Although there are many surgical options available to treat varicose veins, stockings, most often, are the first line of treatment for varicose veins. In layman’s language, stockings are stretchy socks that compress the legs more strongly and tightly than our regular tall socks.
Wide variety of options are available in stockings. From simple stockings to specialized compression stockings, there are many options available for the sufferers. In simple stockings, we have simple support hose available, which pretty much looks like black tights. Support hose does a fabulous job in preventing blood from pooling. Simple stockings have their own share of benefits, but vein experts usually recommend compressed stockings for treating varicose veins.
How do Compression Stockings Help?
Firstly, know that these stockings play a pivotal role in providing you relief from any pain and swelling that you may have had due to varicose veins.
As the name suggests, ‘compression stockings’, it is implied that the stockings will put pressure to something, and in this case, it is your veins. Moreover, compression stockings by their nature will be tight as they are designed to reduce the amount of overall pressure and blood in the veins. But, of course, the degree of pressure applied to these veins should be decided by a qualified health care professional.
Compression stockings are manufactured to have ‘graduated compression’, which means the wearer will intentionally feel the tightest at the ankles as the compression there is the highest. And, as you move up the leg, the tightness of the stockings gradually decreases, and this is why the wearer will feel tightness in the ankle and calf area but not so much in the thighs.
Pros and Cons of Compression Stockings
Pros
- Prevents new varicose veins to develop
- Gives immense varicose veins relief
- Provides muscle support
- Gives legs a beautiful appearance
- Helps in relieving pain and discomfort of varicose veins
Cons
- Compression Stockings are expensive
- They are hard to wear, especially for the elderlies
- Limited styles and color options available
- You may experience friction in the foot area
- Skin rashes are likely
In addition to Compression Stockings!
In order to get rid of varicose veins, you need to reduce the pressure on the veins. Of course, compression stockings do a fantastic job in reducing the pressure, but there are plenty of other ways too that can alleviate the pain related to varicose veins. For instance, regular exercising is one of the best ways to lower inflammation and increase blood flow. Moreover, massaging with essential oils can also relief. And, finally, you can incorporate Venorex Vein Defense Cream in your routine to reduce the appearance of varicose veins.
Tips on Selecting the Right Compression Stocking
Like all products, there are a few effective tips to help you make the right purchase of compression stocking. In pharmacy and medical stores, you will come across many different types of compression stockings, which makes it even harder for buyers to purchase the right stockings for them.
Below mentioned are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
- Check the compression level
Generally, the compression level is divided into three segments:
a. 10-15mmHg (for light support)
– Helps in improving circulation
– Prevents swellingb. 15-20mmHg (for mild support)
– Mild swelling in pregnancy
– Improves circulationc. 20-30mmHg (for moderate support)
– Mild to Moderate swelling in pregnancy
– Improves circulationd. 30-40mmHg (for firm support)
– Moderate swelling in pregnancy
– Improves circulation - Know the length of the stockings
There are two types of lengths available: knee length and thigh length. In most cases of varicose veins, thigh length is recommended. - Proper sizing and fitting
If you are a first time wearer then choosing a proper size and fit can be baffling. But, thankfully, all manufacturers of compression stockings have their respective sizing charts that will help the buyer in deciding the appropriate compression stocking. Besides, the manufacturers even provide useful instructions to help you determine the right fit for you.
It is indeed a good idea to schedule an appointment at a local pharmacy store and get your measures for compression stockings checked. Make sure you try to get an appointment in the morning and get your legs properly checked before they start to swell.
Final thoughts
The process of wearing compression stockings isn’t very attractive. Particularly those individuals who are new to wearing these stockings will find the process very daunting; however, you do get used to it, slowly and gradually.