- How to put on Compression Stockings
- Measuring Instructions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Healthy legs tips
To put on a regular pair of socks, most people scrunch them up, stick their foot in, and pull. It’s pretty easy. Try this with a compression stocking and you’ll get nowhere fast!
Check out Sigvaris’s youtube donning videos which demonstrates different ways to easily and properly put on a pair of support socks. These videos will demonstrate the “heel pocket method”, how to use rubber donning gloves, and how to use a “Stocking Donner”.
The “heel pocket method” works very well for stockings that are thicker or have a lot of compression. Sheer and less firm stockings are best put on with donning gloves. The gloves protect the delicate fabric from snags and runs and gives you a better grip on the fabric.
The metal frame “Stocking Donner” is a great solution If you have difficulty bending or crossing your legs. Stocking Donners are available in regular size, wide-calf size and even a specially designed two-leg donner for pantyhose.
SIGVARIS Doff N’ Donner Open-Toe Calf Stocking |
SIGVARIS Doff N’ Donner Closed-Toe Calf Stocking |
SIGVARIS Doff N’ Donner Rolling Closed-Toe Stocking |
SIGVARIS Doff N’ Donner Rolling Closed-Toe Stocking without Cone |
General Guidelines
- Measurements should always be taken as soon as possible after waking when swelling is at its lowest.
- Limbs should be measured next to bare skin .
- The measuring system is based on the angle between the sole of the foot and leg or arm being at 90 degrees, for best results.
- Measurements must be taken by pulling the tape snugly around the leg but without constriction.
- Measurements should be taken from the ground up.
Calf Style / Closed Toe
- Measure the ankle circumference (B) at the narrowest part of the ankle, above the ankle bone.This measurement is labelled (B) Use the appropriate series sizing chart to determine if ankle is Small, Medium, Large or X-Large. This should be your first measurement.
- Measure the calf circumference (C) at the fullest part of the calf.This measurement is labelled (C)
- Determine the calf length (A-D) by measuring from the floor up to the bend of the knee. This measurement is taken on the outside of the calf
Calf Style / Closed Toe
- Measure the ankle circumference (B) at the narrowest part of the ankle, above the ankle bone.This measurement is labelled (B) Use the appropriate series sizing chart to determine if ankle is Small, Medium, Large or X-Large. This should be your first measurement.
- Measure the calf circumference (C) at the fullest part of the calf.This measurement is labelled (C)
- Determine the calf length (A-D) by measuring from the floor up to the bend of the knee. This measurement is taken on the outside of the calf
(B) Ankle Circumference
(C) Calf Circumference
(A-D) Calf Length from right angle bend of the knee to the floor
Pantyhose and Thigh-High Style Open / Closed Toe
- Measure the ankle circumference (B) at the narrowest part of the ankle, above the ankle bone.This measurement is labelled (B) Use the appropriate series sizing chart to determine if ankle is Small, Medium, Large or X-Large. This should be your first measurement.
- Measure the calf circumference (C) at the fullest part of the calf.This measurement is labelled (C)
- Measure the thigh at the widest circumference. This measurement is labelled (G)
- Determine the thigh length (A-G) by measuring from the floor up to the gluteal fold .
(G) Widest circumferance of the thigh
(A-G) Leg Length from the floor up to the gluteal fold.
- How do I take care of my compression garments?
Prolong the life of your stocking by daily handwashing or machine washing on a delicate wash cycle (please note the care instructions on the label of your stocking) after each wear.
The product can be machine dried provided a delicate cycle is choses (refer to the information on the label of the stocking). However, direct heat should be avoided (radiators and sunshine). When handwashing the stockings, we recommend drying them between two towels (DO NOT WRING).
Only use mild washing powder/liquid and avoid the use of washing additives like fabric softener, optical brightners or stain removers. We strong recommend a washing solution that is meant for elastic garments (can be purchased on this website).
Please wipe the inside of the silicone top band with a damp cloth regularly
- How long will my garment last?
The maximum length the compression will last of daily wear is 6 months. Stockings should be washed after each wearing (please refer to the care instructions on the fabric label of your compression stocking).
- Warranty?
Manufacturer’s guarantees their products will be free of manufacture’s defects for six months from the date of purchase.
Be sure to inspect your product as soon as you receive them. The manufacturer’s warranties do NOT include: normal wear and tear, pulled threads, runs, wear at the heel or toes, holes due to fingernails, toe nails or snags.
Definition of Manufacturer Defect:
- A flaw in the manufacture that is existent and apparent at the moment the box is opened. This does not include: ordering the incorrect size, normal wear and tear, pulled threads, runs, wear at the toe or heels, or holes due to fingernails or toenails or snags or any problem caused by the wearer in application, improper use or care of the garment.
- Unworn garment: Garments are items of personal apparel and as such may not be returned if they have been worn for more than 10 minutes. If you are unsure of the fit, never wear your garment for more than a few minutes.
- Do you accept returns?
Please see our terms and conditions
- How do I determine what size garment I need?
There are several ways to determine what size garment to order:
First of all – we strongly recommend you get measured by a garment fitter if this is the first time you are purchasing compression stockings
If you have a product that you want to replace, use the box or tag to reorder the exact same garment
If you need to a take new measurements, here’s how and refer to the manufacture’s sizing charts
- How do I put the stocking on?
First of all – if this is your first time purchasing a garment we strongly recommend you see a garment fitter to be measured and demonstrated on how to put on and take off your compression garment
You can also look at the following links for some guidelines:
How to Play Your Part to Keep Your Legs Healthy:
- Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time. Our circulation improves with physical activity, so GET UP! Take a short walk, climb stairs, or make an effort to move around the office and at home. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing as this may increase leg pain and swelling.
- After a long tiring day, especially during the summer, revitalize your legs with a cool shower or bath.Avoid extended exposure to heat from sunbathing, hot baths, or the sauna as excessive heat will cause your veins to dilate and may induce swelling.
- Elevate your legs. To boost your body’s natural circulation, elevate your legs while you are sitting on the sofa or lying in bed at home. At the office, keep a leg rest under your desk.