What if the patient’s stockings or socks seem too short?
If a patient’s stocking or socks seem too short, advise them to take their stockings or socks back down to their ankle and refit, pulling the garment firmly but without tugging. There is substantial elasticity in the material, which should enable a better fit. Occasionally, poor dexterity and problems with gripping compression hosiery may make pulling the garment up difficult for some patients. If your patient is finding it hard to grip the stocking or sock firmly enough, suggest that they try fitting the garment while wearing lightweight household rubber gloves, which can help stop their fingers from slipping. Compression hosiery is also easier to pull upwards over smooth well cared for skin. Advise your patient to apply moisturiser to their legs every night.
