How often should compression therapy be used?

If you have been told to use compression, the next practical question is how much of the day it covers.

Wear time in one line

my.clevelandclinic.org says that in general you will wear compression socks or stockings while you are awake and take them off when you sleep. Notice the words "in general". They leave room for a clinician to set a different pattern for you.

Why your schedule may differ

The general pattern describes socks and stockings. The guide to compression therapy types and benefits, the page on chronic venous insufficiency and the Society for Vascular Surgery page on lymphedema show how widely the treatment is discussed.

Get your wear schedule written down

Ask the clinician to put your schedule in writing: when to put compression on, when to take it off, and for how long.

A question worth asking

Ask what should prompt you to call before the next visit.