With prices ranging from $50 to even $150 or more per pair, your first response is probably sticker shock when you visit a medical supply store to purchase them. In many cases, your health care provider might recommend purchasing two or more pairs, the cost of which can be a definite budget buster.

It’s tempting to search for the lowest priced stockings, thinking you’re saving money. But when it comes to compression stockings, there are a few considerations before beginning a bargain hunt.

Buying Cheap Could Hurt Your Health

Discount compression stockings come in a variety of compression levels. Typically, lighter compression stockings with less compression are less expensive than higher compression stockings. But stockings in the 8-15 mmHg  range, the cheapest varieties, only help people with minor vein problems, such as aching legs from pregnancy or people in careers that have them on their feet a lot.

People with serious vein problems, whose doctors recommend firmer compression, may be putting their health at risk if they try to skimp on cost by using a lighter compression than they need. If you need cheap compression stockings in the 30-40 mmHg or higher range, expect to pay $75 or more per pair.

Off-Brand Stockings May Not Work as Well

Juzo, Jobst, Sigvaris, and Mediven are some of the most common manufacturers of compression stockings. Those looking for discount compression stockings may come across drugstore brands or knockoff varieties produced overseas on auction sites, but often you get what you pay for: the compression level may not be as advertised, or the stockings may be low quality and wear out more quickly than a name brand carried by medical supply stores.

Buying Used Often a Bad Idea

Online auction sites like Ebay and even Craigslist may turn up deals on lightly used compression stockings. But consider this: With used compression stockings, it’s hard to verify the stocking’s compression level, especially if there is no original packaging. The previous wearer may have weighed more or less than you, stretching out the stocking and compromising the compression.

For these reasons, doctors do not recommend wearing used stockings, but instead getting those fitted for you. However, if you can find new cheap medical stockings that come in their original packaging, and you’re certain you’re getting the brand, size, and compression level you need, you may be able to snag a deal.

Discount Medical Stockings: You CAN Find Deals

Buying medical stockings online can net you some bargains, though. Here are a few tips to get online deals on name brand stockings:

1) Purchasing through a retailer like Amazon can get you free shipping for orders over $25 (free 2-day membership if you have a Prime membership). They carry brands like:

• Juzo (30-40 mmHg Unisex Thigh Highs; 40-50 mmHg Open Toe Thigh Highs)
• Jobst (20-30 mmHg Knee Highs Unisex)
• Sigvaris (20-30 mmHg Truly Transparent Thigh Highs; 30-40 mmHg Open Toe Thigh Highs Unisex)
• Mediven (20-30 mmHg Open Toe Knee Highs)
• Compression Stocking Aids

2) Look for coupon codes for online discount compression stocking retailers. Try Googling “coupon code” and the name of the supplier website to find codes that you can enter to get a percentage off your order or free shipping.

3) Buy multiples. It’s not as good a shipping deal as Amazon, but other medical supply retailers often offer free shipping on orders $65 and above, so buying stockings in bulk (and you’ll need at least one pair to wear, one pair to wash) can save some money.

How Does a Sequential Compression Device Work?

Like compression stockings, these devices help blood and fluid flow better, reducing leg lymphedema.

First, a disposable sleeve is placed around your leg. The sleeves look a bit like leg warmers, and stretch from your ankles to your knees or the tops of your legs. After you put on the sleeves, an air pump, connected to the sleeve, pushes air into the sleeve at various intervals. This creates a squeezing sensation of pressure and helps the blood in the veins circulate and flow better. There are both home and hospital-grade versions of these devices.

The more chambers a device has, the better it can help blood and fluid in the legs circulate. A hospital-grade sequential compression device may have up to 10 chambers.

Another name for these lymphedema pumps is intermittent pneumatic compression system.

Who Needs This Device?

People undergoing hip replacement or other surgery or with obesity, blood clotting conditions, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or swelling in the arms and legs, called lymphedema, may be prescribed these devices. Research studies have also investigated the use of sequential compression devices for relieving restless legs syndrome. This common problem is the second most common sleep disorder and causes uncomfortable or painful sensations in the arms or legs.

How Much Does a Sequential Compression Device Cost?

Cost of these lymphedema pumps often depends on how many chambers they have. More chambers are more expensive, but also generally more effective.

