Compression stockings are commonly worn by people with or at risk for circulation problems or diabetes. They are also utilized by those who have just had surgery and perhaps, can’t leave their beds. But that’s not all. Do you have a hard time moving your legs? Do you stand all day at work? Are you an athlete? Do you happen to be pregnant? Compression stockings can work wonders for you too!
As we highlighted in our last blog, compression stockings provide relief for a number of conditions. They include chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), varicose and spider veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and lymphedema. However, compression garments, which include socks, sleeves, gloves and stockings, offer more than just support for serious vascular conditions.
Let’s take a look at some other ways compression stockings work to ease your pain.
Muscle fatigue and soreness from physical activity.
Do you enjoy going for walks around your neighbourhood? Are you responsible for the majority of the housework in your household? Do you follow a fairly consistent workout routine? These are all reasons you may experience lingering muscle soreness and fatigue. This is especially the case if your muscles are deconditioned or weak.
To reduce muscle soreness after exercise, the Canadian Chiropractic Association recommends that you try longer warmups before your resistance training. “Take an Epsom salt bath,” their website also suggests, “Epsom salts are made from magnesium, which helps relax muscles and improve circulation…Remember to drink plenty of water and replenish your electrolytes with a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables. Leafy greens and bananas are two excellent options.”
Compression garments help with the soreness by improving blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the muscles. They promote quicker removal of lactic acid and reduce inflammation, easing post-activity soreness. Many people wear compression socks or sleeves during or after activity to reduce muscle vibration and speed up recovery. The garments are particularly helpful for seniors who are rebuilding strength after surgery or illness. They also help those with mild muscle atrophy.
Swelling from long periods of sitting or standing.
While it’s common knowledge that working out can create sore muscles, it is never recommended for anyone to live a sedentary lifestyle. Do you sit or stand for long periods of time? If so, swelling in the lower legs and feet should be a concern of yours. This is often the case for people who take road trips, work at cubicles are spend a lot of time on the couch.
MyHealth.Alberta.ca informs that swelling in the legs, ankles and feet is common after you sit or stand for a while. It’s a condition known as edema. “Long plane flights or car rides often cause swelling in the legs and feet,” notes the website, “You may also have swelling if you have to stand for long periods of time at your job. Problems with the veins in the legs (varicose veins) and changes in hormones can also cause swelling.”
Compression garments help by gently applying pressure to encourage upward blood flow. This prevents fluid from pooling in the extremities. It reduces swelling and provides a more energized, supported feeling in the legs and feet. Compression stockings are also helpful for caregivers who are on their feet all day and wheelchair users who may experience fluid retention.
Decreased joint stability from arthritis.
Do you have a mild case of arthritis? If so, joint instability can make walking or completing everyday tasks more challenging. In some cases, these common activities can be dangerous. For those suffering from decreased joint stability, it is recommended that they exercise.
“A common misconception is that a painful joint requires rest,” alerts Arthritis Society Canada, “However, not enough movement can cause muscle weakness, worsening joint pain and stiffness. Light or moderate physical activity protects joints by strengthening the muscles around them, increasing blood flow to the joint and helping promote normal joint regeneration. Physical activity can also improve your mood and lessen pain.”
Compression sleeves for knees, elbows or ankles can offer helpful stabilization. Compression braces and sleeves support joints by increasing proprioception. This is your body’s ability to sense its own position and movements. Compression garments can improve movement control and reduce the risk of further injury. They also help reduce mild inflammation around joints by encouraging lymphatic drainage. Compression is especially helpful for seniors with early-stage osteoarthritis and people recovering from minor sprains or joint strains.
Back discomfort from poor posture.
Back pain is one of the most common physical complaints among older adults and caregivers alike. Sitting or standing with poor posture over time can lead to chronic discomfort, particularly in the lower back and shoulders. A top way to improve poor posture and back discomfort is to learn how to sit properly.
“To improve your posture while sitting, make sure your feet are flat on the ground and your back is straight,” advises BC’s Chipperfield Mobile Physio & Wellness, “Adjust your chair’s height so your hips are level with your knees and your computer screen is at eye level. If you need extra support, use a lumbar pillow or a rolled-up towel to support your lower back.”
Compression shirts and back braces can gently encourage better posture by offering support to the spine and abdominal muscles. Some are designed to subtly realign the shoulders, reduce slouching and ease the strain on muscles that have to overcompensate. Compression garments are helpful for individuals with sedentary lifestyles, caregivers who lift or transfer clients and anyone with chronic back tension or posture concerns.
Take advantage of our Compression Sale!
Add some pep to your step with our latest promotion! Until August 7th at 4 p.m., when you buy two compression garments, you can get the third one free! Our stock of Juzo compression garments help with long flights, athletic performance and post surgical needs. This summer is a great time to stock up on diabetic socks and the best support stockings in the industry. Juzo has a full line of fashionable styles and colours to choose from in a variety sizes and compression levels.
We also have certified compression garment fitters with private consultation areas to help you find exactly what you need. To learn more about our Compression Sale, please don’t hesitate to give Advantage Home Health Solutions a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
