How To Put On Compression Socks

Compression socks apply therapeutic pressure to your legs, feet, and ankles, which makes them tighter than regular socks. Many people struggle initially—especially when dealing with swelling, pain, or limited mobility. However, consistent wear is essential for reducing swelling, alleviating pain, and improving circulation. Learning the right techniques makes application faster, easier, and more comfortable.

Whether you're managing diabetes, DVT, lymphedema, edema, or wearing compression during pregnancy, these methods will help.

Three Proven Application Methods

1. Plastic Bag Method

Best for: Significant swelling or difficulty getting socks over the heel

What you need: A standard plastic grocery bag

Steps:

1. Place the bag under your foot with 2 inches extending between your big toe and middle toe

2. Position the compression sock correctly (heel facing down)

3. Slide the sock smoothly over the plastic-covered foot

4. Keep a portion of the bag visible at the back of your leg as you pull upward

5. Adjust the bag position as needed while pulling

6. Once the sock is fully on, remove the plastic bag

2. Inside-Out Method

Best for: Arthritis or reduced hand/arm strength

Steps:

1. Insert your hand into the sock and grasp the interior heel pocket

2. While holding the heel, use your other hand to pull the top of the sock inside-out down your arm, exposing the heel interior

3. Slide the sock over your foot until your foot and heel are positioned correctly

4. Pull the remaining inside-out portion up your calf

This method reduces joint strain by minimizing the stretching force required from your hands and arms.

3. Talcum Powder Method

Best for: Moisture, friction, or one-handed application

Steps:

1. Apply talcum powder to your feet, ankles, and lower legs

2. Allow powder to absorb moisture and reduce friction

3. Apply socks using your preferred method

Tip: Combine talcum powder with other methods for easier application, especially after surgery or when applying socks with one hand.

Essential Application Tips

Timing: Put socks on in the morning before swelling increases. This builds a consistent routine and makes the application easier.

Position: Always sit while applying compression socks. Standing increases fall risk and makes proper application difficult.

Smooth wrinkles: Use your hands to smooth out any wrinkles, working from top to bottom.

Post-surgery caution: If you're recovering from knee or hip surgery, move slowly and deliberately to avoid unnecessary pain.

Need more guidance? Visit our donning tips page for video tutorials and additional techniques.

How To Put Compression Socks On Someone Else

Many compression sock users—particularly elderly individuals—need assistance due to limited strength, balance, or mobility. If you're helping someone else:

Recommended method: Inside-out method (described above)

Key considerations:

• Communicate throughout: Ask how they feel at each step

• Respect their pain threshold: Some people are more sensitive to pressure

• Watch the toes: Pay close attention to prevent toes (especially the pinky toe) from getting caught in uncomfortable positions

• Move slowly: Allow them to tell you if adjustments are needed

Using Donning Devices

Donning devices reduce physical effort and make application easier, especially for long-term compression therapy users or those with limited hand strength.

Popular Donning Aids

Juzo Slippie Donning Aid: Lightweight device that opens socks for easier foot insertion

Sigvaris Doff N' Donner: Frame-style device that holds socks open and stretches material

Sigvaris Doff N' Donner Cone: Used with the standard Sigvaris donner to help roll stockings onto the device

These tools are particularly valuable for:

• Independent application when living alone

• Reducing reliance on hand/arm strength

• Long-term compression therapy users

Finding the Right Compression Socks

Proper fit and compression level are essential for therapeutic effectiveness. Explore our condition-specific collections:

• Diabetes compression socks: Seamless, non-binding designs for sensitive feet

• DVT compression products: Higher compression levels to prevent blood clots

• Lymphedema compression garments: Graduated compression for fluid management

• Pregnancy compression support: Gentle support for swelling and circulation

Premium brands: Browse our selections from trusted manufacturers like Juzo and Sigvaris, known for quality and durability.