Compression stockings are designed to increase blood flow in your legs. There are several different types of these elastic stockings, anti-embolism and gradient compression stockings. Compression stockings are designed to help treat and prevent varicose veins, edema and many other vein problems. Being knowledgable about compression stockings before their use is important to using them properly and preventing illness. Knowing what they are used for, how to use them and when to avoid them is important.
Those who have recently undergone surgery are often prescribed compression stockings to help prevent blood clots. Pregnancy can also cause vein problems due to decreased blood flow. This is because of the hormones and pressure placed on the body by the weight of the uterus. Compression stockings can help with these problems. Compression stockings help the veins do their job by gently applying pressure to the leg, pushing the blood up the leg. This helps prevent pooling of the blood in the legs and feet and keeps oxygen and nutrients flowing properly throughout the body.
Another feature of compression stockings is gradient pressure. This means that the stockings provide pressure to the legs in different strengths across the stocking. The stockings are tightest at the level of the foot and ankle and create less pressure as they move up the leg. This helps the stocking effectively push blood up the leg from the foot. Doctors usually prescribe these stockings for their patients, however, over-the-counter stockings are also available. The over-the-counter variety are sometimes less effective, as they offer lower amounts of compression strength. Stockings are now available in several colors and do not look different than ordinary stockings. Therefore they can be worn without anyone noticing they are anything other than ordinary stockings.
Many health care professionals feel that anyone prone to blood clots or confined to a stationary or cramped position for long periods of time could benefit from wearing compression stockings. This includes long car rides and all air travel. Those who travel for long periods of time are prone to getting a deep vein thrombosis can affect the heart and lungs and cause serious health problems.
It is always necessary to get the approval of your health care professional before wearing compressing stockings. There are several conditions that make wearing these stockings controversial. Those with hearth failure, and some advanced peripheral neuropathy should not wear compression stockings. They should always be properly fitted to make sure that they preform properly.
This article was written by the online leader in compression stockings, CompressionStocking.co. Since its founding in 2011, CompressionStocking.co has been offering a full line of compression stockings.
