Compression socks
Compression socks are specifically designed for compression therapy. The socks apply pressure to the legs and ankles, promoting better blood circulation from the legs to the heart.
Compression stockings can also reduce pain and swelling in the legs and ankles, and are recommended for the prevention and treatment of varicose veins and other venous diseases.
There are different types of compression socks on the market, with different degrees of pressure and heights, with some covering the leg up to the knee, thigh or being able to cover the legs completely.
It is important that compression stockings are recommended by your doctor.
What is compression therapy?
Medical compression therapy consists of applying a type of elastic device, mainly to the limbs, to exert controlled pressure on them. By compressing the limbs or other regions of the body, the medical compression device works by decreasing the diameter of the veins, allowing the venous valves to close and function properly again , thus improving overall circulation and contributing to the return of blood flow to the heart.
Furthermore, it helps to reduce swelling and the formation of edema in edematous tissues, reducing capillary leakage in the tissue and contributing to the lymphatic drainage of interstitial fluid. Medical compression provides significant relief from leg pain, bloated sensations, and other venous and lymphatic symptoms.
The effects of medicinal compression
What level of compression should I use?
Compression socks are "graded" rather than "uniform" when talking about strength, and are tighter at the ankle than at the waist. Graduation helps push blood back to the heart, aiding circulation.
Socks with higher compression levels should be prescribed by doctors. The recipe will include the specific level of compression you need. By law, it is not necessary to present a prescription, but most orthopedic stores and pharmacies will not distribute products with high levels of compression without a prescription.
By "high compression level" we mean those that generally range from 20–30 mmHg to 30–40 mmHg; While these compression levels are generally safe for use, some individuals may be at risk of suffering due to contraindications, so a doctor's supervision is always recommended.
What health problems are various levels of compression used for?
8–15 mmHg
- Slightly sore and tired legs
- Support and comfort for standing or sitting for long periods
- When just a little support is needed for overall health and energy
15–20 mmHg
- A little extra support, offering daily relief for heavy, slightly swollen legs
- Extra support on busy, active days or while traveling
- An aid to improve circulation, especially in the legs
- During pregnancy, they can help prevent varicose veins and teleangiectasias
20–30 mmHg (Class II compression stockings)
- The compression level most commonly prescribed by doctors
- It can be used to help a variety of medical conditions, from mild to moderate.
- Used to help chronically painful and very tired legs
- Useful in treating varicose veins
- Relief of swelling associated with mild edema
- Used in combination with elective surgical procedures such as sclerotherapy and phlebectomy
- Used to help treat orthostatic/postural hypotension, which is a form of low blood pressure
30–40 mmHg (Class III compression stockings)
- Relief of moderate and severe edema and lymphedema
- Helps prevent and alleviate more serious cases of varicose veins
- Used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and post-thrombotic syndrome
- May Help Heal Active Venous Stasis Ulcers
- Used after bone fractures and orthopedic surgeries
- Used to treat phlebitis
- Used in the treatment of skin changes with healed ulceration
40–50 mmHg
- Used as part of treatment for chronic venous insufficiency
- Used in the most serious cases of DVT and post-thrombotic syndrome
- Used to treat severe skin changes with active ulceration
When should I consider wearing compression stockings or see a doctor for recommendations?
- Legs that are chronically swollen, sore, or tired
- Poor blood flow in the legs
- A known risk of clots, especially in the legs
- Family history of deep vein thrombosis
- Long periods of bed rest, after surgery, for example
- Varicose veins or venous ulcers on the legs
What existing health problems mean that compression socks are not right for me?
- Arterial insufficiency, intermittent claudication, ischemia
- Uncontrolled congestive heart failure (CHF)
- Acute dermatitis, purulent dermatosis, cutaneous sepsis
- Signs of leg infection
How do I measure my legs?
The main measurements for choosing the correct sock size are:
- Ankle circumference
- Calf circumference
- Foot height two fingers below the knee
- Thigh circumference
- Height from foot to gluteal region
How to take measurements
- Use a tape measure to measure
- Give preference to measuring barefoot and standing up
- Preferably take measurements in the morning
- Take measurements again with each new purchase
Source: Sigvaris.com