• Presssion 3-Chamber Sequential Compression Pump ($614)
• Presssion 6-Chamber Sequential Compression Pump ($1,138)
• PlexiPulse Foot Compression Therapy ($2,995, Doctor’s prescription required)
• System 7500 Sequential Extremity Pump Arm Sleeve ($298, sleeve only)
• System 7500 Sequential Extremity Pump Leg Sleeve ($324, sleeve only)

Using a Sequential Compression Pump

• Most of the sleeves you order for use with the pumps are machine washable.

• You can order sleeves in a variety of sizes to accommodate your needs.

• You may need a prescription for more powerful lymphedema pumps; usually you obtain this from your doctor’s office and then fax it when you order your item.

• You shouldn’t use these lymphedema pumps if you have an active blood clot.

• You shouldn’t use these if you have congestive heart failure.

• If your arm or leg or foot is very sensitive to pain, don’t use a lymphedema sleeve on it.

Check with your doctor before using any type of sequential compression device.

All information on AboutCompressionStockings.com is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.

Lymphedema is severe swelling that occurs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system, part of the immune and circulatory system’s network of vessels that help remove fluids from the body. Because removing cancer from the vulvar area often requires removal of lymph vessels, too, fluid can’t drain properly, and accumulates in the body, causing significant swelling in an arm or leg.

A small study conducted at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom reported that evaluated whether women who’d undergone surgery for vulvar cancer experienced less leg lymphedema if they wore compression stockings.

Compared to women who didn’t wear the stockings, women who wore compression stockings after vulvar surgery had less fluid volume in their legs and had fewer symptoms of leg problems. The study, published in the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer, did not find that compression stockings affected the rates of wound healing.

Because of their study findings, the researchers concluded that using compression stockings may be effective for reducing leg lymphedema in women who require vulvar surgery, although they say that more studies are needed to make specific conclusions.

Compression stockings for leg lymphedema:

• Sigvaris Pantyhose
• Sigvaris Thigh High Open Toe
• Jobst Relief Thigh Highs

Will you be undergoing surgery for vulvar cancer? Using compression stockings as a preventive measure may be one way to reduce your risk of leg lymphedema. Talk to your doctor about what level of compression you might require. Some name brand compression stockings often used to alleviate lymphedema include Mediven, Sigvaris, Juzo, and Jobst.

Tip #1: First get a good fit

Compression socks that are too loose are likely to sag, bag, and generally cause you frustration, whereas stockings that are too tight can literally cut you off at the knees, making even walking difficult. What you need is a just-right fit. From the comfort of your own home, the best way to do that is to check out the manufacturers’ size chart and following their measuring instructions. The major manufacturers, including Sigvaris, Juzo, Jobst, and Mediven, all offer sizing information and measuring instructions online. That way you’ll get the fit that’s right for you.

Tip #2: Invest in a few color choices

Compression stockings for men come in a variety of color choices, but because of the potential expense, you may be hesitant to order more than one pair. If at all possible, buy at least one dark pair and one light pair of compression stockings so you won’t be tempted to leave them at home because they don’t match your pants.

Here are a few color choices for men compression stockings:

• Over-the-Calf Dress Socks - Brown, Navy, Khaki, Black
• Over-the-Calf Socks - White
• Mens’ Dress Knee High Socks - Brown, Navy, Black, Khaki

Tip #3: Get them on easily

Compression stockings can be tough to get on, even for the most macho. Try slipping on a pair of latex gloves so your hands don’t snag the stocking’s fibers, and remove all rings before putting on your stockings.

• Easy Roll Stocking Donner
• IT Stays Body Adhesive - helps compression stockings stay up better

Tip #4: Buy brands that last

You can purchase compression stockings for men over the counter at most drugstores and pharmacies, but you may find your money better spent going for quality. Manufacturers such as Sigvaris, Mediven, Juzo, and Jobst offer quality products for not much more than drugstore brands, and they’re made to last for months and years instead of a matter of weeks.

There are ways to get cheap medical stockings, too.

• Top Sigvaris compression stocking
• Top Mediven stocking for men
• Top Juzo compression socks for men
• Top Jobst compression stocking for men

But how well do Jobst compression stockings really work? How easy are they to get on and use? Although medical supply salespeople or catalog operators can offer advice, if you’re forking over money for compression stockings, you want to be sure you’ll like what you get. Here are some comments we’ve found about the quality and use of Jobst support stockings.

