Compression socks are specialized medical devices prescribed following major orthopedic procedures such as hip replacement surgery. These knee-high garments apply a specific amount of pressure, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), to the lower legs. Their purpose is to support the body’s circulatory system during the initial recovery period when mobility is restricted. These stockings are an integral part of the post-operative care plan, not a simple over-the-counter item.
Understanding Compression Post-Surgery
The use of compression stockings after hip surgery is a preventative measure against Venous Thromboembolism (VTE). VTE includes Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in a deep vein, and Pulmonary Embolism (PE), which occurs if a DVT travels to the lungs. Major surgery, combined with reduced activity, significantly increases the risk of developing these clots.
During surgery, blood flow may be compromised due to anesthesia and tissue trauma. Immobility causes blood to move slower, increasing the chance of pooling in the lower extremities. The specialized fabric applies graduated pressure, meaning the pressure is strongest at the ankle and gradually lessens higher up the leg.
This graduated pressure gently compresses the veins, helping to narrow the vessel and increase the velocity of blood flow back toward the heart. This assists venous return and reduces the likelihood of blood stagnation, a factor in clot formation. The socks also manage post-operative swelling (edema) by preventing excess fluid from accumulating in the lower leg tissues.
The Standard Timeline for Use
The duration for wearing compression socks depends on individual recovery milestones and the surgeon’s specific instructions. General guidelines typically range from two to six weeks post-operation. Patients are usually instructed to begin wearing the stockings immediately after the procedure while still in the hospital.
The initial phase involves continuous wear, both day and night, for the first few days up to two weeks. This period carries the highest risk for blood clot formation due to acute immobility and the body’s inflammatory response to surgery. Continuous compression provides constant support to the circulatory system during this time.
As mobility improves, often around the two-week mark, patients may transition to wearing the socks only during the daytime or when active. The surgeon bases the decision to discontinue use on achieving specific mobility goals, such as walking easily without an assistive device and a reduction in lower leg swelling. Patients with pre-existing circulatory issues or a history of DVT may be advised to continue use for longer, sometimes up to six or twelve weeks.
Guidelines for Application and Monitoring
For compression socks to be effective and safe, they must fit correctly, requiring precise measurements of the leg for sizing. The most common compression levels prescribed range from 15–20 mmHg or 20–30 mmHg. If the stocking is too tight, it can cause discomfort or restrict circulation, rather than assist it.
Patients should check their legs regularly for signs that the sock is improperly fitted or causing an issue. Symptoms such as numbness, tingling, cold toes, or severe pain may indicate the sock is too tight or bunched up. Excessive redness, blistering, or skin breakdown beneath the garment should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately.
The stockings are typically removed only for bathing and brief periods to allow the skin to breathe, especially during the initial continuous-wear phase. It is important to keep the skin underneath the sock clean and dry to prevent irritation. Applying cornstarch or baby powder before donning the socks can help reduce friction and moisture, making the application process easier.