Compression Stockings & Compression Therapy in Waterloo — The Boardwalk Pharmacy
Compression Stockings & Compression Therapy in Waterloo
Whether your doctor has prescribed compression therapy or you're considering it for travel, recovery, or comfort, The Boardwalk Pharmacy carries medical-grade compression stockings from Sigvaris, JOBST, MediVen, and Sockwell in all major sizes and strengths — with professional fitting and direct insurance billing.
When compression therapy helps
- Varicose veins & venous insufficiency — gradient compression improves blood return from the legs, reducing swelling and discomfort.
- DVT prevention — for long-haul flights, post-surgical recovery, or patients with clotting risk factors.
- Post-surgery — after hip, knee, or vascular surgery to reduce swelling and clot risk during recovery.
- Lymphedema — managing chronic limb swelling, often after cancer treatment.
- Pregnancy — relieving leg fatigue and swelling, especially in third trimester.
- Standing or seated all day — nurses, teachers, retail staff, truck drivers, and office workers benefit from preventive 15–20 mmHg stockings.
- Athletic recovery — runners and triathletes use compression to accelerate recovery and reduce DOMS.
Compression levels we stock
Mild support. Travel, mild varicose veins, pregnancy, all-day standing. No prescription needed.
Moderate. Most common medical use. Varicose veins, post-sclerotherapy, mild lymphedema, DVT prevention. Often prescribed.
Firm. Severe venous insufficiency, severe lymphedema, post-thrombotic syndrome. Prescription required.
Extra firm. Specialist use only — severe lymphedema, lipedema, advanced venous disease. Special order, prescription required.
Styles available
Knee-high, thigh-high, pantyhose, and maternity in:
- Men's and women's styles
- Open-toe and closed-toe
- Sheer, opaque, athletic, and microfiber options
- Black, beige, white, navy, and several fashion colors
- Sizes from petite to extra-wide (custom fittings available for non-standard measurements)
Professional fitting
A poorly-sized compression stocking can do more harm than good — too tight cuts off circulation, too loose provides no benefit. We measure ankle, calf, thigh, and length so you get an accurate fit on the first try. Fitting takes about 15 minutes, ideally in the morning before swelling sets in.
Insurance & cost
Medical compression (20–30 mmHg and above) prescribed by a physician is often covered by extended health plans — Blue Cross, Manulife, Sun Life, Green Shield, Equitable, GreatWest Life, and most others. We direct-bill at the counter. Bring your prescription and insurance details for a no-surprise quote.
Frequently asked
Do I need a prescription for compression stockings?
For 15–20 mmHg (light/travel compression), no — you can walk in and buy them. For 20–30 mmHg and above, technically a prescription isn't always required to purchase, but insurance reimbursement usually requires one. We recommend getting one if you want coverage.
How long do compression stockings last?
Worn daily, expect 4–6 months of effective compression before the elasticity weakens. Two pairs rotated (one being worn, one being washed) extends each pair's life. We tell patients to replace at least every 6 months for medical-grade compression to ensure they're still doing their job.
Are they covered by OHIP?
OHIP does not cover compression stockings. However, most private extended health insurance plans cover medical compression (20-30 mmHg and up) with a physician's prescription. ADP (Assistive Devices Program) may cover compression garments for certain conditions like lymphedema — ask us about your eligibility.
Should I sleep in compression stockings?
Generally no — compression stockings are designed for upright daytime use, when gravity is pulling fluid down into the legs. When you're lying flat, the benefit largely disappears and the stockings can be uncomfortable. Exception: if your doctor specifically prescribed overnight wear (rare).
Will compression stockings help with leg fatigue from standing all day?
Yes — 15–20 mmHg "preventive" compression is well-suited for this. Nurses, teachers, retail workers, hairdressers, and warehouse staff often find them transformative. They keep blood from pooling in the legs and reduce that achy, heavy end-of-shift feeling.
Have a question?
Talk to one of our pharmacists — free, no appointment needed. We’re here Monday through Saturday.