One user said of Jobst thigh-high 15-20 mmHg stockings: “Have been wearing support stockings for 14 years. Have always needed ‘It Stays’ to hold them up. Those days are thankfully over. The new Jobst Stocking, with its built-in suction design, stays up without glue. Cleaner, easier, and more comfortable. Good job, Jobst.”

Another user praised the product, with one caveat: “It really helps my painful legs. They are too thick to use during the hot summer of Texas, but can use them at home.”

Of the Jobst brand compression socks for diabetics (men or women can wear this product), one woman noted both benefits and potential drawbacks: “I have mostly appreciated these socks. The price is reasonable, they are soft and comfortable, and they are supportive without making your legs feel squeezed. They do get a bit warm and sweaty sometimes. The top band is mostly very good - not too tight, not too loose. The socks stay up very well - they never turn slack even after many washings. However, the top band has a tiny elastic edge that can leave a red line across your skin after many hours. This tiny elastic edge is not uncomfortable nor does it affect circulation. To avoid developing the red line, I either fold the top edge down or occasionally I wear the socks inside out. For me a pair lasts about a year and then wears out at the heel (I land on my heels pretty hard). I am buying more of these because overall they are very good to have in your pressure-sock collection.”

Another user noted: “These socks are the best. They give your feet and calves life. I am extremely happy with them and have been using them for about 4 years. They are usually difficult to get online but they came on time and as ordered from this vendor.”

The general consensus from user reviews? Jobst compression stockings work great, but can make your legs feel hot and sweaty at times. But if you need gradient compression hosiery for medical reasons, Jobst brand stockings are a great option.

Researchers from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland found that the risk of blood clots in stroke patients didn’t improve when they wore thigh high compression stockings. In addition, the researchers reported that 5 percent of patients developed ulcers, dead skin tissue, and blisters.

As a result of their findings, the study authors suggest reevaluating current recommendations that all stroke patients wear support hose after surgery.

Although this research indicates that compression stockings may not reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots and deep vein thrombosis, other research shows that compression garments are often improperly used, even by nursing staff and medical personnel.

Patients are often prescribed the wrong size stockings, they may be instructed to wear thigh high stockings when knee high varieties work just as well, and both medical personnel and patients may have trouble putting the stockings on the right way.

What’s the best brand to use? Compression stockings manufactured by Jobst, Juzo, Mediven, and Sigvaris, come with detailed instructions on how to use the legwear for best results.

Many studies have found that using compression stockings contributes to increased blood flow and reduces the risk of venous disorders. Although this Lancet study found that stroke patients don’t benefit, compression legwear may still help relieve aching, tired legs, reduce the risk of varicose veins and leg swelling, and cut the risk of blood clots during travel and after surgery - but only if they’re used properly.

What are maternity stockings?

This supportive legwear squeezes the veins in the legs, making blood flow more easily and reducing the likelihood of developing varicose legs, which are bulging masses of swollen veins, which often occur in the legs. Varicose veins can occur in other areas of the body, too; when they occur in the rectal area, they’re known as hemorrhoids. Pregnant women who are overweight, carry twins, triplets, or other multiples, or who have a genetic predisposition to varicose veins are more likely to develop them.

What brand should I choose?

Maternity compression stockings don’t have to be unfashionable. There are several popular retailers, including Juzo, Jobst, Mediven, and Sigvaris, that make patterned, colored compression stockings that are perfect for wearing with skirts or professional attire.

Where do I get them?

You can get maternity stockings at a drugstore or pharmacy, medical supply store, or from online retailers. Pregnancy compression stockings come in different levels of compression; the higher the compression level, the more tightly they squeeze the leg veins. Your doctor or midwife may suggest that drugstore legwear is good enough for you, or he or she may recommend higher compression levels available only with a prescription.

How do I use them?

Pregnancy compression stockings should be worn daily, but taken off at night. Slide your foot into the foot of the stockings, and then gently roll the stockings up the leg. Be careful not to tug the stocking into place; you could ruin the elastic compression fibers if you do this. Avoid putting lotion on your legs or wearing rings or other jewelry when you put on your maternity compression stockings. If you have trouble getting the stockings on, you can use a device called a compression stocking aid (or stocking donner) to help make it easier.

Common brands of compression gear for men include Sigvaris, Jobst, Juzo, and Mediven. A sales person at your local medical supply store, online legwear retailer, or running or cycling specialty store can suggest some pros and cons of each available brand.

