Interested in support hose, but not sure how to choose the correct size or compression range? Not sure if support hose are exactly what you need? Read on for some tips on choosing and using support hose.

Support hose come in many brands and compression ranges and they are not all equal. When you choose your compression stockings look for a manufacturer that is regulated by the FDA. The only manufacturer that is currently regulated by the FDA is Jobst. If the FDA regulates the manufacturer you can be certain that the compression range stated is the compression you will get if you choose the correct size.

The compression range of Jobst support hose is measured in millimeters of mercury abbreviated as "mmhg". You will see several available compression ranges like 8-15 mmhg, 15-20 mmhg, 20-30 mmhg and 30-40 mmhg.

The remainder of the information will assume you are using Jobst compression stockings. It is also important to note that you are not required to have a prescription to purchase support hose. However, if you are having problems with your legs it is important that you see your doctor to prevent potentially serious health problems from developing.

Choosing Your Compression Range?

Most anyone can benefit from mild 8-15 mmhg support hose. They are excellent for use during travel to help keep your legs from getting tired and sore. They are also very well suited to wearers who are on their feet a lot during the day. The mild range of support hose is very well suited for tired achy legs and mild spider veins.

The next compression range is the mildest "medical compression" and it is 15-20 mmhg and considered moderate. This compression range is the first to require leg measurements to get accurate compression. The moderate range support hose are still well suited to most any wearer and are excellent for those who suffer from mild to moderate swelling and varicose veins. This range of support has is also some times used by physicians for treating leg wounds and ulcers as support hose will increase blood flow to wounds and speed healing. If you have leg wounds or venous stasis ulcers see your physician before using support hose.

Firm support hose are 20-30 mmhg and are suited to users with moderate to severe swelling and varicose veins. This compression is also used to treat leg wounds and ulcers as prescribed by a physician.

Extra-firm support hose 30-40 mmhg are appropriate for those suffering from severe swelling, leg pain and varicose veins. These are also used to treat various leg problems as prescribed by a physician.

Choosing Your Size

Size is the most important aspect when it comes to choosing your support hose. If you get them too small the compression you get from the support hose will be more than is stated by the manufacturer. If you get them too big the compression will be less than the stated range.

To measure Jobst support hose you need different measurements depending on the style you are choosing knee, thigh or waist and your chosen compression range.

Mild 8-15 mmhg support hose do not require direct leg measurements. They go by shoe size for knee high styles and weight and height tables for the thigh and waist styles. See the sizing information in the support hose section for the size ranges.

All other support hose compression ranges require direct measurement from your ankle, thigh and waist depending on your chosen style. All measurements should be taken in inches. The ankle is the most important measurement and must be the highest point of compression for the stockings to work correctly. If you can fit in more than one size based on your calf, thigh or waist measurements choose the size that corresponds to your ankle measurement as taken from the largest part of your ankle typically around the ankle bone. Measure your self early in the morning before you get out of bed as this is typically when you will be at your smallest size.

Putting on your stockings

This may sound like an n easy proposition if you have never worn support hose before. However, it can be difficult for wearers who have limited hand strength or mobility to put the support hose on, especially in the higher compression ranges.

To put on any compression range support hose the easiest method is the heel pocket out method. Follow this link to the Jobst website for a picture of how to use this method and other tips for putting on support hose.

Caring for Your Support Hose

All Jobst support hose can be washed by machine, but cannot be dried by machine. The best detergent to use on Jobst support hose is Jobst Jolastic cleaning solution. This detergent will give you the longest life on your support hose investment.

Conclusion

This is a basic explanation of how to choose and care for support hose. If you have any questions about this information or would like to speak with us about support hose please feel free to contact us. Just click on the contact us link at the bottom of this page.