Medically accurate compression stockings push the dilated vein walls back into place and help them “pump” the blood throughout your body more efficiently. As a result, blood flow is increased, which reduces swelling, fatigue, pain, and the possible formation of blood clots in the leg.

By definition, compression therapy exerts pressure on the leg. Since the ankle is farthest from the heart, the pressure must be greatest there. The pressure provided by compression garments may feel unusual at first, but it is generally not unpleasant. Venous diseases are usually accompanied by pain and a tendency for leg swelling, so most patients find the feeling of compression garments on their legs to be a considerable relief, and preferable to their previously tired and painful legs. An added bonus is the fact that compression garments keep your legs feeling energized.

A compression garment must not be worn in the case of circulation disorders in leg arteries or those with serious heart conditions. Caution is also recommended in the case of sensory impairments due to diabetes and neuropathy (nerve damage). Your physician will advise you on the best approach for using compression with specific underlying conditions.

Depending on the type of disease, your doctor will prescribe different types of garments. There is a simple rule of thumb for selecting the right garments: the more severe the damage to the venous system and the softer the leg tissue, the thicker and firmer the garments must be. From transparent, highly elastic stockings in a wide range of fashionable colors, to strong, opaque, seamed stockings, there are many versatile options available.

Depending on the location of the damage to the veins and how far it has progressed, different lengths of compression garments are used. The assortment ranges from knee length and thigh-length to pantyhose. There are also special models for men and pregnant women.

Each and every day! Your compression is absolutely indispensable if you stand or sit for long periods. If you wear your garment when you do your daily exercises or go for a walk, it promotes the development of muscle, as your muscles have to make an additional effort to overcome the external pressure. When you’re traveling, whether by car or plane, the garments help prevent the blood clots that can even happen to people with healthy veins when they are on the road.

Put your compression on in the morning as soon as you wake up or get out of the shower, when your legs are not yet swollen. Wash your garments in the evening. The fabric collects flakes of skin, sweat, the remains of skin cream, etc., which may damage the threads and cause the fabric to lose its elasticity. Most compression garments are machine washable and suitable for tumble drying to ensure that they are easy to care for, but you should always refer to your garment’s specific care instructions.