Question:
Is there any device that will aid in putting on stockings at home after RNY?

I wear prescription compression stockings now due to varicose veins. They can be difficult to pull on and I'm sure they will be even more difficult after surgery since I won't be able to bend down so easily. Is there any sort of devce I can use myself to pull the stockings on?    — [Anonymous] (posted on November 11, 2001)

November 11, 2001
I suggest you call ahead to the hospital where you'll be having the procedure and ask for the Occupational Therapy area. When I had my surgery recently, they had someone from Occ.Therapy stop by on my 3rd day to offer some tools designed to help with your post-op recuperation including a device to put on socks or stockings. If they do not, please let me know and I will see if I still have my device to send. Best of luck, and take care!
   — Kathleen T.

November 11, 2001
When I first came home from the hospital, I couldn't bend over, or even wipe myself because of the staples in my stomach and the pain. My husband and mom, rigged up all kinds of things, and within days, the pain was gone too. You may find that you don't need the extra expense of some device, but perhaps just request someone's assistance for a few days.
   — [Anonymous]

November 14, 2001
Yes! There are many aids like this on the web that you can search for. There are special websites selling home health and living aids for invalids and disabled people; I was searching for something once for my grandmother and saw a dual hook-type thing that you attach to the stocking when it is at the ankle, and then use the long hooks to pull the stocking up to the knee. Sorry I can't remember the website now, but try searching under www.google.com for the words "bedridden" "compression stockings" or "elder care."
   — [Anonymous]

February 23, 2002
Rubber gloves will help in getting on support stockings. Also after you get them on if you will put your hands around your ankles and start pushing up and work toward your knees it will help get them streched up tight.
   — Sharon M.