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Compression therapy refers to the benefits gained from the use of specialized stockings or bandages in the management of chronic venous disease and lymphedema. Individuals suffering from chronic venous disease (often called insufficiency) present symptoms of leg complaints of fatigue, heaviness, and aching.
Gradient Elastic Stockings
Gradient elastic stockings are the standard in the management of chronic venous disease. Gradient compression delivers a squeezing to the leg that is tightest at the ankle. The amount of squeezing or compression gradually decreases up the leg. While the exact mechanism of action of compression remains elusive, compression is believed to provide two primary benefits to individuals suffering from chronic venous insufficiency.
Perhaps the most important effect is that compression increases the pressure in the tissue under the skin thereby helping to reduce and prevent swelling. The compression of this subcutaneous tissue helps move excess fluid back into the capillaries and helps prevent too much fluid from leaking out of these little vessels.
Secondly, compression reduces the ability of the superficial veins in the leg to expand and overfill with blood. This in turn helps prevent blood in these veins from flowing backward causing congestion. Congestion in the leg accounts for the leg complaints, swelling, and skin changes common in persons with venous problems.
Anyone's legs can feel better while wearing gradient compression stockings, especially those of us who spend too much time in sedentary sitting or standing positions. Gradient compression stockings are of most benefit to individuals with the following leg complaints.
Warning:
* It is recommended that you consult with your physician before wearing compression 20 mmHg and above. If you also have arterial circulation problems in your legs please consult with your physician before wearing any level of compression.
* The wearing time for gradient compression stockings is dependent on both the reason for wearing the compression (indication) and the amount of compression (mmHg). An individual's physician or designee best guides this.
* Individuals with lymphedema are advised to follow the wearing schedule recommended by their physician or therapist.