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Ask your doctor which compression level is right for you. Compression socks come in 4 main compression levels. Each level is measured in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg. Socks rated at a higher mmHg will have a higher compression level.

Mild compression socks are rated 8-15 mmHg.

For moderate compression, try a sock rated 15-20 mmHg.

Firm compression socks have a rating of 20-30 mmHg.

For extra firm compression, opt for a sock with a rating of 30-40 mmHg.

Measure your ankle. The first measurement you will need to take is the circumference of your ankle. Take a tape measure and place it around the narrowest part of your ankle. The tape measure should be positioned just above your anklebone. Record the measurement.

Turn the upper half of the sock inside out. Reach into the compression sock with one hand and grab the toe of the sock. Then use your hands to turn the upper half of the compression sock inside out.

Place your foot in the sock. Once you have the compression sock turned inside out, gently place your foot in the toe of the sock. Then slide the stocking up over your heel. Make sure the top of the stocking remains inside out.

Slide the sock up your leg. Once your heel is securely inside the sock, gently slide the sock up your leg. Do this as slowly and gently as possible to prevent tearing holes in the stocking or stretching it out.

Do not pull on the top of the sock. Pulling on the top of a compression sock may cause the sock to rip. Never attempt to put on compression socks by pulling them on by the top of the sock. This can also cause unwanted stretching of the fabric.

Put the socks on when you wake up each morning. Your legs are less swollen when you wake up, which means the compression socks will be easier to put on. Try putting the socks on as soon as you wake, even before you get out of bed.

Wear the socks all day long. To get the most from your compression socks, you will want to wear them for the entire day. Wearing the compression socks all day long will help improve circulation, keeping blood flowing steadily while you are awake.

Remove the socks before bed. Unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise, you should take the compression socks off before you go to bed each night. Do not sleep in compression socks unless your doctor instructs you to do so. You should also remove compression socks before bathing.

Hand wash new socks before you wear them. When you buy a new pair of compression socks, make sure you hand wash the socks before putting them on. This will make the fabric more flexible, which means the socks will be easier to put on. Try hand washing them in cool water with a mild laundry detergent.