Compression Therapy

What is compression therapy?

• Compression therapy is the use of medical-grade compression products along with other at home conservative therapies to improve the blood circulation in your legs and help relieve symptoms associated with varicose vein disease (aka Chronic Venous Insufficiency).
• Presently, five categories of compression therapy of the extremities are available: compression bandages, compression stockings, self-adjustable Velcro devices, compression pumps, and hybrid devices.
• Compression stockings are most commonly used for short-term application after varicose vein interventions.
• These over-the-knee stockings can be worn by themselves or beneath longer clothing, such as skirts and trousers.
• Medical-grade strength stockings range between 20-50 mmHg (the same unit used to measure blood pressure) and are prescribed by our vein specialists.
• Integrated Skin Institute is partnered with local specialty medical clinics and stores that can help with the custom fitting stocking appropriate to your comfort. 

How do compression stockings work?

• In healthy veins, blood flows up toward the heart. If you have varicose veins, weak vein walls or valves allow blood to flow backward and pool in the veins, which results in the typical blue bulging appearance of varicose veins.
• Compression stockings, also called compression hose, pressure stockings, or support stockings, work by providing consistent pressure to the leg, which helps blood move through the veins instead of pooling.
• Compression is graduated- compression pressure is strongest at the ankle and decreases higher up the leg, allowing for increased blood flow.
• Compression typically ranges from 8mmHg (mild) to 40mmHg (extra firm). 
• Patients should always consult their vein specialist to get information on the correct compression level – leave this to us!

• Our vein specialists recommend compression of at least 20 mmHg for the best possible results. We also recommend choosing compression socks that are fitted by height, and not by standard small/medium/large sizing.
• If possible, always opt for over-the-knee or thigh-high compression stockings, as these will provide maximum coverage (including additional UV protection in warmer months) and support both your calf and thigh with graduated compression. 
• Shorter styles are available, but do not compress the entire leg and may be less effective at relieving your symptoms.

How to wear compression stockings

Routine Daily Use: 

• When you are standing (in a vertical position), gravity causes the blood flow to become restricted due to compromised valves. For this reason, the calves and ankles typically feel fine in the morning but get inflamed and heavy during the course of the day.
• Wearing compression socks in the morning enables the valves to remain in the correct position to support proper blood circulation in the legs during the day.
• Compression stockings can help address symptoms such as:
  • heavy or painful legs
  • swollen ankles
  • night cramps
  • restless legs
  • tiredness and pain

Immediately after medical or cosmetic treatment:

• Post-operative care, especially involving compression therapy, remains crucial to improve outcomes, prevent varicose vein recurrence, and enhance overall recovery.
• Wearing compression stockings for approximately one week after endothermal ablation and and/or sclerotherapy can minimize bruising and early post-treatment pain.

Can compression alone treat my varicose veins?

• No. For existing varicose veins or spider veins, they will not disappear by simple conservative strategies.
• Vein diseases such as chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins are progressive, which means they worsen over time the longer they go untreated. Compression, while beneficial, is not a permanent treatment for varicose veins. 
• Supporting good circulation and reducing swelling may help alleviate discomfort from painful symptoms of vein disease, but compression stockings will not make varicose veins fade or go away. 
• Regular use may help to keep symptoms mild while you pursue vein treatment, or help to postpone vein treatment.

What are some other conservative therapies for varicose vein disease?

Increasing Exercise, Especially Walking and Running:
Engaging in physical activities that strengthen the large muscles in your legs can significantly improve circulation. These activities help the muscles compress the veins in your legs, promoting better blood flow. Just thirty minutes of exercise focused on the lower body can not only help with vein health but also improve overall wellness.

Varying Activity to Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing:
Staying on your feet for extended periods increases pressure on your circulatory system. It’s important to take breaks, sit down, and stretch regularly. Similarly, long journeys, whether by plane or car, often require sitting for hours, which can cause blood to pool and irritate veins in your legs.

Elevating Your Legs While Resting or Working:
When standing, the veins in your legs face pressure from gravity. This is also true when lying down with your legs flat. Elevating your legs by six to twelve inches above heart level can help reduce swelling, pressure, and discomfort. Try propping up your legs with a pillow once a day to relieve the strain on your veins.

Losing Weight:
Carrying excess weight places significant strain on your veins and other vital organs. This added pressure can impair the veins’ ability to circulate blood effectively. Consider working with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized diet plan and achieve a healthy weight for improved overall health.