Put the sleeve on before you start walking or exercising. Sit down, roll the sleeve down into a ring, then slip your foot through and pull the fabric up over the ankle. Smooth out any wrinkles, especially around the heel and the front of the joint, so the compression is even. The top edge should sit comfortably below the calf muscle unless the product design says otherwise. If you fold the upper edge over itself, you create an extra ring of pressure, which can leave a mark.
Wear the sleeve inside a normal shoe; the open heel and toe leave room for the foot to move, so it should not feel like a boot. You can use a thin sock over or under it, depending on comfort, but make sure the sock does not bunch up inside. Check your skin once or twice during longer wear. If the area becomes itchy, very shiny, or the sleeve feels too tight, take it off and let the skin breathe.
For care, follow the label instructions on the product. With neoprene, a common approach is to hand wash in cold water with a mild soap, rinse well, and dry flat away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not use fabric softener or an iron — both can damage the neoprene. Make sure the sleeve is fully dry before storing it, and keep it in a dry place out of direct sunlight. If the fabric starts to lose its elasticity or forms cracks, replace it, because the compression and fit will no longer be consistent. Also examine the seam regularly; a torn seam can create uneven pressure and make the sleeve uncomfortable.
Do not use the sleeve on an open wound, and stop using it if you notice numbness, throbbing, or pressure marks. If you have poor circulation, diabetes, or a skin condition that affects the legs, ask a medical professional before using this product.