Varicose vein stockings: above-knee or below-knee, and how to choose

Varicose veins can make legs feel heavy, tired and achy, especially after long hours on your feet. Compression stockings are one way many people find relief from that discomfort. They do not remove varicose veins.

Below-knee or above-knee?

• Below-knee (BK) stockings reach just below the knee. They suit most people whose symptoms are in the calf and ankle, and they are easier to put on.
• Above-knee (AK) stockings reach up to the thigh. They are used when symptoms or veins extend above the knee.

Humable’s Varicose Vein Stocking (AK) and Varicose Vein Stocking (BK) are made of cotton, nylon, spandex and Lycra and come in sizes S to XXL.

Who should talk to a doctor first

• People with diabetes, or reduced feeling in the legs
• People with poor circulation or arterial disease
• Anyone with a leg ulcer, skin infection or broken skin
• Anyone with sudden swelling in one leg, which can be a medical emergency

How to measure

Measure in the morning, before the legs swell. For below-knee stockings measure around the widest part of the calf. For above-knee stockings measure the calf and the thigh. Match the numbers to the product’s sizes, and ask us if you are between sizes.

Compression level

Stockings come in different compression levels. The level should suit your condition, so ask your doctor which is right for you. Message us if you need to know the compression of a specific Humable stocking.

Putting them on

• Put them on in the morning, before your legs swell
• Smooth out wrinkles, since folds can press on the skin
• Take them off at night unless your doctor says otherwise

Looking after them

Follow the care label on your pack. Elastic wears out with use, so replace stockings when they lose their stretch.

Other things that help

Walk regularly, avoid standing or sitting still for long, raise your legs when resting and keep a healthy weight.