What is Compression Therapy?
Medically prescribed graduated compression stockings apply pressure to the legs to support weakened veins and help them pump blood from the legs to the heart. The resulting increase of blood flow reduces swelling, fatigue, and pain, and helps prevent a more serious condition from developing.
The calf muscle is the main pump to get the blood back to your heart. Compression stockings keep the calf muscle contracted to increase venous blood flow. Compression stockings also put pressure on the tissue under the skin to keep tissue fluid from accumulating and causing swelling. Graduated compression stockings deliver the most pressure to the ankle and decreases pressure as the stocking goes up over the calf or thigh. Having an increased squeeze lower on the leg means more support for the ankle, which usually swells worst because of the effects of gravity.
At first, wearers may feel apprehensive about the tightness or difficulty of putting on the stockings. However, after an initial adjustment period, wearing the stockings feels refreshing and leg symptoms may improve. Prescribed, graduated compression stockings are more effective than support stockings because they are tailored to individual needs. Support hose are not the same as graduated compression stockings. Support hose have the same elasticity along the entire length and may actually be harmful.
Individuals are measured to ensure proper fit and maximum effectiveness and comfort. Also, compression stockings are prescribed according to specific compression levels, depending on the individual. Compression stockings should be worn every day, for up to 16 hours per day. Each pair lasts about six months, after which time a new pair usually is needed.