A common treatment that many vascular experts offer their patients is the wearing of compression stockings or socks. These consist of socks that fit tightly around the legs. The amount of time you will need to wear these socks will vary depending on your unique medical scenario.
You may wonder why footwear can impact the health of your veins, but these socks can offer many advantages to your circulatory system. Read on to learn about three reasons your doctor may ask you to wear compression stockings.
3 Health Benefits from Compression Stockings
Relieve Uncomfortable Symptoms
Vascular doctors will often offer compression socks to their patients who have varicose veins. This vein disease forms bulging, highly visible veins, usually in the legs.
It occurs when a valve in the vein malfunctions creating a backflow. The blood collects in this part of the vein, causing it to swell and feel uncomfortable.
Many people dislike the feeling and the look of varicose veins. Compression stockings can treat this issue because the pressure from the tight fit of the socks stops the veins’ capability to swell or leak. The blood is encouraged to flow without congestion.
Patients will see the veins fade, along with swelling and pain or tenderness. Consult with your vascular doctor to learn how often you should wear these socks to find relief from your varicose veins symptoms.
Improve Blood Circulation
As mentioned, compression socks can relieve symptoms of varicose veins and other vein diseases. This occurs because the tightness of the stockings makes the blood flow with more ease and creates a lower chance of leaking or pooling within the veins.
Patients with circulation issues in the legs outside of these vein disorders can therefore also benefit from wearing these types of socks. Doctors ask patients with concerns about their blood flow to move their legs frequently. However, physical activity is not always possible for every patient.
Those with restricted movement and weak circulation can see improved vascular health when they wear compression stockings. Your doctor can check your unique vein concerns and provide treatment during a consultation.
Prevent Blood Clots
Blood flow improvement from wearing tight compression socks can help patients prevent blood clots from forming in their legs. As blood moves more efficiently through the veins, the chances of blood collecting to form a blockage decrease.
Patients often suggest wearing these stockings for patients who have just had a surgery that puts them on bedrest. Inactivity can negatively impact blood flow, so these socks can counter this factor and protect your circulatory system health.
This treatment also helps patients with clotting issues lower their risk of deep vein thrombosis. Clots in the legs can cause severe medical emergencies if they travel through the bloodstream toward other organs. Ask your doctor for a vein health evaluation if you are concerned you may have a blood clot.