The wearing time for gradient compression stockings is dependent on both the reason for wearing the compression and the amount of compression. A doctor is the best guide for this.
Bed-bound patients may be advised by their doctors to wear anti-embolism stockings (16-18 mmHg) to prevent blood clots from forming in the deep veins of the leg
Immediately following sclerotherapy doctors may instruct you to wear a specific level of compression continuously for a specified number of hours or days depending on the size of the veins injected.
Individuals with lymphedema are advised to follow the wearing schedule recommended by their doctor or therapist.
Individuals with chronic venous problems such as venous related leg swelling, skin changes, or varicose veins, generally wear the compression stockings while out of bed (approximately 16 hours per day) and remove them when retiring.