Have you ever wondered why compression stockings are effective? If you tend to have swollen feet and sore legs after flying long distances, hours of sitting at the desk, or doing night shifts, then chances are you have heard about the effectiveness of compression stockings. However, there is one question that is always asked:how long should you wear compression stockings? This guide will provide an answer to that and will assist you to comprehend how to use these supportive garments safely.
Compression stockings are graduated and provide a graduated pressure to your legs that improves blood flow, eliminates blood pooling, decreases swelling (edema) and limits blood clots like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are mostly safe, but the length of time you need to wear them, again, depends on your history, the activity level, and purpose of use. Read on to learn more about how long can you wear compression stockings?
General Wearing Compression Stocking Instructions
Generally you can wear them all day but it is recommended to take them off when you are about to go to sleep, unless your doctor has a different plan.
1. Safe to Wear All Day
Compression socks are safe and effective during the day (most of the time). This is especially in jobs or routine activities that require a lot of standing, walking and sitting. Putting them on while working always helps in improving circulation and decreasing fatigue in legs.
Note: Individuals with severe peripheral artery disease (cutting down blood flow to the legs) should not wear compression stockings unless prescribed by a physician.
2. Remove Before Bed
A common question that many patients ask is: “Do you wear compression stockings to bed?” In most cases, no—you should remove these compression garments before going to bed to let your legs and skin relax. Nonetheless, TED hose or anti-embolism stockings intended to be worn overnight may be prescribed to patients on bed rest after surgery. The CDC reports that compression therapy can prevent the occurrence of harmful blood clots in immobile patients.
3. Significance of a Recommendation by a Doctor
Safe use can be achieved only with the advice of a doctor. They assess whether you have such conditions as peripheral arterial disease or congestive heart failure that might make compression therapy unsafe. So if you are wondering how long should you wear compression stockings after surgery? Always adhere to doctor instructions on the duration of wearing compression stockings after surgery or chronic disease.
Time Length According To Your Requirement
Depending on your purpose, the length of time that you wear compression stockings can vary:
- Pain or general swelling: 8-10 hours daytime.
- Severe medical conditions: Doctors can prescribe long-term or all-night use, particularly after surgery or prevention of DVT.
- Activity level and compression type: Compression levels or certain types (knee-high vs. thigh-high) could have an impact on wear time.
What Is The Recommended Length Of Wearing Compression Stocking?
It can be travel, work, sports, or post-surgical recovery, and the purpose is the same: the external pressure on the veins to enhance blood flow. Here is the recommended wearing length of these compression garments depending on your application case.
1. To Reduce Swelling After Exercise
Make them part of your exercise (like running or cycling), they should be worn for 3-4 hours after exercise to reduce swelling and for recovery.
2. For Nurses or Long Shifts
Wear them to work and take them off when you get home. A typical nursing shift could be 12 hours a day of wear.
3. For Travel
Swelling and the risk of DVT on long-distance flights or road trips can be reduced by compression stockings.
Real Life Situations On Compression Stockings
1. Nurses and Shift Workers
Spending long hours on your feet may result in swelling, fatigue and pain in the legs. Compression garments are beneficial because they allow your body to circulate blood properly, so you can consider putting them on during your shifts. Additionally you can take them off after work so that your legs can take a break.
2. Long-Distance Travelers
Long car rides, planes, and trains can make your legs swell and may increase the risk of developing blood clots. The CDC recommends that at-risk travelers use compression stockings during the entire travel period and take occasional breaks to walk.
3. Sports Recovery
Compression hosiery is used by athletes during exercise or after exercise to alleviate soreness, increase blood flow and enhance recovery. Most runners or cyclists will be able to wear them between 1 and 4 hours following training.
4. Post-Surgery Recovery
This is the worst-case situation. To prevent DVT and swelling, medical-grade stockings can be advised almost 24/7 after surgery. Your surgeon may suggest you the length of wear and compression level.
Fact: Studies indicate that compression therapy after an operation is very effective in preventing blood clots.
Signs You’re Wearing Compression Stockings Incorrectly
Although most people can know how to wear these pressure stockings safely. However, if they are not used properly, they can be harmful. Watch for these signs:
- Severe bruises or cuts on your skin
- Painful, numb, or cold feet
- Skin irritation or bruising
Stockings must not be tight but not uncomfortable. In case of any of the above signs, remove them and visit your doctor.
Do You Wear Compression Stockings To Bed?
The majority of compression wear does not require overnight use. The body and skin deserves a rest. Exceptions include:
- Bedridden patients
- Patients with high risks of clot after surgery
- Anti-embolism stockings prescribed by a doctor
