All of the Softgrip range are machine washable. Washing instructions:

• Machine wash at a maximum temperature of 40°C
• Dry flat
• Dry away from direct heat
• Do not dry clean, bleach or iron

Washed according to these instructions, Scholl compression stockings, socks and tights should deliver the correct levels of compression for 30 washes.

Scholl compression stockings, socks and tights should be washed after every wear. To assist your patient's concordance with daily wearing of their hosiery, Scholl recommends you prescribe a minimum of two pairs.

Patients who have venous insufficiency in one leg are likely, eventually, to develop similar problems in the other limb.¹ Scholl recommends that patients protect their legs by wearing graduated compression stockings or socks on both legs.

The primary role of graduated compression hosiery is to improve venous return from the ankle and calf.

There is no evidence to suggest that thigh length stockings are more effective than below-knee, although thigh length will offer extra support for patients with swelling above the knee.²

Some patients may find below knee stockings easier to fit than thigh length. Others may find thigh length more aesthetically pleasing, particularly in the hold-up version.

There is no difference in medical benefit between open and closed toe stockings. People with longer feet may find open toes more comfortable.

Open toes may also be more comfortable in the summer, particularly for patients who would like to wear sandals. Open toe stockings allow inspection of the toes to ensure that the blood supply is maintained.

If a patient's hosiery seems too short, advise them to take it back down to their ankle and refit, pulling the garment firmly but without tugging. There is substantial elasticity in the material, which should enable a better fit.

Occasionally, poor dexterity and problems with gripping compression hosiery may make pulling the garment up difficult for some patients. If your patient is finding it hard to grip the hosiery firmly enough, suggest that they try fitting the garment while wearing lightweight household rubber gloves, which can help stop their fingers from slipping.

Compression hosiery is also easier to pull upwards over smooth well cared for skin. Advise your patient to apply moisturiser to their legs every night.

Because Scholl compression hosiery has considerable elasticity, patients may take their garment too far up their leg by pulling too hard. If the patient feels their hosiery is too long, advise them to take them back down to the ankle and refit, pulling more gently.

Compression stockings or socks should NEVER be folded over at the top, as this will make a tight band around the leg, reducing the flow of blood.

Contact our Customer Relations Department on 0800 074 2040. They will help you to order made to measure hosiery for your patient.

Remember that the compression you are aiming for must be graduated, with the tightest fit at the ankle and decreasing compression up the leg. So, for example, choose the stocking that gives the best fit around the ankle, but is not too tight around the calf.

Changes in the patient's condition or the effect of regular graduated compression may alter the diameter of their legs. Re-measuring with each repeat prescription - usually at three months - is therefore advisable.

It is also wise to re-measure should the patient feel the fit of their hosiery has changed significantly.

Ultima Technology uses a revolutionary fibre, Lycra T902C to increase the elasticity in the stockings. This gives them several advantages over the old Softgrip stockings. They are:

• Softer, silkier feeling
• Easier to fit
• More comfortable to wear

Patients changed from the old Softgrip stockings can be reassured that despite their finer feel, their new stockings deliver compression just as effectively as their previous Softgrip stockings.

Lycra T902C is a modern fibre with elastic qualities. When used in stockings it allows them to stretch easily without any loss of compression, making them easier to put on and even more comfortable to wear.

All Scholl compression hosiery can be purchased over the counter in pharmacy. So if a patient who would like a different colour - black for evening wear for example - or socks to wear under trousers, they can order them from their pharmacist.

It is important, however, to ensure that the patient's legs have been measured so that the correct size can be purchased.