For compression therapy, stockings and socks are made. They gently press on your ankles and legs, encouraging blood flow to your heart.

Compression socks are also a great way to reduce swelling and pain in the legs and ankles.

Continue reading to find out about compression socks and their health benefits, as well as how to choose the right type of socks for you.

Compression socks

You may be prescribed for gaining benefit of compression socks by your doctor

· boost circulation in your legs

· support veins

· Prevent blood clots in your legs

· diminish leg swelling

· Reduce orthostatic hypotension which can cause lightheadedness or unsteadiness if you stand.

· Help prevent venous infections

· Prevent the development of deep-vein thrombosis on your legs

· Help reduce the pain from varicose veins

· reverse venous hypertension

· Improve lymphatic drainage

What is the purpose of compression socks?

Compression stockings can be used to apply pressure to your ankles and legs.

· By increasing blood flow volume and velocity, you can reduce the size of the major veins.

· Help blood flow upwards to the heart

· Help prevent blood from descending to the feet or laterally into superficial vessels.

Compression stockings

These are the three main types of compression stockings:

· Stockings with graduated compression

· Anti-embolism stockings

· Non-medical Support Hosiery

Stockings with graduated compression

Gradually decreasing compression stockings have a tendency to decrease towards the top. The compression strength is strongest at the ankle. They are designed to be mobile and meet medical requirements regarding length and strength.

Gradually graduated compression stockings require a professional fitting.

Stockings that reach just below the knee limit peripheral Edema or lower leg swelling caused by fluid buildup.

Stockings that reach the waist or thigh help to reduce blood pooling in the legs and prevent orthostatic hypotension.

Some suppliers offer personal preferences such as color and the option of an open- or close-toe.

Stockings to prevent embolism

Stockings that are anti-embolism reduce the likelihood of deep vein embolism.

They provide gradient compression, similar to graduated stockings. The compression level is different. Stockings that prevent embolism are made for people who are not mobile.

Hosiery for non-medical support

A prescription is not usually required for non-medical support hosiery. These include flight socks and elastic support hose that can be used to relieve tired or aching legs.

These stockings provide uniform compression and exert less pressure than prescription compression stockings.

Side effects from compression socks

Check your legs for any skin changes such as redness or irritation if your doctor has recommended compression stockings. These signs could be a sign of:

· your stockings don't fit properly

· You aren't properly putting on and taking off your stockings

· You have an infection

· You are allergic to the stocking material

It is important to have a prescription for compression stockings.

The takeaway

Compression stockings are worn on the ankles and legs to increase blood flow to the heart.

Remember to ask your doctor if compression stockings are prescribed to you for venous insufficiency.

· Get fitted properly

· Follow these instructions to properly put on and remove them

· Follow all instructions given by your doctor, including the time and length of wear.

Monitor any changes to the skin around the stockings.