The demand for compression stockings go in the upward trend because such leg wears are no longer the usual thick and visible kinds. In the past, people can easily identify compression from the regular stockings because of the thick elastic materials used in their manufacture. Today, these kinds of hosiery are highly fashionable; they are sheer, thin and natural-looking.
Women who are now cognizant of the benefits of using the compression stockings are no longer adamant in using these. On the legs, the sock just looks like any ordinary pair of stockings. However, it is important that you identify the reason for your need for these medical stockings. As these socks have different levels of compression, understanding your needs will lead to the right choice required by your legs.
There are different brands of compression stockings. They are made from different materials, thickness and shades. Despite these differences, you can rest assured that they will function effectively to alleviate the blood circulation problems. With the pair of medicinal socks, you will feel it tightest in the ankle area gradually becoming less constrictive as it goes up to the knees and thighs. The pressure on the veins and arteries will optimize the blood circulation in the entire body system.
Although there are different styles and makes, the compression stockings are divided into two major categories - gradient and anti-embolism.
Gradient kind
The gradient kinds are designed to give relief to achy legs. The pressure of the stockings will help improve blood circulation. These are woven in a way that will make the compression level gradually diminish from the ankle to the top. When medical advice is sought, these kinds will be prescribed for people who are prone to blood clots and edema. This will prevent the pooling of the blood in the legs because of long period of foot inactivity. These stockings are prescribed for swelling, varicose veins and lymphedema. Because of the beneficial effects on leg-swelling, the wearing of compression stockings is advocated for diabetics.
Compression stockings are recommended for expectant mothers, usually fatigued legs, swollen feet and legs and overweight women. It has been noted that because of the way these stockings were designed today, many women wear them even without experiencing pain in the legs. People begin to love the way these compression stockings feel on the legs.
Anti-embolism kind
Just like any compression stockings, the anti-embolism kinds are designed to exert different degrees of pressure on the wearer's ankles and legs - being more constrictive at the ankle portion loosening towards the top. Anti-embolism stockings have 18 mmHg labels which mean that the pressure measurement for a pair is 18 millimeters of mercury. Thus these are only for short-term use, while the wearer is still non-ambulatory and is mobile.
The purpose of anti-embolism stockings is for the prevention of blood clot formation in the legs. The blood clot that moves into the blood stream is called embolus. When this becomes lodged in a vessel in the brain or lungs, it can be fatal. This kind of hose is highly recommended for people who are prone to DVT or deep vein thrombosis. People who are immobile for long time can be susceptible to DVT which can lead to serious medical condition. Thus, the wearing of anti-embolism compression stockings becomes a must.
You know that compression stockings are leg wears that had been invented and designed to provide comfort to the aching legs. What used to be an abominable sight when worn, the compression stockings now are fashionable; they look natural on the legs which do not give away the idea that you are on medical treatment. As you decide to wear the compression stockings, you have to seek advice as to which of the gradient or anti-embolism kinds are suitable to your needs.