Venous leg ulceration is a common problem in older people that adversely affects their quality of life. It is also a major cause of morbidity for many patients in hospital and community settings. Patients experience considerable pain and distress as a result of this condition and annual costs to the NHS are high. However, good nursing management and the correct use of compression therapy can lead to faster healing rates (Effective Health Care 1997), and reduced nursing time. This article discusses the use of compression hosiery in the prevention and treatment of venous leg ulcers.