Do Compression Stockings To Treat Varicose Veins Really Work?

Varicose veins are a problem for many people. For some they're just a cosmetic concern, leaving spidery blue streaks along the calves. For others though, varicose veins cause pain and swelling which can make anything from walking long distances to just standing for long periods of time extremely uncomfortable. Some people use compression stockings to treat this condition, but it's important to know how these stockings work before one decides to use them. Also, look at this compression stockings buyer's guide.

Compression Stockings by Sigvaris

How Compression Stockings Work

Compression socks or stockings are actually very simple medical devices. They slide onto the leg, covering from the ankle to the knee, typically. Within the stocking there is a pressure gradient, meaning that the stocking is very tight at the ankle, and it gets looser toward the knee. These stockings grip the leg, and provide support like a brace without the discomfort typically associated with braces. This support helps to remove the pressure the body puts on the legs and feet, which increases the blood flow and oxygen flow to muscle tissues, and cuts down on the possibility of blood clots forming in the legs.

Who Uses These Stockings?

These compression accessories are used by a variety of people with a slew of different conditions. While those with varicose or spider veins may use them to help relieve pressure and swelling, these stockings are also commonly used by diabetics. Anyone who suffers from problems with blood flow, swelling and pain in their legs can benefit from these stockings. However, they aren't used as a preventative measure either for conditions either, as they will get the body too used to additional support that it won't have on a day to day basis.

Do They Work?

Compression stockings do precisely what they say they will; they provide support to someone's legs to help reduce pain and swelling. They aren't a magical cure for any condition, nor will they put right what's gone wrong. What compression garmeants do is help someone deal with a negative situation, and they can help slow the progression of a condition so it doesn't get any worse than it already is. Just because someone has these stockings though, that's no reason for them not to pursue other forms of treatmeant to overcome their conditions. A good diet and exercise are solid blocks to use as a foundation, but depending on the condition someone is living with it might be necessary to take medication, or even to undergo surgery to fix things.