Compression stockings: The complete guide

You may think compression stockings are for seniors or those recovering from surgery, but they’re actually beneficial for a much wider range of people. Compression stockings help improve blood circulation, relieve discomfort, and prevent or treat various circulatory problems such as varicose veins, swelling (edema) and venous insufficiency.

According to Grand View Research, about 3.7 million Canadians experience venous disorders. Common symptoms include heavy or tired legs, pain, swelling and in some cases blood clots. Wearing compression stockings is recommended to alleviate these problems. When properly selected and worn, compression stockings provide noticeable relief and can be an effective tool in everyday prevention.

This guide explains everything you need to know—from the benefits and different compression levels to choosing the right size and putting them on correctly.

Why to wear compression stockings

Also known as “support stockings,” compression stockings apply graduated pressure to the legs—unlike regular socks. The compression is strongest at the ankle and gradually decreases moving up the leg. This promotes blood flow and prevents blood from pooling in the lower limbs.

Among the many advantages, compression stockings:

• Quickly alleviate leg pain or the feeling of heavy legs
• Reduce swelling, especially at the end of the day or during long flights
• Prevent new varicose veins and keep existing ones from worsening
• Improve recovery after physical activity or for mild to moderate venous insufficiency

Whether for prevention or as part of a treatment plan, compression stockings are suitable for a wide range of people—not just older individuals or those recovering from surgery. They offer a simple and effective way to reduce everyday leg pain, especially during prolonged sitting, such as on flights or at the office.

How to choose compression stockings

Compression stockings are categorized by how much pressure they apply in mmHg (millimetres of mercury). There are three main categories: light, moderate and strong compression.

Which compression to choose depends on the condition of your legs, your symptoms or your goal (prevention, relief or treatment).

That’s why it’s important to determine your needs. Are you looking to wear them for sports, travel or a medical condition?

If you’re unsure, the table below can help guide you:

In addition to the various compression levels, stockings are available in different lengths: knee-high, thigh-high or full-length-tight styles.

Different types of compression stockings

Not all compression stockings are the same. Each type is designed for a specific purpose, making them a good choice for athletes, people who spend long hours on their feet or anyone simply looking to improve everyday leg comfort.

Medical and therapeutic compression stockings

Certain medical conditions can affect blood circulation and cause significant leg pain.

In these cases, medical-grade compression stockings are the best choice, as they provide a higher level of compression than the stockings described earlier. Typically, your doctor will determine the appropriate compression level and provide a prescription.

Conditions that may require therapeutic compression include:

• Diabetes: People with diabetes are vulnerable to a variety of foot conditions, and therapeutic stockings are a proven tool for prevention.
• Venous ulcers: Compression is the first-line treatment for venous ulcers (or varicose ulcers). It can also avoid the need for weekly bandages.
• Venous thromboembolism (thromboembolism): By narrowing the veins and increasing blood flow, these stockings help reduce the risk of blood clots. They should be worn continuously, according to your healthcare professional’s instructions.
• Lymphedema: A stocking with flat-knit compression fabric is suggested as the garment of choice for lymphedema. When the affected limb stabilizes and symptoms are in the first stage, a circular knit may be considered, depending on the weave and tension level.

To get the full benefits of compression stockings or tights, you need to put them on properly. Follow these steps to ensure a correct fit and avoid common mistakes:

1. Use rubber gloves or a stocking aid to handle the fabric gently without damaging it. Several types of stocking aids are available for different needs. Stop by one of our locations to receive personalized guidance on choosing the product that’s best for you.
2. Turn the stocking inside out, leaving only the foot portion right side out.
3. Hold the stocking at the ankle with both hands to create an opening, similar to putting on a sock.
4. Insert your toes carefully, then gradually position the heel.
5. Roll the rest of the stocking up the leg to the desired height—knee-high, thigh-high or waist-high for full-length tights.
6. Use your rubber gloves to smooth the fabric, ensuring even compression and proper positioning.

These simple steps help prevent stretching or damage, ensure consistent pressure and keep your compression stockings working for you every day.

Proper care is key to maintaining their function and longevity. We recommend washing your stockings daily by hand in lukewarm water with mild soap. We do not recommend machine washing, which can damage elastic fibres and reduce compression.

Air dry your stockings away from direct heat and do not wring. You can gently pat them with a towel to speed up drying.

Even with proper care, compression stockings typically last three to six months.

How you wear and maintain them has a significant impact on their lifespan. If they lose elasticity or compression, it’s time to replace them.

Where to buy compression stockings that suit your needs

Choose your compression stockings carefully, based on your precise measurements and needs—whether for wellness, sports, travel or medical treatment. Whatever the reason, consult a trained professional to make sure your stockings are well fitted, comfortable and truly effective.

At Médicus, we offer a wide selection of compression stockings in different lengths and compression levels, for various purposes—plus personalized measurement services. Our specialists can offer advice on the best compression stockings for you and can suggest custom options as needed.

Our team will support you every step of the way—from choosing the right model to testing it out—ensuring the perfect fit and a seamless experience. Stop by one of our stores for professional guidance and find a solution that works for you.