Compression garments for men come in a variety of styles, including:

• Knee high support hose (available in common men’s sock colors, such as black, white, and tan) and ribbed socks
• Thigh high support hose (also available in common colors like black or tan)
• Compression shorts
• Compression socks
• Compression shirts and sleeves

Before you can buy compression men, you’ll need to measure yourself carefully. Generally, you’ll need to measure the circumference of each calf, thigh (around the top part of the leg, by the buttocks), and knee, as well as the overall length of your leg.

Sigvaris, Juzo, Jobst, and Mediven compression for men come in the following mmHg compression levels (mmHg stands for millimeter of mercury):

• 8-15 mmHg

• 15-20 mmHg

• 20-30 mmHg

• 30-40 mmHg

• 40-50 mmHg

• 50-60 mmHg

Once you choose, you’ll have to learn how to care for your garments properly. Whatever brand you choose, the retailer should provide washing instructions. If you’re using medical stockings, your doctor can tell you how long to wear your stockings each day.

Using your support hose properly will help reduce the risk of varicose veins, ensure your legs are fatigue- and ache-free, and reduce the risk of dangerous blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis and other ailments. People with diabetes often wear men support socks since their circulation is often impaired due to diabetes.

The health condition lymphedema involves swelling in the arms and legs. When the lymphatic system in your body becomes blocked, fluid may have difficulty draining and circulating. As a result, the fluid has nowhere to go and collects, causing uncomfortable swelling. Although the condition has no cure, sometimes the swelling may be relieved with lymphedema compression stockings.

Lymphedema often develops after a person has surgery, injury, or infection. All of these situations can make it difficult for the lymphatic system to drain lymph fluid. Cancer, radiation treatment, and other diseases may also cause this lymphatic disorder.

One of the most common symptoms of lymphedema include swelling in the arm or leg (the fingers and toes may also swell). If you have this health problem, your arm or leg may feel heavy and tight and it may be difficult to move. If you have lymphedema, you may develop infections in the affected body part, and the skin in that area may become thickened and hard.

If you see a doctor about lymphedema swelling in the arm and leg, he or she may have you undergo tests such as MRI, radionuclide imaging, CT, and Doppler ultrasound.

To treat lymphedema, your doctor may recommend a variety of therapies, including exercise and massage. You may need to wrap your swollen body part with bandages to improve lymphatic drainage. Doctors also often recommend lymphedema compression stockings. These tight elastic stockings squeeze your arm or leg and make it easier for fluid to drain out of your body. Some common brands of compression stockings include Sigvaris, Mediven, Jobst, and Juzo. Compression stockings also help prevent swelling if you are prone to this health condition.

Lymphedema compression can make it less likely that your puffy arm or leg will become severely swollen.

mmHg compression stockings come in a variety of brands (such as Sigvaris, Mediven, Jobst, and Juzo), styles, and compression levels. Here is a list of compression stocking levels and who they’re used for:

8-15 mmHg compression stocking levels

Doctors typically recommend these stockings for people with aching, fatigued legs; pregnant women; or people with careers that have them on their feet a lot. You can buy 8 to 15 mmHg compression stockings over the counter.

15-20 mmHg compression stocking levels

This therapeutic version of compression stockings is often useful for people whose legs are prone to fatigue and swelling. Pregnant women, people with spider or varicose veins, or people with inherited circulatory problems may need to wear 15-20 mmHg compression stockings.

20-30 mmHg compression stocking levels

Patients with a lot of heaviness and swelling in the legs, mild varicose veins, varicose veins during pregnancy, or who’ve just undergone vein surgery wear 20 to 30 mmHg compression stockings.

30-40 mmHg compression stocking levels

Who wears 30 40 mmHg compression stocking levels? Patients prone to blood clots (such as deep vein thrombosis), post-surgery patients, pregnant women with phlebitis, people with severe leg swelling and scars, stasis dermatitis sufferers, and those with lymphedema.

40-50 mmHg compression stocking levels

People with severe venous ulcers, severe circulatory problems, and lymphedema need to wear these medical grade 40 50 mmHg compression stocking levels.

50-60 mmHg compression stocking levels

People with severe lymphedema, who’ve undergone surgery for compression lymphedema, and severe post thrombotic syndrome need to wear 50 60 mmHg compression stocking levels.

Your doctor will help you decide which compression stocking level is best for you and your medical condition.