Thigh High Compression Stockings or Knee Length: Which Works Best?
Graduated compression stockings come in a variety of lengths. From thigh length to knee length stockings, you might be wondering which style works best to prevent post thrombotic syndrome and other vein disorders.
When it comes to ease of use and effectiveness, knee length stockings win out over thigh high compression stockings, says a study published in the January-February 2009 issue of the medical journal Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Because staff nurses noted that thigh high stockings were difficult to use with patients, researchers evaluated the use of different lengths of stockings in general surgery and urology patients. They found that compared to thigh high stockings, knee length stockings proved:
- more comfortable for patients
- easier for the staff to use
- less expensive
- less likely to cause injury
- just as effective as thigh high stockings
At St. Cloud Hospital in Minnesota, where this study was conducted, general surgery and urology patients will now wear knee high stockings, and the department of obstetrics and gynecology is considering the change for maternity compression stockings as well.
Graduated stockings, such as those made by Sigvaris, Mediven, Jobst, and Juzo, are available in multiple lengths, depending on your health condition. If your thigh high stockings are uncomfortable or difficult for you to put on, consider using a compression stocking aid – a device that makes it easier to pull the stockings over your legs.
You may also want to talk with your doctor about whether knee length stockings would work just as well to reduce your risk of varicose veins and venous disorders.