You may have heard that wearing compression stockings will help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with varicose veins. You may have even seen many of your favorite athletes wearing them, but have you ever wondered why wearing compression stockings helps?
Benefits of wearing compression stockings
Compression stockings can be worn to minimize the symptoms of varicose veins. Oftentimes wearing compression stockings regularly will alleviate some of the pain and swelling in your legs. The reason that compression stockings are so effective in helping with pain is because when worn regularly they can promote proper blood flow and circulation in the legs. They are able to compress the veins and help the valves to function properly, allowing blood to flow back to the heart without pooling in the legs. The myth that compression stockings will cause your blood to clot is completely false as they actually help to promote blood flow in your legs.
Who should wear compression stockings?
- Anyone with varicose veins
- Anyone with spider veins
- Anyone suffering from Chronic Venous Insufficiency
- Pregnant women
- People who fly often, or go through long periods of inactivity (standing or sitting)
When to wear compression stockings?
For optimal results it is recommended to wear your compression stockings daily. Stockings should be put on as soon as you wake up or after lying down for at least 20 minutes. The reason for this is because when laying down the valves in our legs are able to function properly and allow for blood to flow back to the heart effortlessly. However as soon as you stand up gravity begins pushing the blood back down, and without the compression stockings you risk the blood to begin to pool in your lower extremities ultimately causing varicose veins to appear. Making sure to wear your compression stockings as soon as you wake up helps to ensure that the valves in your legs function properly all day long.
Other things that you can do
If you are suffering from varicose veins, or you are experiencing symptoms such as: swollen legs, pain, heaviness in your legs, itching or cramping, we recommend for you to book a consultation with our specialist.
Ways to prevent the development of varicose veins include maintaining an active lifestyle. You can do this by: making sure to eat healthy, and to get regular exercise. Ultimately, the main contributor to the development of varicose veins is heredity, so if someone in your family has or had varicose veins it is important to take these steps to try and minimize the chance that you will develop them.
If you are interested in purchasing a pair of compression stockings, please do not hesitate to contact our clinic in order to make sure you find the proper size and fit for you!
Contact us!
At Canada Vein Clinics, we specialize in the treatment of varicose veins. We offer numerous treatments for this condition and help to find the best treatment for you. Book a consultation to find out more information! Give us a call today at 1-888-876-8346, or email us at askdoctor@canadaveinclinics.ca.
