Compression stockings (also known as compression socks) are designed to apply gentle pressure to your legs and ankles. This is called compression therapy. The objective of this type of therapy is to promote blood flow from the legs to the heart. There are many different types of compression stockings and they provide a wide variety of benefits.
Compression stockings are used to reduce pain and swelling in the ankles and legs.
A doctor may prescribe compression stockings if a patient experiences swelling in his or her ankles and legs. They also help to prevent venous ulcers and the development of deep vein thrombosis in the legs. As well, compression stockings are used to reverse venous hypertension, improve lymphatic drainage and reduce orthostatic hypotension.
“Orthostatic hypotension is a condition in which your blood quickly drops when you stand up from a sitting or lying position,” explains The Cleveland Clinic, “This low blood pressure (also called postural hypotension) can make you feel dizzy or faint. Symptoms usually improve by changing your medications or how you move into an upright position.”
Compression stockings can be also used to diminish varicose veins.
By preventing the pooling of blood in the legs, compression stockings help to reduce the appearance of varicose and spider veins. Compression stockings reduce the diameter of major veins by increasing the volume and velocity of blood flow in the legs and ankles. They also help prevent blood from refluxing downward to the foot or laterally into superficial veins.
“Compression leggings’ tension pushes the blood up from the ankle (the greatest pressure point), and redistributes it more evenly up the leg,” explains Sara Cann of Men’s Health, “If you don’t need prescription-grade strength, aim for hose with 10 to 30 millimetres of mercury (measurement of pressure).”
Compression stockings are not designed for the elderly alone.
They are also not exclusive to women. Just about anyone who is at risk of blood circulation problems like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or diabetes can benefit from wearing compression stockings. In many cases, patients who have just finished surgery are put in these stockings. This is especially true if they are bedridden or have hard times moving their legs.
Do you spend the majority of the day on your feet? If so, you risk putting excess pressure on your legs and therefore, can benefit from wearing compression stockings. Pregnant women are also known for enjoying the benefits of these stockings.
Compression stockings work wonders for athletes.
Even those who are regularly active and physical fit find compression stockings to work wonders. Athletes find that, during activity, compression stockings promote better blood flow. This helps to get more oxygen to their muscles. The support helps to prevent tissue damage. Following physical activity, the beefed-up blood and lymph circulation helps muscles to recover quickly. This leads to less soreness and cramping.
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!
