What Are Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings are specialized socks designed to provide gentle, continuous pressure on your legs. This compression improves blood flow, reduces pain and swelling, and can prevent conditions like varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They are made in different lengths and tightness levels.
What are the Benefits of Compression Stockings?
When used correctly, compression stockings offer multiple benefits:
- Enhance blood circulation, ensuring oxygen-rich blood flows efficiently
- Minimize muscle strain during exercise, aiding quicker recovery
- Alleviate leg pain and discomfort
- Reduce swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles
- Reduce dizziness upon standing
- Support veins, helping to prevent or treat spider and varicose veins
- Prevent blood clots from prolonged sitting or standing
Should you get Compression Stockings?
You could benefit from compression stockings if you fall into any of these categories:
- Are at risk for circulation issues such as DVT, varicose veins, or diabetes
- Are recovering from surgery
- Are bedridden or have limited mobility
- Sit or stand for extended periods at work
- Play sports or exercise a lot
- Have lymphedema (fluid buildup usually drained by the lymphatic system)
- Are pregnant
- Are traveling on long flights or car rides
If you have diabetes or existing blood clots, consult your doctor before using compression stockings.
How to Select Compression Stockings
First, talk to a healthcare provider to determine your needs.
There are different levels of compression:
- Low Preventative Compression: Less than 20 mmHg, available over-the-counter at pharmacies.
- Medium Compression: 20-30 mmHg, suitable for managing swelling and pain from DVT or varicose veins. Any stocking above 20 mmHg require a prescription.
- Moderate to High Compression: 30-40 mmHg, recommended for severe pain or swelling.
- Firm Compression: 40-50 mmHg, used for severe vein issues, blood clots, or burn recovery.
Once you find the right pair of compression stockings, consider your insurance situation, as most insurance plans cover the cost of compression stockings with a doctor’s prescription
The Home Health specialists at your Sunshine Drugs can help you understand, purchase and get the most benefit out of Compression Stockings.
Written by: Nicole Lindsay
Home Health Care Manager
Sunshine Drugs Home Health-McIntyre-IDA