Compression stockings are therapeutic hosiery that help increase
venous circulation to the lower extremities. They reduce pain, fatigue and swelling of the legs. Stockings with lower
degrees of compression (under 20 mmHg) can be worn for support, while higher degrees of compression require
a prescription and are worn as medical leg-wear.
Physicians recommend
or prescribe compression stockings for varicose veins, venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), venous ulcers,
diabetic associated venous problems, or venous congestion associated with pregnancy. Compression stockings are available in
many sizes, styles, and compression ranges for both male and female.
There are two types of compression
stockings: gradient and uniform. Gradient compression stockings decrease in pressure from the ankle up towards the thigh.
The ankle has the highest degree of compression, which prevents pooling in the lowest extremities and helps push the
blood away from the force of gravity back up to the heart. Uniform compression stockings (also known as anti-embolism stockings)
have equal pressure throughout. They help
prevent blood clots from forming in the deep veins of the leg. This type of stocking is for bed-bound patients only,
and is commonly prescribed incorrectly. If you are walking, you should not be using anti-embolism stockings.
Support stockings must be specially fitted by a trained professional. At Rxtra Care, we can
fit you for stockings and order the correct size in a variety of colors and styles. We carry Activa, Jobst,
T.E.D. and Tru-Form brands.
