As a cardiovascular surgeon, I frequently recommend compression stockings to address vein conditions like varicose veins or edema. While these stockings offer significant benefits, putting them on and taking them off can be a challenging task, especially for individuals with limited mobility or dexterity. Here I'll share practical tools gathered from years of experience to make using compression stockings more manageable.
Wearing Thin Socks: A Seamless Start
The first suggestion I have for putting on compression stockings more easily is the one that I have personally been using for years. It's a simple yet effective trick. Wear a thin pair of socks that go up to at least the lower calf, then put on your compression stockings over the socks This layering allows the stockings to slide on more smoothly, reducing friction and making the process less cumbersome. Additionally, you can try applying a small amount of powder to your legs or the sock before donning the stockings further. It helps minimize resistance so that they slide on more easily.
Rubber Gloves for Improved Grip: A Helping Hand
For those facing difficulty grasping the stockings, invest in a pair of higher-quality rubber gloves. Sturdy gloves with a good grip, such as cleaning gloves, provide traction, making it easier to pull up tight-fitting compression stockings. The enhanced grip can significantly alleviate the struggle, offering a simple yet effective solution. Thin exam gloves just don't work as well.
Sock Sliders
A sock slider is a mechanical aid in donning stockings. There are a variety of different options for sock sliders. One of the advantages of the sock slider is that you don't have to bend over and twist down at your ankle. For people with impaired low-back mobility, sock sliders can be a real advantage.
Streamlining the Process with Sock-eeze
Explore the world of sock sliders, particularly tools like Sock-eeze, which act as giant shoehorns designed to facilitate the effortless sliding on and off of compression stockings. These innovative devices prove particularly beneficial for individuals who find it challenging to bend over or have limited hand function. The video below (from Sock-eeze on YouTube) demonstrates how to use their device. We hope you find it helpful!
Stocking Butlers and Donners: Assisting Limited Mobility
Individuals facing mobility challenges or difficulty bending over can also turn to stocking butlers or donners. These devices not only hold the stocking open for easy foot insertion but also aid in pulling the stocking up the leg. They really do help, but you have to have enough hand strength to pull the stocking onto the butler, and then pull the stocking up your leg. If you are using it because of weak hand strength, it doesn't help taking the stocking off which can be a real struggle unless you have someone to help you.
Overcoming Removal Challenges: Solutions for Limited Hand Function
Removing compression stockings can present its own set of challenges, particularly for those with limited hand function due to injury or arthritis. In such cases, seeking assistance from a caregiver becomes crucial. Alternatively, products like Sock-eeze can prove beneficial in wedging the stocking back off. If you still struggle with putting them on or taking them off, even with assistance tools, I usually recommend slip-on stockings like Tubigrips or a Circ-aid that offer easier removal compared to traditional compression stockings. For people with weak hand strength, they can usually handle either Tubigrips or Circ-aid. For people who have limited mobility in reaching their ankles, what is most helpful is to have someone assist them.
You can see our page on compression stockings for more information as well as demonstration videos on how to more easily put compression stockings on and take them back off.
Unlocking the Full Benefits of Compression Stockings
Compression stockings really can provide significant relief for people suffering from a vein condition. I know from my own experience - I wore compression stockings every day for 25 years before I got treated. Wearing compression stockings becomes more manageable when you have tools and tips that make taking them on and off a little easier.
