Compression Stocking Service

At Phelans Pharmacy we offer a compression stocking consultation and measurement with one of our trained occupational therapists.

As our legs naturally swell throughout the day, it is advised that you make your appointment before midday. After this, measurements may not be fully accurate. 

The measuring fee is €15.00.

What are compression stockings?

Wearing compression stockings helps to improve blood flow and circulation. As a result, they lessen discomfort, pain and swelling in your legs. Compression stockings can keep your legs from getting tired and achy and they can help prevent and treat varicose veins and can help prevent the development of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots).

The blood in the veins of your legs often has to work against gravity to return to the heart. For this reason, veins and arteries in your legs are more prone to growing weaker and becoming inefficient. That is where compression socks and stockings can help.

Compression stockings are snug fitting stretchy socks that gently squeeze your leg. Graduated compression stockings are tighter around your ankle and get looser as they go further up your leg. They are designed to help the blood flow in the right direction up your leg and towards the heart. 

Compression stockings come in a variety of sizes, colours and strengths. The strengths are available in 3 classes, class 1 provides light compression, class 2 is a medium compression and class 3 is strong compression. A consultation with our pharmacist will help you choose the right stockings for your needs.

Who can benefit from wearing compression stockings?

• People who have a history of blood clots or DVT ( deep vein thrombosis)
• People who have had recent surgery
• Those who are unable to leave their bed or have a hard time moving their legs
• People who stand for long periods during the day
• Athletes to help recovery of muscles
• Pregnant women
• Women who take the contraceptive pill or HRT  (hormone replacement therapy)
• People who spend long stretches of time on airplanes

Compression stockings should be replaced at least every 3-6 months or sooner if you notice them losing their stretch. You will need to be measured every time you need to reorder stockings.

Compression stockings are available with your medical card if you have a prescription from your GP.

What can I expect at a consultation?

You will have a private consultation with a Phelans team member in the consultation room. You will be measured to see what size stockings you need and the pharmacist will advise what class of stocking is required to best suit your needs.

Once you have chosen the right product with the pharmacist, your stockings will be ordered and we will contact you when they are available for collection.

Where can I avail of the service and how much does it cost?

This service is available in all Phelans stores. You can call your local store to make an appointment for your consultation. The measuring fee is €12.50.

 

For hygiene reasons there are no exchanges/returns for personal items such as compression stockings etc.