What exactly is support hose and why should one wear it?
Whether you are in your 20’s standing all day, an athlete or someone with venous disease, leg swelling can be painful and bothersome. The role of compression therapy is to slow the progression of varicose veins, help with symptoms of aching, heaviness and edema (swelling). They are also important to decrease the chance of getting blood clots and can help heal varicose ulcers.
We know that support hose – or graduated compression stockings – actually help the blood travel from the foot upwards. The pressure is greatest at the ankle, then reduces at the midcalf.
Standard recommendations are as follows:
less than 15 mm Hg – over the counter – is of minimal benefit , 15-20 mm Hg can be helpful in minor disease. Prescription grade stockings are from 20-30 and up. Usually this strength will suffice, but strengths up to 50 mm Hg are used for deep vein insufficiency and lymphedema.
The stockings should be comfortable, and now come in many attractive colors and some even have patterns.
Links: www.bauerfend.ca