Compression stockings are tight-fitting stockings.
They can help treat or prevent problems caused by poor blood flow in the legs.
There are different types of stockings, and they need to fit right.
Some are called graduated stockings because they are tightest at the foot and less tight farther up on your leg.
Your doctor can tell you what you need.
It can be a little tricky to put them on at first.
But once you practice a few times, you'll get better at it.
Here are some tips.
Put them on in the morning before there's swelling in your legs.
Using gloves that improve your grip may make this easier.
Step one is to turn the stocking inside out so it's easier to put on over your foot.
Here's how.
Sit on a firm bench or chair where your feet can touch the ground.
Hold the top of the stocking with one hand.
Then with your other hand, reach inside the stocking and grab the heel.
When you have a firm grip on the heel, pull your hand back up through the stocking, turning it inside out as far as the heel.
Step two: Now you'll pull the stocking on in small sections.
Put your toes in as far as they will go.
Then align your heel with the heel cup in the stocking and pull it up slightly, just around your heel.
Then, working in short sections, use both hands to grasp the folded part of the stocking.
Pull that section up over your ankle.
Next, from above your ankle, grasp the stocking below the fold.
Pull that section up.
Continue pulling the stocking up in these short sections until it is in its final position.
Depending on the stocking, the final position may be just below or just above your knee.
Step three: Run your hands over the stocking to smooth it out.
If it's still hard to put on your stockings, there are other things that may help.
Ask your doctor or a medical supplier for advice.
They may recommend a tool that can make it easier.
Putting on compression stockings can be a challenge at first.
But with time and practice, it should get easier.
