Compression Stockings: What Do They Do? by Meredi Wagner-Hoehn

Do you have circulation issues in your legs? Or maybe you’ve begun to notice a frustrating presence of varicose veins. Either way, compression stockings can help.

Types of Compression Stockings

Compression stockings, or compression socks, encourage blood flow in the body by increasing blood flow in the legs. One type is called gradient compression stockings. These, just like most compression stockings, work by being tighter at the ankle and slowly losing pressure as they climb up the leg. Gradient compression stockings specifically serve people who are active, as well as diabetics. They help patients to resist blood clots, blood pooling and swelling during those stagnant moments.

Anti-embolism compression stockings, also known as TED hose, help the legs’ venous and lymphatic systems. Although anti-embolism compression socks also apply pressure in a gradient manner, from tightest to loosest, bottom to top, they assist immobile customers in maintaining blood flow.

Any compression stocking is available in a variety of pressures, based on the prescription you get from your phlebologist (a medical professional specializing in veins).

Patients Who Benefit from Compression Stockings

Athletes. Certain sports may warrant compression socks. The coach will discuss the viability of compression stockings prior to any game time.

Diabetics. As diabetics can sometimes suffer from sluggish blood flow, compression socks come in particularly useful in alleviating heaviness, swelling and tiredness in the legs.

Pregnant Women. Varicose veins and general blood flow side effects may occur during pregnancy due to the increase in blood production. At this time, compression socks may help to keep a permanent vein issue from developing.

Non-Ambulatory Professionals. If your profession keeps you from moving around much, compression socks can keep you from suffering the negative side effects.

People Who Suffer from Spider & Varicose Veins. With mild spider or varicose veins, compression stockings can be enough to reduce or erase the veins’ symptoms or appearance.

People with Edema. Edema, or swelling, can be reduced simply by maintaining appropriate circulation.

Post-Sclerotherapy Patients. After sclerotherapy or other vein treatments, your Austin vein specialist may request you wear compression stockings to help your legs function as they regain their abilities.

To discover if you need compression stockings and a get a prescription for the pressure appropriate for your vein condition, call Zimmet Vein & Dermatology today.