Medically prescribed compression stockings are a conservative treatment for many vascular problems and they can also be recommended to wear after vein surgery, during recovery. Compression stockings help leg vein disease by applying graduated pressure to help blood flow through leg veins, back up toward the heart, as it should. In essence, compression socks help fight gravity and aid the leg muscles in pushing deoxygenated blood back to the heart. The pressure provided by the stockings can also help valves within the veins to work properly so that they don’t allow blood to leak back downward. Compression stockings can help avoid or slow the development of varicose veins and spider veins in the legs, as well as control symptoms of venous insufficiency.
Vein treatment often involves a combination of methods to eliminate current problems, help prevent future recurrence, decrease disease progression, and help maintain good vein health. Compression stockings can help to treat venous insufficiency but are typically combined with other vein care methods. Stockings can decrease some symptoms of venous diseases, such as fatigued, aching and swollen legs, but they cannot cure the condition of venous insufficiency.
To be effective, stockings must be of the right compression pressure and strength to suit your specific condition and body size (leg length and girth at various points such as the calf, ankle, etc.) If you buy so-called compression socks in a normal retail shop or online, you can’t be certain if you’re receiving the proper stocking for you. Well-made, prescription socks provide the most pressure at the ankle and pressure is gradually decreased as the sock reaches the calf and higher. If you require a lower amount of compression, for mild venous insufficiency, you may find good stockings at a pharmacy or medical supply shop. Patients with jobs that keep them on their feet, and those with more serious vein problems, should get custom-measured and prescribed socks.
If you have varicose veins, swollen ankles, leg pain or other signs of venous insufficiency, contact Bellamah Vein Center online, or call us at 406-203-1866 today.
