What are Compression Stockings and How are they Used?

Compression stockings (also known as medical stockings) are used to treat problems with blood and fluid circulation in the leg.  Compression treatment is simple, relatively painless, and helps to decrease or eliminate the need for drug or surgical treatment of sluggish circulation.

Circulation problems are frequently a symptom of a larger disease or disorder rather than a disorder in and of itself (i.e. diabetes.)  When poor circulation is an issue, the extremities such as the feet and hands suffer the most damage, particularly the feet.  The reason is that these parts of the body are the furthest from the heart.  The circulatory system must work very hard to get oxygenated blood all the way from the heart to the feet, and then return that blood back to the heart for re-oxidization.  It is particularly difficult for blood from the feet to return to the heart via the veins, since blood going in this direction has the added disadvantage of fighting against the pull of gravity.

At the same time, fluid may build up in the lymphatic vessels of the legs and feet.  Fluid is pulled downward through the force of gravity, and then collects and pools there.  This condition is known as edema or lymphedema.  Lymphedema puts the sufferer at a high risk for developing infections in the affected limb/extremity.  In rarer circumstances, lymphedema can lead to skin ulcers, limb deformity and even cancer.

Fortunately, both blood and lymph circulation problems are easily treated through the use of medical compression stockings.  In fact, when these conditions are detected in their early stages, the use of medical stockings may be the only course of treatment that is necessary to reverse the problem.

Compression stockings are sometimes referred to as "graduated compression stockings."  This is because they are constructed in such a manner that the amount of compression is greatest at the ankle.  The degree of compression gradually decreases from the ankle upwards to just below the knee.

Graduated compression accomplishes two things.  First, it helps stave off the pooling effect to begin with.  Second, it helps move blood and fluids upwards from the ankle and back to the heart.  Combined with the force of pumping action in the calves, it essentially works like a machine against the force of gravity.

Medical compression stockings are sold in various levels of compression.  These levels are measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury.)  They may be purchased in styles that range from 10-15 mmHg up to 50 plus mmHg.  Only 10-15 and 15-20 mmHg stockings may be purchased over the counter.  Higher pressure styles can only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.  Using medical stockings that apply too much pressure can cause damage to the limbs.  Therefore, it's critical to be examined by a doctor who can determine the correct amount of pressure that is needed.

Many people think of compression stockings as unattractive and overly feminine.  While old fashioned varieties may have fit that description, today's technology has improved their aesthetic appearance dramatically.  Medical stockings can be purchased in a range of colors, opacities and styles, rendering them very hard to tell from ordinary socks/stockings.  This makes treatment much easier for the wearer.