If you have sensitive skin, limited hand strength, or severe swelling, wearing traditional compression stockings can be a struggle. Luckily, there is a great alternative to compression hosiery- compression wraps! Compression wraps get wrapped around the leg and secured with Velcro straps, whereas conventional compression socks need to be pulled on and up. Wraps can be easily adjusted and are also great for those who need 24-hour compression.
Compression wraps provide you with dynamic compression, which means they only apply compression when your muscles push against them. Dynamic compression is more comfortable to wear while resting, which is why it’s the better alternative if you need to wear compression for longer time periods.
If traditional compression stockings are hard for you to get on, or they just aren’t comfortable for you to wear, look into wearing compression wraps! Talk to your doctor or therapist first to ensure that they’re right for you, and if they are, keep reading to learn more about our recommendations.
This best-selling compression wrap covers the lower half of the leg, and their patented Juxta-Lock Band System allows for easy application and adjustment. They are made with a lighter and thinner material and are ideal for managing mild to moderate edema. It provides 20-30, 30-40, and 40-50mmHg compression.
This compression wrap is the easiest to put on- only four Velcro straps! It is also designed to prevent gaps from forming between each strap, making it more effective and comfortable.
This Sigvaris calf wrap is intended to treat mild to moderate lymphedema and venous insufficiencies. It is made with soft but durable fabric, and it can also be adjusted to give you between 20 and 50mmHg compression.
This foot wrap is a great alternative to a compression sock because it easily wraps around the ankle and foot and comes in two sizes that can fit virtually any foot shape. It’s also made with SILVERtec lining to prevent static, odor, and bacteria build-up.
If you need full leg or upper leg compression, consider this thigh compression wrap. It can be paired with a calf compression wrap for full leg compression, and is constructed with a comfortable, breathable blend of nylon polyester and polyurethane.
This Velcro knee wrap from Juzo works just like short stretch bandages, but easier to put on and more comfortable. It provides higher compression while you’re up and moving, and lower compression while resting, which makes it great for 24-hour wear.
There are several great alternatives to traditional compression socks no matter what your compression needs are! If you think compression wraps are the right fit for you, talk with your doctor andbrowse our whole page of different wraps.
FAQs
Luckily, there is a great alternative to compression hosiery - compression wraps! Compression wraps get wrapped around the leg and secured with Velcro straps, whereas conventional compression socks need to be pulled on and up. Wraps can be easily adjusted and are also great for those who need 24-hour compression.
What can I do instead of wearing compression socks? ›
Elastic wraps: In specific cases, your doctor might recommend specialized elastic wraps as an alternative to stockings, although their effectiveness and convenience generally fall short compared to graduated compression stockings.
Can I use ace bandages instead of compression socks? ›
If one has significant skin changes and/or swelling, they may need 30-40 mmHg or Velcro compression wraps. There are now assist devices for those having problems getting the stockings on and off. Ace bandages are never an acceptable alternative. They do not give adequate compression and are vulnerable to loosening.
Is it better to wear compression socks or stockings? ›
Assess Your Needs: The choice between socks and stockings depends on your specific condition or purpose. For lower leg issues like calf strains or shin splints, socks might suffice, while stockings are better suited for conditions affecting the entire leg.
Is there a downside to wearing compression socks? ›
Compression stockings can have some side effects, especially if you're not wearing them correctly or you're wearing the wrong size. The most common side effects include: Skin irritation, such as itchiness or feeling cold or warm. Redness.
How do you reduce swelling in your legs without compression socks? ›
Moving and using the muscles in the part of the body that's swollen, especially the legs, might help move fluid back toward the heart. A health care provider can talk about exercises that might reduce swelling. Raise. Hold the swollen part of the body above the level of the heart several times a day.
What can I wear instead of socks? ›
Instead, go sockless in shoes that are made of natural, breathable materials and use an odor-absorbing sock insert like FLAT SOCKS. FLAT SOCKS are barefoot socks made for people who want to wear something instead of socks, or rather no socks at all.
Can I make my own compression socks? ›
You can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars by making your own Compression Stockings. Simply purchase Stretch Jeans at a Thrift Store. Measure your leg from the ankle up to just below the knee. Measure the Jeans from the bottom hem up and cut the leg off.
Are compression wraps as good as compression socks? ›
Compression wraps are able to complete compression therapy with a fabric wrap that is secured with Velcro. Many of them are brace-like, so they're able to provide great support along with compression. Compression stockings are able to provide similar benefits, but they are a bit more flexible.
What are the disadvantages of compression bandages? ›
Methods
- Consensus panel. ...
- Study design. ...
- Risks and complications for compression therapy reported in literature. ...
- Skin irritation. ...
- Allergic skin reactions. ...
- Discomfort and pain. ...
- Forefoot oedema and lymphoedema. ...
- Bacterial and fungal infections.
Luckily, there is a great alternative to compression hosiery - compression wraps! Compression wraps get wrapped around the leg and secured with Velcro straps, whereas conventional compression socks need to be pulled on and up. Wraps can be easily adjusted and are also great for those who need 24-hour compression.
How many hours a day should you wear compression stockings? ›
Taking care of your compression socks
You can wear your compression socks all day by putting them on when getting dressed in the morning, and take them off before bed (unless your doctor advises otherwise).
Should you elevate your legs when wearing compression socks? ›
Compression stockings and elevation work together to reduce the venous pressure and increase the return of venous blood to the heart. You certainly cannot elevate your legs at all times. I tell patients to elevate when they can and stockings can be kept on with elevation.
What happens if you dont wear compression stockings? ›
Blood clots can also break away and travel to the lungs. This causes pulmonary embolism (PE), which can result in sudden death. Together, DVT and PE are known as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Graduated compression stockings after surgery help prevent blood pooling and clotting in lower leg veins.
Are footless compression socks effective? ›
No, "footless" compression stockings are not as effective. Full-coverage stockings work best because they provide total compression. If compression is only from the ankle up, your feet could swell. This can cause discomfort.
Where does the fluid go when wearing compression stockings? ›
The leg can be so edematous (swollen) that once the sock is on, it will squeeze fluid out of the tissue to above the sock. When the circumference of the leg covered by the sock is reduced, the squeeze becomes less and the remaining fluid in the leg remains.
Can you stop wearing compression socks once you start? ›
If you stop wearing compression socks too soon after surgery it may have some negative consequences. This can include: Increased swelling. Blood clots.
Can I skip a day of compression socks? ›
Be sure to wear the stockings as prescribed, whether putting them on as soon as possible in the morning and wearing them until bedtime, or wearing them for the entire day and night.
