical-grade Medline brand.

I no longer wear them because my legs don't swell anymore. I've found that drinking 60 ounces of fluids per day keeps the bilateral lower leg swelling away.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CCU, SICU, CVSICU, Precepting & Teaching.

Compression stockings make my legs ache. I've tried several brands, and hated them all.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CVICU CCRN.

I wear sockwell also because I love the wool/bamboo blend. My life totally changed when I started wearing wool socks....summer and winter. I alternate the sockwell's with runner's compression calf sleeves. I love the sleeves best....higher compression, breathable, and great for standing (I'm in the OR so occasionally get stuck in one position for long periods).

My experience with compression products is that they help with recovery more than anything. I don't really have circulation problems at this point though, even though I'm over 40. Good genes I guess, as this isn't my first physically demanding job. For me personally, the higher compression the better. I like a minimum of the 20-30 mmHg. I find the less expensive, lower compression stockings don't do much and sometimes chafe. You can find the sockwell brand on Amazon for as low as $12/pair, which is a substantial discount. For sleeves I like CEP and Meister. Good luck!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm quite partial to compression socks by Swiftwick. They're for running, but I'm a runner sooooo. I'd also recommend going with a shoe that provides LESS cushioning, which is counterintuitive. If you do this, focus on less of a heel-strike. Your feet will hate you for a while until they get used to it. Shoes today make us heel strike and cause more problems. Our bodies weren't made for that.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Compression socks drove me nuts! But I do wear compression calf sleeves and they are amazing!!! I bought mine at a local running/athletic store. They're great because I can wear normal socks with them; the full compression socks irritated my feet.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I wear the Nurse Mates brand medical grade compression HOSE see here: Medical Compression - Nude - Nurse Mates Womens

I tried socks and stockings and found both simply rolled down my legs and left a nasty and painful indentation. The nurse mates hose have held up ok, the only runs were caused by me pulling too hard on them and I definitely do not have the swelling and dead legs feeling I was plagued with after a shift before I started wearing them.

IMPORTANT make sure to get the correct size (look at the size chart in the link I provided) I bought one pair that were a size too small and this resulted in some discomfort in the inner thighs as some of the weave broke down due to my thigh-aliciousness ;). I'm also not a fan of tight waistbands, so I made a vertical cut on both sides of the waistband above my hips and they are about as comfy as hose can be. Just be sure not to make the cut too long or the band will stop holding up the hose :).

I LOVE the seams around the toes... they are super comfy and reinforced and the hose really support the feet.

Anyway, just my two cents. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I wear compression socks when I work 12 hour shift or 8 hour shift. they are life savers. This is the one I use. they are great and copper infused, anti-odor compression sock. Amazon.com: Primary Health Sports Best Compression Copper Socks - Great for Men, Women, Travelers, Nurses, Pregnancy - Protect & Support your Calves, Ankles, and Feet. Graduated Compression. 15-2

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion