For those who have been wearing compression socks for a while, you know how difficult it can be to put them on the first time you had a pair. For pregnant women, physically challenged individuals, and people with health conditions, you can only imagine the difficulties and challenges they will encounter each time they put on compression socks.
Thank goodness for thinking minds because multiple devices and gadgets are available to help wear compression hoses, socks, and sleeves. As stated, compression socks are difficult to put on since they are different in composition and use compared to ordinary socks. For instance, if you have arthritis in your hip joints, it would be painful just to bend and pull up your socks properly. Here are the people who would most likely need sock aids:
Having a sock aid to assist in wearing compression socks will be a great help under these circumstances.
1. Gadgets To Help Put On Compression Hose
There are several kinds of sock aids that you can purchase online or in physical stores. It would be best if you determined how much this will be of help and the practicality of use, considering your physical and medical status.
Examples of sock aids and gadgets are:
2. Best Sock Aid for Compression Socks
Here are some recommendable sock aids that are available online and in medical supplies stores:
It’s a simple and compact device made of flexible plastic. It has grooves to avoid the compression socks from popping off the device with a 24-inch long band to pull up the socks. Just simply slide the stocking aid into the socks, and you’re good to go.
Ideal for below the knee to above the knee stockings. Recommended for Medical Grade Class 1 and Class 2. Perfect for individuals who independently dress up.
They are intended for compression sleeves. Very basic slip and slide concept. Non-abrasive, tear-resistant nylon, and reusable. Perfect for individuals who can’t bend or with a loss of flexibility.
A sturdy stocking aid with adjustable ropes and comfortable foam handles. It has a wide and slip-resistant cuff that secures the sock in place. Perfect for any kind and any length of compression stockings. Ideal for those who are recovering from injuries or surgeries, pregnant women, and seniors.
It is made with a steel frame with comfortable foam handles. It can be used seated or standing up. Easy to use. Just simply open the socks and slide them from the bottom upwards. Perfect for those with limited bending movement or mobility, recovering from injuries and surgeries. This model is recommended for small to medium calves.
Compression socks remover device. Quickly takes off stockings without the difficulty of tugging them off your lower extremities. Lightweight and portable. Non-abrasive plastic will not cut the skin and not harm the garment. Simply insert the donner in the sock behind the leg, and push it downwards until the heel area.
3. Gloves to Help Put On Compression Stockings
Donning gloves are also a supplemental sock aid, especially if you are experiencing peripheral neuropathy or arthritis. These gloves help your sensitive hands handle tight compression socks and sock aid gadgets.
Here are some donning gloves available on Amazon:
These donning gloves are created of durable cloth material. Protects sensitive hands in handling any kind of material — metal, plastic, and any garments.
Materials used are 55% nitrile, 44% polyester, and 1% spandex. Non-slip, which can have a good grip on fabrics. Non-abrasive, which means it won’t snag the compression stockings.
These rubber gloves are a protective and practical way of wearing and removing compression garments. It has a ridged surface for a better grip and padded fingers for the comfort of use.
4. How to Put On Compression Stockings on Someone Else
If you are taking care of an elderly or a patient with mobility issues, you may be wary of how to put on compression socks. You must first consider handling the person or loved one with care, especially if there is a flexibility issue. Here are helpful steps to do that:
You can also apply powder on the legs and feet so that the socks can glide easily onto the feet and legs.
Demonstration of different donning and doffing aids for compression hosiery
Unisex
8-15 mmHg