How to fit Scholl stockings and socks

Stockings or socks should always be put on first thing in the morning, before legs become oedematous as the day progresses
Fingernails should be free from rough edges which could cause snags and ladders
Remove any jewellery which could catch as the stockings or socks are put on
Identify with the patient any sore patches on the legs and treat these with special care
If an open toe stocking is to be fitted, put a fitting socklet over the foot

Step 1 of 11

Put your hand and arm down the stocking or sock as far as the heel pouch. Grasp the heel pouch between your finger and thumb.

Step 2 of 11

Still holding on to the heel pouch, withdraw your arm, turning the stocking or sock inside out, but leaving the foot section tucked in.

Step 3 of 11

Turn back the opening to the foot section about 1” (2.5cm), then put two or three fingers of each hand into the opening and stretch outwards.

Step 4 of 11

Slip the stocking or sock over the patient’s foot as far as is comfortable. Locate the seam of the toe pocket at the base of the toes. Turn back the fold you made at the opening and fit the heel pouch snugly over the heel.

Step 5 of 11

Gather the stocking or sock into folds of about 2” (5cm) around the ankle.

Step 6 of 11

Working in sections from the ankle, ease the stocking or sock up the leg a fold at a time. Do not force or tug it.

Step 7 of 11

Once the stocking or sock is fully extended, take it back down to the ankle.

Step 8 of 11

Then hold the top and, with a twisting motion, take the stocking or sock back up the leg again. This will give a better fit and will help to keep the stocking or sock in place.

Step 9a of 11

Fitting knee length stockings or socks
Knee length stockings and socks should always come up to the bend in the knee.

Step 9b of 11

Fitting thigh length stockings
Ideally thigh length stockings should cover the leg to above the highest visible varicose vein.
Unless fitting hold-ups, once in place secure with at least two suspenders.

Step 10 of 11

Gently smooth away any tight areas or wrinkles with the palm of your hand.

Step 11 of 11

If fitting a closed toe stocking or sock, to make sure the patient’s toes are comfortable, gently pull on the tip of the stocking or sock to create a little extra room.

Removing Scholl stockings, and socks

Stockings should be peeled off gently, never rolled or pulled

Scholl for Legs