Swollen, aching or heavy legs are easy to dismiss, especially if you spend much of your day sitting, standing or travelling. But these symptoms can sometimes point to bigger problems with how blood or lymph fluid moves through the body. Compression therapy can be an important part of managing these problems. By applying controlled pressure to a limb, compression garments can support circulation, reduce fluid buildup and help manage symptoms. The right compression, however, depends on the person, their condition and their measurements.
How Do Compression Socks Work?
Compression socks and stockings work by applying graduated pressure, with the greatest pressure usually around the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg. This helps support the veins and encourages blood to move back toward the heart. Movement of the calf muscles works together with this external pressure to improve venous return.
Compression may be recommended as part of managing:
- Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): When damaged or weakened veins have difficulty returning blood to the heart, compression can help!
- Varicose veins: Compression can help manage aching, heaviness and swelling associated with enlarged veins.
- Venous edema and leg ulcers: Compression can help control swelling and support the management of venous ulcers.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Compression may be used as part of care plan for managing following a DVT or for managing post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).
- Lymphedema: Compression helps control fluid buildup and is commonly used during the maintenance phase of lymphedema management.
- Lipedema: Compression can reduce swelling and discomfort associated with this chronic condition.
- Orthostatic or postural hypotension: Compression minimizes blood pooling in the legs, counteracting low blood pressure when standing.
- Pregnancy-related swelling and venous problems: Compression can provide support and minimize leg swelling or varicose veins.
- Travel and prolonged sitting: Compression can support circulation during long periods of reduced movement and may be used for thrombosis prevention in appropriate individuals.
What Can a Compression Fitter Do?
Investing in compression stockings entails more than simply picking a tight pair of socks. A Certified Compression Fitter can help:
- Take accurate measurements of the limb, including circumference and length.
- Determine the appropriate garment style, length and compression level based on the treatment plan.
- Help distinguish between everyday support socks and medical compression garments.
- Recommend options such as knee-high stockings, thigh-high stockings, sleeves, chaps, adjustable compression wraps, and custom-made garments.
- Help with donning and doffing techniques when compression is difficult to put on.
- Assess fit and identify problems such as bunching, rolling, slipping or excessive pressure.
- Work alongside physicians, nurses, therapists and other healthcare professionals when more complex swelling or circulation problems are involved.
For lymphedema and significant edema, specialized garments may be needed. For example, custom-made flat-knit garments or adjustable compression systems can provide a more individualized fit and level of containment.
Preventing Compression Problems Before They Start
Good compression therapy is also about consistency and prevention:
- Have your concerns properly assessed before choosing stronger compression.
- Put compression on early in the day, when swelling is usually lower.
- Make sure the garment fits correctly and does not create folds or pressure points.
- Keep the skin clean and moisturized, while avoiding lotion immediately before application.
- Replace worn-out garments when their compression has weakened.
- Stay active and avoid sitting or standing in one position for long periods when possible.
- Follow the wearing schedule recommended for your condition.
- Have the fit and level of your compression reassessed if you experience new or worsening pain.
- Discuss with your primary care provider sudden swelling, particularly if accompanied by pain or warmth.
Compression can make a real difference for people dealing with swelling, aching or circulation problems. The key is finding the right garment and fit for your needs, then wearing it consistently as part of your regular care and treatment plan.
Get Fitted for Compression
BioPed Certified Compression Fitters can help you find the right fit for your compression needs. Contact your local BioPed clinic to book an appointment today.
