Compression stockings · Home fitting
Compression Stockings Fitted at Home in Oakville, Burlington & Milton
Compression stockings only work if they fit. Dr. Alex Greyvenstein, DC, measures and fits compression stockings and compression socks at home in Oakville, Burlington and Milton, ideally earlier in the day, before swelling builds up.
You'll get the right size, a suitable compression level, and help putting them on, which is often the hardest part.
The basics
How compression stockings work
Medical compression stockings and socks are graduated: they're tightest at the ankle and get gradually looser up the leg. That gentle pressure helps blood in the leg veins move back toward the heart and can reduce swelling.
"Compression socks" usually means knee-high styles. Stockings can also go to the thigh or waist. The right one depends on why you need them.
Who it's for
Who compression stockings may help
- Swelling in the feet, ankles or lower legs
- Tired, heavy or aching legs
- Varicose veins and other vein problems
- People who stand or sit for long stretches at work
- Long flights or drives
- After surgery, when your surgeon recommends them
Choosing a level
Compression levels explained
Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). Common ranges are:
Higher levels should only be worn after a proper assessment, and sometimes need a doctor's input first.
Your visit
Measuring and fitting at home
- Questions firstYour symptoms and health history, to make sure compression is safe for you.
- MeasuringAnkle, calf and leg length are measured, ideally earlier in the day before swelling builds up.
- ChoosingThe right size, length and compression level for your needs.
- Fitting and how-toHow to put them on and take them off, plus tips and aids if it's a struggle.
If you'd rather buy your stockings somewhere else, that's completely fine. Your measurements are yours to take with you.
Safety
When compression stockings aren't safe
Compression isn't safe for everyone. Check with your doctor before wearing them if you have:
- Poor circulation or peripheral artery disease
- Numbness in your feet, for example from diabetes
- Fragile skin, open wounds or a skin infection on the legs
- Heart failure
- A known or suspected blood clot that hasn't been assessed
- An allergy to the stocking fabric
If you have diabetes, smoke, or have weak pulses in your feet, your circulation should be checked before firmer compression, sometimes with an ankle-brachial index test.
- Pain, swelling, warmth or redness in one calf (a possible blood clot)
- Chest pain or sudden shortness of breath (call 911)
- Toes that turn pale, blue, numb or cold while wearing stockings: take them off and get checked
Service area
Compression stockings near you
Home fittings are available across Oakville, including Old Oakville, Kerr Village, Joshua Creek, Glen Abbey and the Uptown Core, plus Burlington and Milton.
Burlington
Home fittings for compression socks and stockings throughout Burlington.
Book in BurlingtonCommon questions
Compression stocking questions
Socks or stockingsWhat's the difference between compression socks and compression stockings?
They work the same way. Socks are usually knee-high, while stockings can come up to the thigh or waist. The length you need depends on where the swelling or vein problems are.
LevelWhat compression level should I wear?
Many people start with a mild level for everyday aching or travel. Higher levels are used for vein problems and should be chosen after an assessment.
TravelDo compression socks help prevent blood clots on long flights?
Research suggests compression stockings can lower the risk of blood clots on flights of about four hours or more. If you've had a clot before or have other risk factors, talk to your doctor before you fly.
NightShould I wear compression stockings at night?
Usually not. Most people put them on in the morning and take them off at bedtime, unless a doctor has told you otherwise.
CoverageAre compression stockings covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans cover medical compression stockings, often with conditions such as a doctor's prescription or a minimum compression level. Check your plan first.
Putting onHow do I put on compression stockings more easily?
Put them on first thing in the morning, turn the stocking inside out to the heel, and ease it up gradually. Rubber gloves and donning aids can help a lot, and you'll be shown how at the fitting.
Get started
Book a compression stocking fitting
Swollen ankles, achy legs or a long trip coming up? Get measured and fitted without leaving home.