About Compression Therapy
What is it? | Why is compression needed? | Benefits of compression for Tired Legs, Active Legs, Recovering Legs, Lymphedema | What is an Expert FitterWhat is Compression Therapy
Compression therapy is the use of specialized hosiery designed to support your veins and increase circulation. The compression increases blood flow velocity and valve effectiveness thereby preventing the formation of blood clots in lower legs, aiding in the treatment of ulcers of the lower legs, and providing relief to heavy and aching legs.Compression therapy is used to prevent the occurrence of, or resist against further progression of, venous disorders such as edema, phlebitis and (deep vein) thrombosis.
Unlike traditional dress or athletic stockings and socks, compression stockings use stronger elastics to create significant pressure on the legs, ankles and feet. Stockings are tightest at the ankles, and gradually become less constrictive toward the knees and thighs.
The stockings compress surface veins, arteries and muscles, thereby forcing circulating blood through narrower channels, increasing arterial pressure and causing more blood to return to the heart and less pooling in the feet.
The stockings compress surface veins, arteries and muscles, thereby forcing circulating blood through narrower channels, increasing arterial pressure and causing more blood to return to the heart and less pooling in the feet.
There are two types of compression stockings, gradient and anti-embolism. Anti-Embolism Stockings (thromboembolism-deterrent hose, or TEDs for short) are used to support the venous and lymphatic drainage of the leg in non-ambulatory patients. Doctors typically recommend TEDs for patients who are prone to blood clots, pre and post surgery, and patients who are on bedrest.
Why is Compression Needed?
Our veins transport blood, along with waste products, to our heart and other detoxification centers of our body. Our arteries supply nutrients to our cells, muscles and organs. When our veins are diseased, this can cause venous congestion in our legs.Factors that can cause congestion in our veins (legs) include:
- Sitting and standing for long periods of time
- Hot baths
- Sunburns to our legs
- Excess weight
- Flying in an Airplane
- Travelling for long periods in a Car/Train
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Bed Rest (non-ambulatory)
Who Can Benefit from Compression Therapy?
Anyone who is on their feet or sitting stationary for long periods of time can benefit from gradient compression. So, essentially anyone!Relief for Tired Legs
Achy, heavy, cramping and tired legs at the end of a long day of walking or sitting often result from poor circulation of blood flow. Proactive care to relieve tired and sedentary legs is critical to prevent a number of health conditions such as Varicose Veins (enlarged, hardened veins), Chronic Venous Disease (blood pooling caused by failing valves within the veins) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (a blood clot deep in the lower limbs).Support for Active Legs
Venous return can be significantly reduced post exercise letting the build up of lactic acid, carbon dioxide and metabolic waste. Compression therapy can decrease swelling, pain, increase blood flow and enhance lymphatic return, which speeds recovery and relieves muscle soreness.Care for Recovering Legs
Rest, ice, compression, elevation! Compression therapy accelerates recovery from injury by reducing swelling, reduce excess fluid buildup, stimulate the flow of lymph fluid bringing vital nutrients to damaged tissue and removing waste. The combined effects of compression therapy enables a faster healing process.Lymphedema
Compression Therapy is also used for those with Lymphedema. Lymphedema is localized swelling occurring when lymph vessels are blocked or unable to carry lymph fluid away from the tissues. Lymphedema most often affects a single arm or leg but can affect both limbs. Lymphedema most often occurs from damage to, or removal of, the lymph nodes as a part of cancer treatment. Lymphedema can be either primary (occurs on its own) or secondary (caused by another disease or condition). Secondary lymphedema is far more common than primary lymphedema. Secondary lymphedema might be caused by surgery, radiation, cancer or infection.Shelley is an expert fitter for stockings and sleeves.
Compression garments must be professionally fitted.
As an Expert compression and lymphedema garmet fitter Shelley takes the proper measurements and can help recommend the appropriate medical compression length and level of pressure with your doctor.Tender Soles Healthcare travels to you for fittings in the privacy of your own home, for ease of client convenience and privacy.