HOWTOCHOOSEANDUSECOMPRESSION STOCKINGS
People wear compression stockings for comfort, to do better in sports, and to help prevent serious medical conditions. Basically, they improve your blood flow. They can lessen pain and swelling in your legs.
WHATARE THEY? Compression stockings are specially made, snug-fitting, stretchy socks that gently squeeze your leg. Graduated compression or pressure stockings are tighter around your ankle and get looser as they move up your leg. Compression sleeves are just the tube part, without the foot.
WHOUSESTHEM? People with or at risk for circulation problems, like DVT, varicose veins, or Pdiabeteseoplewho've just gotten surgery Those who can't leave their bed or have a hard time moving their legs People who stand all day at work PAthletesregnant women
The pressure these stockings put on your legs helps your blood vessels work better. The arteries that take oxygen-rich blood to your muscles can relax, so blood flows freely. The veins get a boost pushing blood back to your heart. Compression stockings can keep your legs from getting tired and achy. They can also ease swelling in your feet and ankles as well as help prevent and treat spider and varicose veins. They may even stop you from feeling light-headed or dizzy when you stand up.
WHATDOTHEYDO?
HOWTOWEA THEM Smooth out the stockings so they lie flat against your skin. Avoid bunching. Make sure they aren't too long. Don't fold or roll the tops down, because that can make them too tight. It could cause blood flow problems or cut off your circulation like a tourniquet.
