Compression Stockings -
What are they and why do people wear them?

Compression stockings are designed for compression therapy. They apply gentle pressure to your legs and ankles, promoting blood flow. Compression stockings and bandages can help regulate the blood flow in your legs and alleviate symptoms such as swelling and discomfort.

Compression therapy has two key roles:

To reduce swelling caused by fluid filtration in the tissues; and
To reduce venous reflux venous hypertension

Other conditions that utilise compression stockings as part of treatment include varicose veins and post surgery care.

What is Venous Odema and
How Do Compression Stockings Help?

Venous oedema is a condition that results in the swelling of your lower limbs, usually caused by a defect or blockage in the veins. When your veins cannot properly send blood from the limbs back to the heart, it is commonly known as venous insufficiency, which causes blood to accumulate in the veins of your legs.

Some of the associated symptoms include pain and discomfort as well as heaviness in the lower limbs. While elevation can reduce some of these, it can only provide partial relief. Leaving venous oedema untreated progressively deteriorates the skin of your legs, causing it to pigment, become dry and weak, ultimately leading to the development of ulcers as the skin breaks down and is infected.

In terms of venous oedema, wearing compression socks or stockings may suffice for milder conditions. However, for more moderate to severe cases, compression bandages may need to be applied first to mitigate the swelling before wearing compression socks or stockings.

Compression stockings are often worn by elderly patients. As we age, we reach a point where our bodies are not as resilient as they used to be, and we experience health deficiencies, including varicose veins and circulation problems due to lack of mobility. Compression socks can therefore provide some comfort to the aged, especially during the cold winter months.

What are T.E.D Stockings?

T.E.D or Thrombo-Embolus Deterrent stockings are also known as Compression Stockings or Anti-Embolism Stockings and are designed to help reduce the risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (also referred to as a DVT) or blood clot in your lower leg after surgery or if you are inactive for long periods of time.

Wearing TED stockings can help reduce the risk of developing pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lungs).

TED stockings are made of firm elastic and provide graduated compression over the ankle, mid calf and thigh. The compression has the effect of speeding up the circulation of the blood in your veins. This makes clotting less likely. It is important that the stockings fit your leg firmly.

It is advised that you get fitted for the correct size of compression stockings by a healthcare professional or whilst in hospital.

At Vital Medical Supplies, we offer a variety of compression stockings and bandages from brands such as JOBST, Smith & Nephew, and Covidien, ranging in compression levels to suit your needs.