Are Compression Stockings The Right Choice For You?

Compression stockings are worn primarily to ease and increase blood circulation from the feet to the heart. The stockings are designed to gently massage the ankles and help the flow of blood up the leg while decreasing the pressure build-up in the veins. As the blood circulation increases it helps the feet and legs to feel less tired and heavy effectively reducing leg and ankle pain, swelling or edema and general discomfort. Compression stockings also tend to lessen the build-up of fluids in the legs.

People who are prone to having blood pooling, edema and blood clots are recommended by doctors to use gradient compression stockings. These stockings are woven carefully to lessen the level of compression towards the top. Diabetics with excessive leg swelling and those who are inactive for prolonged periods can also benefit from these stockings. Anti-embolism compression stockings are another type of hose used to support both lymphatic and venous systems of the leg. Here the compression is distributed evenly throughout the leg and aids the circulation of blood and lymph fluids in conjunction with the pump effect of the calf muscle.

Compression stockings or support hosiery as they are commonly known are also widely used in the field of sports. These stockings help to improve circulation, remove lactic acid and stabilize muscles. Support hosiery designed for both men and women are available and are the medically accepted way to relieve leg pain, swelling, deep vein thrombosis, venous insufficiency and varicose veins. Pregnant women also wear compression stockings in order to relive swelling and pain in the legs. Modern support hosiery is similar in appearance to regular stockings and is available in diverse colors, sizes and styles. Adequate support to the legs ensures that vein problems are kept at bay avoiding permanent damage to the veins. In addition, they also help to prevent more serious damage to the veins that such as leg ulcers and blood clots.