How many hours each day should graduated compression stockings be worn?
The wearing time for graduated support stockings is dependent on both the reason for wearing the compression (indication) and the amount of compression (mmHg). An individual’s physician or designee can provide the best guidance for determining these factors. Physicians may advise bed-bound patients to wear anti-embolism stockings (16-18 mmHg) to help prevent blood clots from forming in deep leg veins. Immediately following sclerotherapy, physicians may instruct individuals to wear a specific level of compression continuously for a specified number of hours or days, depending on the size of the veins injected. Individuals with lymphedema are advised to follow the wearing schedule recommended by their physician or therapist.
