Compression Stockings in Nanton, Alberta
Nanton Family Pharmacy carries compression stockings and can help you understand available sizes, styles and compression options — the right product depends on your measurements and why compression was recommended.
Medical-grade compression may require a prescription. Call ahead to confirm fitting support and availability.
Sizing & Fitting Support
Ask what's currently available
Prescription Options
Required for medical-grade compression
Call the Pharmacy
403-646-0510
What Are Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings are specially designed garments that apply controlled pressure to the legs — generally strongest around the ankle, gradually changing higher up the leg. When appropriately selected and fitted, compression garments may support blood flow and help manage certain circulation- or swelling-related concerns.
- ✓Different compression levels
- ✓Multiple lengths and sizes
- ✓Various fabrics and colours
- ✓Open-toe and closed-toe styles
- ✓Waist and fastening options
- ✓Ready-made or custom-made designs
Not every product suits every person
The required level and style should be based on individual needs — not every compression product is appropriate for every person.
Why Might Compression Stockings Be Recommended?
A healthcare professional may recommend compression stockings as part of care for concerns such as:
This list is educational and doesn't determine whether compression is appropriate for you. Leg swelling, pain or skin changes can have different causes — a pharmacist may recommend you speak with another healthcare professional first.
Medical Compression Versus Support Stockings
Over-the-Counter Products
Some over-the-counter support stockings provide lighter compression and may be used for general comfort or mild symptoms.
- Still must fit correctly to be effective
- Too tight, too loose or wrong length reduces comfort and benefit
- Generally don't require a prescription
Specific, Graduated Pressure
Medical-grade stockings may require:
- A prescription and clinical assessment
- Leg measurements and a particular compression level
- Professional fitting and ongoing monitoring
Don't select a higher compression level simply because it appears stronger — the appropriate pressure depends on your health and the reason the garment is being used.
Why Proper Sizing Matters
Fit is one of the most important parts of selecting compression stockings. A garment that's too loose may not provide the intended compression — one that's too tight, rolls down, folds or gathers can create uncomfortable pressure.
- ✓Ankle circumference
- ✓Calf circumference
- ✓Thigh circumference
- ✓Lower-leg and full-leg length
- ✓Other manufacturer-specific measurements
Sizes aren't interchangeable
Measurements must be matched to the sizing guide for the specific brand and product — sizes are not always interchangeable between manufacturers.
Compression Stocking Fitting Support
Contact Nanton Family Pharmacy to ask what fitting assistance is currently available.
Reviewing Your Needs
Staff may ask why compression was recommended, whether you have a prescription and compression level, previous use, affected areas, relevant conditions and any difficulty putting on garments. This helps identify products to consider — it doesn't replace a clinical assessment when one is required.
Taking Measurements
Measurements are taken according to the selected product's fitting instructions. Leg size can change during the day, particularly with swelling — the pharmacy will explain when measurements should be taken.
Selecting a Style
The pharmacy reviews available styles matching your measurements and compression level, considering leg shape, ease of application, footwear, skin sensitivity, mobility and prescriber instructions.
Reviewing Application and Care
The team can explain how to put stockings on and remove them, avoid bunching, wash and dry them, inspect for wear, and when a replacement or another fitting may be needed.
Available Compression Stocking Styles
Product availability varies — ask the pharmacy what's currently in stock.
Knee-High
Covers the lower leg, ending below the knee. Commonly used when compression is needed primarily lower down — the top band must sit correctly and shouldn't be folded.
Thigh-High
Extends above the knee, often with a grip or silicone band to help it stay in place. Correct sizing reduces slipping, rolling or uneven pressure.
Waist-High & Pantyhose
Provides coverage through both legs and the waist — considered when compression above the thigh is required or preferred.
Open-Toe & Closed-Toe
The right choice depends on fit, footwear, foot concerns, prescriber instructions and personal preference.
Ready-Made
Produced in standard sizes — appropriate when your measurements fit the manufacturer's sizing range and required compression level.
Custom-Made
Manufactured to individual measurements when standard sizing doesn't fit properly. Contact the pharmacy to ask about custom ordering.
How to Put On Compression Stockings
Follow the instructions provided with your specific garment — general steps may include:
Make sure the skin is dry.
