Compression FAQs.

• Aching, heavy, or tired legs
• Varicose veins and venous insufficiency
• Leg swelling (oedema)
• Venous eczema and skin changes
• Venous leg ulcers (prevention and healing)
• Lymphoedema and lipoedema
• Pregnancy (including vulval veins)
• Postoperative recovery
• Long-haul flights and travel
• Sport, exercise, and recovery

• Support veins from the outside
• Reduce vein diameter and reflux
• Improve blood flow back to the heart
• Limit fluid leakage into tissues
• Enhance calf muscle pump efficiency
• Reduce swelling, discomfort, and venous pressure

No. Compression stockings help to manage symptoms and reduce complications. They do not repair faulty vein valves or remove varicose veins. Definitive treatments (e.g. ablation or sclerotherapy) are required to correct the underlying problem.

Most people wear them:

• All day, for as long as possible
• Put them on in the morning before swelling develops
• remove at night unless advised otherwise

• Short-term: travel, postoperative recovery
• Medium-term: pregnancy or symptom flare-ups
• Long-term: chronic venous or lymphatic disease

Yes, for most people. Medical advice is recommended if you have:

• Peripheral arterial disease
• Severe neuropathy
• Unexplained leg pain or swelling
• Difficulty tolerating compression

Yes. They help to reduce leg swelling, aching, and varicose veins during pregnancy. There are options for both knee and thigh length stockings, as well as tights with pelvic and vulval vein support.

Yes. They reduce leg swelling and help lower the risk of travel-related clots, especially on flights longer than 4–6 hours.

Yes. Light to moderate compression is commonly used for:

• Endurance sports
• Training comfort
• Post-exercise recovery

They are most effective for reducing fatigue and aiding recovery rather than boosting peak performance.

They can feel firm, especially higher grades. Donning aids, rubber gloves, and open-toe styles make application much easier.

Compression stockings should feel firm but comfortable. They must sit smoothly without rolling, digging in or bunching. They should not cause pain, numbness, or colour change in the toes.

Poor fit requires reassessment.

With regular use, most stockings last up to 6 months before elasticity declines and replacement is needed.

• Gentle wash with mild detergent
• Air dry away from heat
• Do not tumble dry or iron

• Sudden or worsening leg swelling or pain
• Skin breakdown or ulcers
• Symptoms not improving with compression
• Difficulty wearing or tolerating stockings