What Are Medical Compression Stockings?

Medical compression stockings are specially designed garments that apply gentle, graduated pressure to the legs. Graduated pressure is designed to support venous return and may help reduce lower-limb swelling and symptoms associated with venous insufficiency. This may help support circulation, reduce swelling, and ease symptoms such as leg heaviness or fatigue. The appropriate compression level, style, and length are determined based on your assessment findings, circulation status, skin health, and clinical needs.

Important Safety Note
Additional medical investigation or clearance may be recommended before compression therapy is initiated. Before any stockings are supplied, a vascular and skin assessment is completed to ensure compression is safe and appropriate for you.

When Compression May Not Be Recommended
Compression stockings may not be suitable in cases of significant arterial disease, certain cardiac conditions, untreated infection, active skin breakdown, suspected deep vein thrombosis, or other medical concerns identified during assessment. If needed, we will advise you on alternative options or referral.

Who May Benefit

Compression stockings may be considered for individuals with:

  • Leg swelling or fatigue
  • Varicose veins or venous concerns
  • Symptoms related to prolonged standing or sitting
  • Pregnancy-related leg discomfort
  • Travel-related swelling
  • Other lower-limb conditions identified during your assessment

Your chiropodist will determine whether compression therapy is suitable and safe based on circulation, skin health, and your overall clinical picture.

Compression Stocking Assessment and Fitting Process

Assessment

A lower-limb assessment is completed to determine whether compression therapy is appropriate. Circulation, swelling patterns, and skin integrity are reviewed.

Measurement

Measurements of the ankle, calf, and leg length are taken to ensure accurate sizing. This helps select the correct compression level, style, and length.

Supply

Compression stockings may be provided following the assessment and measurement. In some cases, a prescription or medical clearance from your family physician or nurse practitioner may be required prior to ordering, depending on medical considerations or insurance requirements. Each pair is ordered individually to ensure appropriate fit and comfort.

Guidance on Use

Written instructions on safe use, donning, and care are provided when you receive your stockings. Support is available if you have questions after using them. 

Replacement intervals may vary depending on wear, material, and manufacturer recommendations. With regular use, many compression stockings require periodic replacement to maintain effectiveness.

 

Prescription & Medical Clearance

Compression therapy is not suitable for everyone. In some medical situations, including certain circulatory or cardiac conditions, medical clearance from your primary care provider may be required before compression stockings are supplied.

If you plan to use insurance coverage, a prescription from your family physician or nurse practitioner is typically required for reimbursement.

 

Booking an Appointment

If you feel compression stockings may be helpful, or if you have been advised to consider them, you can book an "Initial Assessment Appointment" online or contact the clinic for more information.

If you have a chronic cardiovascular condition or plan to use insurance coverage, a valid prescription from your family physician may be required prior to booking.

The initial assessment appointment fee is separate from the cost of compression stockings. Product costs vary by style and material and will be discussed with you before any order is placed.

Compression therapy will only be recommended if your assessment shows it is safe and appropriate for you.

For detailed information, including care guidance and FAQs, please refer to our blog article Compression Stockings: When They Help and How to Use Them Safely.