Turn the stocking partially inside out to the heel.
Place the foot into the stocking.
Position the heel correctly.
Gradually work the material up the leg.
Smooth the fabric without pulling only from the top.
Check that there are no folds, wrinkles or rolled bands.
Don't fold the top of a compression stocking down unless the manufacturer or healthcare professional specifically instructs you to do so. Application aids or gloves may be available for people who have difficulty gripping the garment.
When to Wear Them & How to Care for Them
Many people are instructed to apply compression garments earlier in the day, before significant swelling develops — but the correct schedule depends on your condition, prescribed compression, routine, skin health and provider instructions.
Don't sleep in compression stockings unless a qualified healthcare professional has specifically advised you to.
Caring for the Garment
- ✓Wash after each use or as directed
- ✓Use mild soap, avoid bleach and fabric softener
- ✓Keep away from high heat; air-dry when instructed
- ✓Avoid twisting or wringing
- ✓Check regularly for worn or stretched areas
When Should Compression Stockings Be Replaced?
Compression garments lose elasticity through regular wear and washing. Replacement timing depends on:
A new fitting may be needed if your measurements, swelling, weight or health needs change.
Travel and Pregnancy
During Travel
Compression garments are sometimes considered for long periods of sitting during travel. Travel needs vary based on personal risk, trip length, mobility and medical history — compression stockings are not a substitute for an individual travel-health assessment. Speak with a pharmacist if you're unsure whether compression is appropriate.
During Pregnancy
Some people experience leg discomfort, varicose veins or swelling during pregnancy. A healthcare professional can assess whether compression stockings may be appropriate and recommend the required level and style — measurements may need to be repeated as pregnancy progresses.
Prescription and Insurance Requirements
Some medical-grade compression stockings require a prescription for clinical use or private insurance reimbursement. A prescription may need to include the compression level, garment length, medical indication, quantity and other specifications.
Before purchasing, contact your benefit provider to ask about eligible compression levels, prescription requirements, approved suppliers, fitting documentation, replacement frequency, annual limits and required claim forms.
No Guarantee of Reimbursement
Nanton Family Pharmacy cannot guarantee that a product will be reimbursed — confirm coverage with your insurer before purchasing.
Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) Coverage
AADL may help eligible Albertans pay for compression stockings and garments, after a clinical assessment and authorization.
- ✓The patient must be assessed by an approved healthcare professional
- ✓Funding must be authorized before purchase
- ✓Products must be obtained through an approved AADL vendor
- ✓Cost-sharing may apply
- ✓Upgrades may involve additional patient costs
AADL does not reimburse products purchased before authorization — confirm eligibility and vendor status before buying.
Eligibility is limited to specific medical conditions and program criteria. Ask Nanton Family Pharmacy whether it's currently an approved AADL compression-garment vendor.
Compression Stockings and Pharmacy Care
Compression stockings are part of the home-health and medical supplies available through Nanton Family Pharmacy.
- Supports and braces
- Diabetes supplies
- Ostomy supplies
- Home-care products
- Medication reviews
- Health screening
- Prescription services
- Prescription delivery
Visit Nanton Family Pharmacy
2119 20 StreetNanton, Alberta T0L 1R0
Phone: 403-646-0510
Fax: 403-646-0511
Email: info@nantonfamilypharmacy.com
Hours
Monday–Friday: 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Call 403-646-0510 to confirm current brands, sizes, styles and fitting availability.
Does Nanton Family Pharmacy sell compression stockings?+
Do I need a prescription?+
Can the pharmacy measure me for compression stockings?+
How do I know which compression level I need?+
Is stronger compression always better?+
What's the difference between support stockings and medical compression?+
Are knee-high compression stockings effective?+
Can I buy compression stockings for travel?+
Can compression stockings be worn during pregnancy?+
Can I sleep in compression stockings?+
How should compression stockings fit?+
How often should they be replaced?+
Are compression stockings covered by insurance?+
Does AADL cover compression stockings?+
Can I return compression stockings?+
Find Compression Stockings in Nanton
Contact Nanton Family Pharmacy to ask about availability, sizes, fitting support, prescriptions and potential insurance requirements.
Call 403-646-0510