How to put on compression stockings

Reach into the stocking, and grab the heel.

slide 1 of 4

slide 1 of 4, Reach into the stocking, and grab the heel.,

Pull your hand back up through the stocking to turn it inside out as far as the heel.

slide 2 of 4

slide 2 of 4, Pull your hand back up through the stocking to turn it inside out as far as the heel. ,

Put your foot into the toe of the stocking, and gently slide the stocking over your heel.

slide 3 of 4

slide 3 of 4, Put your foot into the toe of the stocking, and gently slide the stocking over your heel. ,

Use both hands to grasp the folded part of the stocking about 5 centimetres (2 inches) below the fold. Pull that section up over your ankle.

Again, grasp the folded part of the stocking about 5 centimetres (2 inches) below the fold. Pull that section up. Continue pulling the stocking up in short sections until it is in its final position.

slide 4 of 4

slide 4 of 4, Again, grasp the folded part of the stocking about 5 centimetres (2 inches) below the fold. Pull that section up. Continue pulling the stocking up in short sections until it is in its final position.,

Repeat these steps on the other leg.

Current as of: December 19, 2022

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
David A. Szalay MD - Vascular Surgery
Kara L. Cadwallader MD - Family Medicine