About Compression Stockings

Do you need compression stockings? These elastic stockings keep blood from pooling in the legs and reduce leg swelling and edema often found in people with varicose veins. They are often used as a part of varicose vein treatment.

Graduated medical stockings and compression stocking aids also help people at risk for the health conditions deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism by preventing swelling and blood clots.

Many people have trouble wearing compression stockings. A study published in the September 2008 issue of the American Journal of Nursing found that 29% of patients wore the wrong size  stockings and used them incorrectly. One in five patients didn’t even know why their doctors told them to wear compression stockings, the study found.

Without the right knowledge, you may find them:

• uncomfortable
• ill-fitting
• difficult to use
• hard to care for

But many studies have found that using compression stockings promotes blood flow and reduces the risk of venous thrombosis, a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein. Using compression garments, on their own or with external compression devices or medications, can significantly reduce a person’s risk of complications after surgery, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.

Some popular brands of compression socks that your doctor or physical therapist may have mentioned include :

• Sigvaris
• Mediven
• Juzo
• Jobst

Please browse around this site to learn more about compression stockings, varicose vein treatment, compression stocking purchase, and compression stocking care.  We want you to get the most health benefits possible from your compression hosiery.

We update this site regularly to include the newest info, so check back regularly!