Compression Stockings
Compression stockings help relieve symptoms and slow the progress of varicose veins. They improve circulation and are a mainstay of treatment for varicose veins that are causing symptoms. (Mild varicose veins that are not causing symptoms don’t need treatment.) Doctors often recommend that you wear the stockings during the day to help relieve symptoms. See a picture of how to put on compression stockings. Not everyone with varicose veins needs compression stockings.
- For very mild symptoms, you may want to start out using regular support panty hose, knee-highs, or knee socks (which end just above the calf, below the knee). You may find that these help swelling and aching considerably. They are also less expensive than the special compression stockings a doctor prescribes and are available at most department stores.
- You can also buy compression stockings from pharmacies or department stores that are used to treat leg swelling. They are made of lighter-weight elastic, and the pressure created is even all the way up the leg. (It is best if pressure decreases as the stocking moves up your leg; this is called graduated compression.) As a result, thigh-high stockings of this type may not be a good choice. Without garters, they slip down and bunch up and can worsen varicose vein problems.
- Avoid elastic bandages for varicose veins unless your doctor specifically suggests them. They can cut off blood flow and may make varicose veins worse. (If this type of bandage is recommended, ask how to wrap it.)
For more serious symptoms, you may want to buy special compression stockings from a medical supply store (with a doctor’s prescription), where you can be fitted for them. These stockings are tighter at the feet and get looser as they go up (graduated compression).
- Prescription compression stockings may cost between $60 and $100 a pair. A pair usually needs to be replaced after 4 to 6 months of regular use. (Compression stockings are available as panty hose but are more expensive.)
- If you have serious varicose vein symptoms and are considering these, be sure not to buy stockings that are too tight and uncomfortable, or you may not wear them.
Put your compression stockings on first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. If you wait, your legs and feet may swell.
Compression stockings have disadvantages.
- They are hot and can be uncomfortable when worn all day.
- They are expensive.
- They may be difficult for older adults, overweight people, and those with arthritis to put on.
Consider the discomfort and inconvenience of compression stockings compared with the chance that they may help keep your problem from getting worse and may help you avoid surgery.
FAQs
1How often should I replace my garment?
With normal daily wear and care, we recommend replacing your garment every six months. Should your garment show signs of excessive wear or fit looser or tighter than when you originally purchased it, we recommend consulting with your fitter about being re-measured or replacing your garment sooner
2Can I use creams and lotions with your garments?
It’s perfectly safe to use lotions and creams with compression garments because all our garments are Latex Free. This is especially important for people with lymphedema since daily skin care and moisturizer is so important. Lotions and ointments breakdown garments made out of natural rubber.
3Can I wear compression garment at night?
The quick answer is no, elastic garments are not normally worn at night while sleeping because they might bunch up and cause a tourniquet. However, you should consult your physician and follow their recommendations.
4Are Compression therapy garments comfortable?
Compression stockings compliment your legs naturally and beautifully. In fact, our Exclusive FiberSoft™ technology adds softness and comfort, leaving your legs feeling energized all day long!
5Will dying my garments damage them?
Yes, dying your compression stockings might possibly damage the compression thread and change the amount of compression in your garment.
We would recommend trying our fashion colors and print options in our Juzo Signature line.
6What is the difference between anti-embolism and graduated compression?
Anti-Embolism Stockings: Also known as TEDS®. These stockings are intended for non-ambulatory patients or those confined to a bed or wheelchair. It is common in recovery rooms and post surgery for physicians to prescribe these stockings for patients to prevent coagulation (thrombosis) and stimulate blood flow. They are white and a thicker knit with an opening at the toes. Anti-embolism stockings have a universal compression throughout ranging from 8-18mmHg.
Graduated Compression Stockings: These stockings are medically therapeutic and designed for people who are mobile. They work with a graduated effect, providing 100% compression at the most distal point, being the ankle and decreasing up the leg. The compression is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Graduated compression stockings are manufactured in compression ranges: 12-20mmHg, 20-30mmHg, 30-40mmHg, 40-50mmHg, and 50+mmHg.
Graduated compression stockings coincide with specific medical indications. Stockings below 20mmHg are available over-the-counter (OTC) and compression levels above 20mmHg require a medical prescription.