Many people wear compression stockings for comfort. However, they are also worn to help prevent serious medical conditions. Compression stockings improve blood flow, lessen pain and swelling in your legs and can lower your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Athletes also wear compression stockings to increase circulation and blood flow in their legs. Could compression stockings be right for you?
Here are four signs you may need to start wearing compression stockings:
1. You have varicose veins.
Varicose veins are caused by swollen or enlarged veins due to improper blood flow. According to Red Deer’s Aurora Medical Laser & Vein Centre, the upcoming summer won’t be doing us any favours in regard to avoiding these unsightly veins. “When the weather is warm, those who suffer from this condition may notice that their legs feel heavy or full,” reads their website, “There may also be swelling, especially in the ankles, and some cramping.”
Compression stockings are known to help keep varicose veins at bay. They work by applying pressure that promotes the upward flow of blood back to the heart instead of having it pool in the leg veins.
2. You sit or stand for long periods of time.
Are you still suffering from the COVID blues? We can’t say we blame you. For more than a year, the majority of us have been cooped up at home most of the time. Not being very active isn’t exactly good for your overall health. It’s also not helpful in the fight against tired and achy legs.
When you sit or stand in the same position for lengthy periods of time, you put pressure on your legs that can result in aches and pains. Compression stockings help to alleviate such discomfort.
3. You are diabetic.
As reported by Birgitta I. Rice on DiabetesSelfManagement.com, “many people with diabetes experience discomfort in their legs and feet, with symptoms such as cramping, numbness, tingling, and pain. The culprits may be poor circulation, nerve damage, or both, and the underlying causes are referred to as peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and peripheral neuropathy.”
For diabetics, compression stockings are helpful as they promote healthy circulation and prevention of blood pooling in the legs and feet.
4. You’re expecting.
Congratulations! Undoubtedly, you’re experiencing one of the most wonderful times in your life. However, your journey towards parenthood comes with a few ups and downs. Among the downs is the pressure on your circulatory system. As your baby grows in the womb, more pressure will be placed on the veins in your lower body. With the help of compression stockings, you can relieve yourself of some of the pressure. They will also help to prevent cramps and leg pain.
Is it time you get fitted for some compression stockings? At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we have certified fitters to help you choose the best compression solution to help you live better and healthier. Contact us and we’ll arrange a time to meet with you. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
