Do I Need Compression Socks?

A compression garment is a medical device that promotes better blood circulation, reduces swelling, and improves comfort levels following a medical procedure. Compression socks, stockings, or hosiery are types of compression garments used in the treatment of venous disease. By placing circumferential pressure on the legs, compression socks force blood to travel through the deep venous system. This results in reduced venous pressure and swelling in the legs, skin ankle, and relief from discomfort and pain. 

Compression socks are beneficial for patients with complications or conditions of the circulatory venous system. They help alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins and can be used along with sclerotherapy in the cosmetic improvement of spider and reticular veins. Moreover, they are incredibly easy to wear and require minimal directions for use. But, sometimes they’re just not enough.

Premier Vein Clinic provides comprehensive treatment plans for patients experiencing venous disease, leg cramping, heaviness, aching, swelling, and unsightly veins. Find solutions for circulation issues in the legs with board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. David Naar. Call his Westlake office at (440) 641-0433 or fill out an inquiry form online to book your appointment. 

Before and After Photos

About Compression Socks

Compression socks are snug-fitting garments made of interwoven elastic fabric that gently squeeze the foot, ankle and leg. As well as being useful for athletes and people flying long-distance, they are also an integral part of treatment for venous disease. They can improve circulation, reduce swelling, make you feel less dizzy when you stand up, and result in lower levels of pain and fatigue in the legs. 

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins in the legs occur when the internal valves that prevent blood from flowing backward in the vein stop working efficiently. This is known as venous reflux. As a result, blood pools; giving these structures their gnarled, twisted appearance. There are a number of uncomfortable varicose vein symptoms, which include the following.

  • Cramping
  • “Heavy” Legs
  • Aching Legs
  • Swelling (Edema)
  • Throbbing
  • Itching
  • Skin Discoloration
  • Ulceration (Open Sores)
  • Burning

Treating Venous Disease

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is unresolved venous reflux; a common symptom of which is the development of varicose veins. Compression socks are extremely effective at treating CVI and venous leg ulcers; chronic painful wounds or sores on the leg that do not heal due to lack of proper circulation.(1)(2) Through applying pressure to your blood vessels, compression socks improve the function of your circulatory system and support healing. The increased pressure increases the movement of your blood and makes it less likely to pool or clot, reducing the risk of further complications. 

Treatment with compression socks, sleeves, and other garments provides a plethora of documented benefits.  In one study, 84.2% of patients reported a decrease in swelling, and 89.4% reported a reduction in heaviness.(3)

Additionally, elastic compression stockings can result in a significant reduction in working venous volume (the amount of blood in circulation through your veins) when walking. This is important because when the calf muscles pump when walking, venous reflux occurs in those with venous insufficiency. That means that blood is traveling in the wrong direction, and many studies argue that evaluating the movement of blood during walking is the best indicator of venous insufficiency. (4)

Benefits of Compression Socks

  • Effectively manage varicose veins
  • Improve leg circulation
  • Reduce bruising and swelling
  • Improve ambulatory venous pressure
  • Facilitate wound healing
  • Prevent skin blemish and damage
  • Improve mobility
  • Straightforward to use
  • Improve overall quality of life

Compression stockings can be used initially as a standalone treatment for venous disease, but are often combined with minimally-invasive outpatient surgical measures. Dr. Naar will determine how best to integrate compression therapy into your treatment plan at your personal consultation.

Candidates

Compression socks are beneficial for patients with persistent leg pain, ulceration, and other uncomfortable symptoms from CVI. However, patients who have arterial insufficiency, heart problems and other serious health conditions should consult with Dr. Naar to make sure that compression treatment is suitable.

Personal Consultation

At your personal consultation in Westlake, you will have the opportunity to discuss treatment with Ohio’s leading vein specialist Dr. David Naar. Once you have filled out our intake forms, Dr. Naar will invite you to describe your symptoms, and any pain or mobility issues you are facing. He will perform an examination of your legs and work with you to address your issues with a tailored treatment plan. 

For relief from your vein troubles, contact us today to schedule a free personal consultation. You can reach our offices in Westlake, Ohio by calling (440) 641-0433.

Results of Compression Therapy

The success of compression therapy can vary depending on the type and severity of the issue. Some patients find relief from discomfort immediately after putting on the garment. And after a few days to one week of regular use, patients can find that swelling has been significantly improved. Reducing the appearance of varicose or spider veins, however, can take up to several weeks. Your medical compression socks will need to be replaced after approximately three to six months of use since, over time, the textiles lose their elasticity and cease to be effective for treatment. (6)

Corresponding & Complementary Procedures 

Compression medical grade socks can be utilized by themselves, or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan to reduce the symptoms caused by troublesome veins and provide relief from discomfort. Some issues can be solved with compression socks alone, however, more severe issues may require additional treatments such as ambulatory phlebectomy, endovenous ablation, and sclerotherapy. If your issues do not improve following compression therapy, further consultation with Dr. Naar may be necessary to find a treatment course to address the problem effectively. 

Cost of Compression Therapy in Westlake, OH

 The cost of compression therapy and related procedures to address venous disease varies, as every patient has unique needs. So, if varicose veins, spider veins, venous ulcers, and poor circulation in the legs are causing you discomfort, please reach out to Premier Vein Clinic by calling (440) 641-0433.

To find out more about the latest advances in vein medical treatment and procedures, follow the Premier Vein Clinic blog!

References

  1. Kecelj Leskovec N, Pavlović MD, Lunder T. A short review of diagnosis and compression therapy of chronic venous insufficiency. Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina, Pannonica, Et Adriatica. 2008;17(1):17-21. Accessed September 7, 2022. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18454265/
  2. Mosti G, Iabichella ML, Partsch H. Compression therapy in mixed ulcers increases venous output and arterial perfusion. Journal of Vascular Surgery. 2012;55(1):122-128. doi:10.1016/j.jvs.2011.07.071
  3. Centre (UK) NCG. Conservative Management. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE); 2013. Accessed September 7, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK328015/
  4. Ibegbuna V, Delis KT, Nicolaides AN, Aina O. Effect of elastic compression stockings on venous hemodynamics during walking. Journal of Vascular Surgery. 2003;37(2):420-425. doi:10.1067/mva.2003.104
  5. Berszakiewicz A, Sieroń A, Krasiński Z, Cholewka A, Stanek A. Compression therapy in venous diseases: current forms of compression materials and techniques. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology. 2020;37(6):836-841. doi:10.5114/ada.2019.86991
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