Compression Stocking Reviews #3 and #4

Two more compression stocking reviews:

Jobst 20-30 mm Hg Knee High (Closed Toe)

This pair is identical to the other pair of knee-highs I reviewed, except that it has the (normal) closed toe design.

It's fine ... versatile (bought it in black for variety). Does a good job of keeping the blood flowing! But, it's hard not to compare against the open toe version, which really shines both for comfort inside shoes (especially when you're doing a lot of walking) and ease of donning.

Jobst 20-30 mm Hg Thigh High

This is my second thigh high review as well. On the plus side: the look of these (in black) was close to a non-compression tight. I doubt anyone could tell the difference if they didn't already know it was a compression garment. Also, the material is softer and more comfortable than the Medivens I reviewed previously.

There is one big drawback, though -- the silicon band at the top of the Jobst is not nearly as effective as the one used by Mediven. These stockings need to be pulled up frequently -- whether just after showering, with/without lotion, etc. Powder might help (haven't tried that yet). Is this enough of an irritation not to wear them? Probably not -- they'd be great with a skirt (in winter). But, for every day use, I'd go with a knee-high or the Mediven thigh highs.

In sum ... all options did a good job in keeping swelling in check. There were some differences in comfort and appearance that might be important depending on individual needs. And, since it's winter now, I feel it's important to point out that all bets are off when summer comes! I'm still wondering how I'll figure out the whole compression stocking thing when it's 110 in the shade ... more news on that when it comes in.

One important note: you may be wondering whether knee high or thigh high stockings are indicated based on whether your DVT is in the thigh, calf or both. In may case, the DVT is mostly in my thigh, extending a bit to the calf -- but, my doctor pointed out that knee high is sufficient even in my case, because the calf is where the swelling happens. The swelling prevention results have borne this out -- the knee highs were just as effective. Of course, for overall support, the thigh highs do have an advantage (they were great at a trade show -- least tired my legs have ever been!). Then again, appearance and comfort make a difference, too (hard to imagine the thigh highs being tolerable in the Sacramento summer).

Bottom line: if your swelling tends to be in the lower leg only, knee highs may do the trick, but if you have questions, you should of course ask your doctor!