Putting on Compression Stockings with Disposable Gloves

Putting on compression stockings, especially those with a defined toe area, can be challenging without specialized aids. The most difficult part is often getting the stocking over the foot itself. Disposable gloves can be a highly effective tool, providing excellent grip to hold and pull the stocking with ease.

General Approach

The key is to work the stocking material from the mid-foot area, gradually pulling it in small increments. First, focus on getting the entire foot area, up to the heel, smooth. Then, pull the stocking over the heel, and finally, extend it up the lower leg.

Step-by-Step for the Toe and Foot Area

1. Initial Placement: Take the stocking in your hands like any other and pull it as far as possible only over the toe area. You will soon encounter resistance as the stocking is particularly tight here, and the midfoot is wider.
2. Using Gloves for Grip: With disposable gloves on, grasp the stocking with both hands, on the right and left sides, at the point where the material stops.
3. Pulling Incrementally: Pull the stocking from this point towards the heel. Initially, with a new stocking, this might only move minimally, but it’s a start.
4. Repeat and Smooth: Re-grasp the stocking on both sides at the new stopping point and pull it another small section towards the heel. The material will bunch up towards the heel. Continue this process, grasping the bunched material and pulling it a small piece towards or over the heel and onto the leg.
5. Achieving Smoothness: Work in small increments until the stocking material in the mid-foot area is smooth and lies flat against the foot. The amount of bunched material will continuously decrease.

Step-by-Step for the Leg Area

1. Ensure Foot Comfort: Before pulling the stocking up the leg, ensure the foot area is completely smooth and wrinkle-free. This prevents discomfort and potential issues with blood or lymph flow. Stroke both hand palms (one above, one below) from the toes over the entire foot to feel for any wrinkles.
2. Pulling Up the Leg: Once the foot area is fully on and smooth, grasp the stocking material directly above the heel (on the leg). Pull it upwards towards the knee, often in small sections, using your thumbs inside the stocking if helpful. Continue pulling the stocking up the calf towards the knee. This part can often be achieved without the gloves.