An assistive device for donning compression stockings

Use of compression stockings has been demonstrated to be effective in helping heal venous leg ulcers and in reducing associated pain. During the past 5 years or more, patients suffering from edema, varices, or ulcers at the Taipei Veterans General Hospital and Taipei Vein Center, Taiwan, have been encouraged to use compression stockings. However, patients frequently reported difficulty donning the stockings, even with the help of a foot slip or slip-on stocking aid. Because a stocking aid did not function effectively above the heel position, the authors re-engineered and fabricated a reusable stocking aid that features a larger donning cup. This new device has been used successfully on at least 90 patients, who report enhanced willingness to use compression therapy and/or improved ease of stocking use as compared to previously used products or not using an assistive device. The design and use of this stocking aid is described.