Queen size support stockings offer a graduated compression that aids blood flow from the lower leg towards the heart for plus size women. Compression is tightest at the ankle and gradually lessens as it works up your leg.
Purpose of Support Stockings
Support stockings are often recommended by doctors for people who suffer from circulation problems in their legs. This includes:
- Aching and swollen legs
- Varicose veins
- Leg ulcers
- Tired legs
Wearing support stockings won't cure these conditions, but in the case of varicose veins, it can help to prevent further vein deterioration. In fact, the use of support stockings is recommended following leg vein surgery so that you don't develop the condition again.
Support stockings are also worn by people who have jobs that require them to stand in one place for most of the day, or who have to sit in a confined area for a lengthy amount of time, such as on an airplane.
Finding the Right Fit
When it comes to finding the right fit for plus size support stockings, measuring your legs is necessary. For people who suffer from swelling, it's vital to measure your leg in the morning before you climb out of bed. Depending on the length of stockings you buy, support hose size is based on the circumference of your leg at the ankle, calf and thigh.
When shopping for queen size support stockings, it's good to know in advance that many of the manufacturers don't label them as queen size but categorize them by measurement. This is really the safest way to know that you will get support stockings proportioned to fit your body.
Support stockings come in open-toe or closed-toe styles. The open-toe variation isn't recommended for those who have bunions or very wide feet, though, because it may cause too tight a fit. Compression socks also come in a variety of lengths including:
- Ankle-high
- Knee-high
- Full length hosiery
Your doctor will let you know which type of stockings will provide the support you need.
Wearing Your Queen Size Support Stockings
Once you have your stockings, it takes some practice to learn how to get them on. One thing to remember for those who have trouble with swelling is that you measured your legs first thing in the morning, and that's when you should put on your stockings. Not only will they be easier to get on, but they will also help to control swelling throughout the day.
When you pull the support stocking onto the leg, distribute the fabric evenly onto the leg and never fold over the band at the top because circulation will become constricted.
Don't Wear Support Stocking to Sleep
Your support stockings should not be worn when you go to bed unless your doctor has told you to do so.
How to Tell if Support Stockings Are Too Tight
Support stockings are supposed to fit tightly, but if you experience tingling in your toes, remove the stocking and talk to your doctor or health care professional for advice.
Don't Cut or Modify Support Stockings
While you may be tempted to snip your support stockings to make them more comfortable, this is not recommended because it will change the compression.
Support Stockings as a Tax Deduction
If your doctor prescribed support stockings (or other support products) for you, then they may be claimed as a tax deduction. However, you will need a letter from your doctor in which he explains the "medical necessity".
Caring for Your Support Stockings
Support hose are not cheap, so it pays to take good care of them to make sure they last. Each manufacturer will provide care instructions, but in general the following tips will extend the life of your stockings:
- Do not dry them in the clothes dryer.
- Wear latex gloves when putting on your stockings to avoid holes and snags caused by fingernails, jewelry, etc.
- Keep toenails trimmed
Replace Your Stocking Every Six Months
The elasticity of your support stockings will gradually weaken over time and might not provide the compression you need. Because of this, it's best to replace your support stockings every six months. Along with this, it is important to re-measure your legs before you buy new stockings to be sure you're buying the right size.
