Compression stockings are indicated for cases of venous diseases or blood circulation problems, as they serve to improve circulation and prevent the appearance of varicose veins.
There are different types of compression stockings available on the market, in which some only cover the feet and calf, others cover up to the thigh and others cover the entire leg and abdomen. In addition, they are sold with different levels of compression, so they should only be used under the recommendation of the doctor, nurse or physiotherapist.
How Compression Socks Work
The compression stockings when putting pressure on the legs help the blood to return from the feet to the heart, functioning as well as a kind of pump that acts against the force of gravity and helping the blood to return.
One of the most common problems that can be prevented with the use of compression stockings is varicose veins and swelling in the feet at the end of the day, which arise due to the effort that exists to pump blood to the heart. See more about treatment for poor circulation.
When to Use
These types of socks are indicated for cases where there are deficient valves or blocked veins that hinder the return of blood to the heart, being indicated in the following cases:
- Family history of varicose veins; Venous insufficiency; Family history of thrombosis. Learn how to identify thrombosis; Varicose veins or varicose veins: History of post-thrombotic syndrome; Feeling of heavy, painful or swollen legs; Need to stand for a long time during the day; Spend much of the day sitting. Understand why sitting too long is bad; Pregnant, due to physical changes that happen during the pregnancy period; Recovery periods after surgery, especially when recovery forces you to spend the day lying or sitting.
In addition, compression stockings can be indicated in simpler situations, such as long trips, as they can be used only to prevent the appearance of problems, such as thrombosis. In addition to the use of socks, it is very important to ensure hydration throughout the day and to move your arms and losses regularly, in order to facilitate blood circulation.
Watch the following video and see how to improve comfort while traveling, even if you suffer from swelling in your legs and feet:
When Not to Be Used
Despite all its benefits, compression stockings should only be used under medical advice, being contraindicated in the following situations:
- Ischemia; Uncontrolled heart failure; Infections or wounds on the legs or areas covered with the socks; Skin infections; Allergy to stocking materials.
In addition, although these socks are suitable for situations where it is necessary to spend a large part of the day sitting or lying down, they are not suitable for bedridden people who are unable to get out of bed, as they may end up increasing the risk of clots. Learn how to care for a bedridden person.
