The majority of women, or sometimes men, that wear compression stockings, whether pantyhose or knee highs, have had it recommended to help with blood flow, aches in their legs, and other pains/discomforts. You wear compression stockings to improve blood flow in the veins of your legs. Compression stockings gently squeeze your legs to move blood up your legs. This helps prevent leg swelling and, to a lesser extent, blood clots. Compression hose ("graduated" or "gradient" pantyhose) can improve circulation and decrease venous swelling, therefore easing the uncomfortable symptoms of varicosities and helping to prevent blood clots in the legs.

• But a good rule of thumb is to wear compression socks for no more than four hours at a time.
• This will allow your body to adjust to the pressure and get the maximum benefit from the socks without causing any harm.
• You should wear your compression stockings during the day and take them off before going to bed.
• Put them on again first thing in the morning.
• You should be given at least 2 stockings, or 2 pairs if you're wearing them on both legs.