Compression Stocking Fitting in Ottawa
Compression stockings work best when the compression level, garment style, and fit are right for the person wearing them. A stocking that is too loose may not provide useful support, while an inappropriate compression level or poor fit may be uncomfortable and may not be suitable for your health needs.
At our Gloucester clinic, our Registered Nurses provide standalone 30-minute compression-stocking fitting appointments. We offer both over-the-counter and medical-grade compression and carry JOBST and Lunatik Athletik stockings.
Appointment length and fitting fee
Appointment: A standalone 30-minute clinic appointment.
Fitting fee: $60. The fitting fee is waived when compression stockings are purchased at the appointment.
Compression measurements and product fitting are completed at our Gloucester clinic rather than during home visits.
Who compression socks may help
Compression socks are commonly considered by:
- People experiencing swelling in the lower legs or ankles
- Anyone who spends long periods standing at work
- People with tired, aching, or heavy-feeling legs
- Frequent travellers
- Active people looking for recovery support
Compression is not appropriate for every person or every circulation concern. At the appointment, the nurse reviews the reason for compression, the prescription when applicable, and relevant contraindications before proceeding with a fitting.
Prescription and compression levels
Both over-the-counter and medical-grade compression are available.
For medical-grade compression, a prescription is required before stockings can be dispensed. Please bring the prescription provided by your family doctor to the appointment. The prescribed compression level is reviewed by the nurse, and the appropriate garment is ordered based on that prescription.
Your family doctor determines the medical-grade compression level. Our nurse then reviews the prescription, assesses fit and measurements, and checks contraindications before the garment is dispensed.
Why professional fitting matters
Off-the-shelf compression socks bought without measurement are a common source of frustration. Sizing is based on actual leg measurements — usually the ankle and calf circumference and, depending on the garment, leg length.
Being measured by a nurse helps ensure the garment matches your measurements and intended use. Your nurse will also provide practical instruction on how to put the stockings on, remove them, and care for them.
What the 30-minute fitting involves
A compression-stocking fitting may include:
- Review of why you are considering compression
- Review of your prescription for medical-grade compression
- Review of contraindications and relevant health information
- Measurement of the leg
- Selection of an appropriate length, style, and garment
- Garment fitting or ordering based on the prescription
- Instruction on application, removal, and care
- Discussion of application aids when hand strength, flexibility, or mobility makes stockings difficult to use
Please bring your medical-grade compression prescription to the appointment. If a prescribed garment needs to be ordered, your nurse will explain the next steps.
Putting compression stockings on successfully
Many people stop wearing compression stockings because they are difficult to apply. Technique makes a significant difference.
During your fitting, we will show you how to position the stocking, avoid bunching or rolling, and smooth the fabric evenly. We can also discuss application aids when hand strength, flexibility, or mobility makes the process difficult.
Booking and location
Compression fitting is available at our clinic:
Queensway Medical Centre
300-5307 Canotek Road, Gloucester, ON K1J 9M2
Wheelchair accessible, free parking, just off the Montreal Road exit
Call (613) 746-6223 ext. 4 or email beckyandco.info@gmail.com.
Common questions
Can I book a fitting on its own?
Yes. Compression fitting is a standalone 30-minute clinic appointment.
How much does a fitting cost?
The fitting fee is $60. This fee is waived when compression stockings are purchased at the appointment.
What compression levels do you offer?
Both over-the-counter and medical-grade compression are offered. Medical-grade compression is ordered according to the compression level prescribed by your family doctor.
Do I need a prescription?
A prescription is required to dispense medical-grade compression. Please bring your prescription to the appointment so the nurse can review it and order the appropriate garment. Over-the-counter options are also available.
How do you determine whether compression is safe for me?
The nurse thoroughly reviews the prescription and relevant contraindications at the appointment before proceeding with medical-grade compression.
Do I need to be measured?
Yes. Proper sizing is based on leg measurements rather than shoe size alone.
Can compression fitting be done during a home visit?
No. Proper measurement and product fitting are completed at our Gloucester clinic.