Compression Stockings to Help Treat Varicose Veins

If you are one of the more than 35 percent of Americans who suffer from varicose veins–you may want to consider getting a pair of compression stockings.

Varicose vein (and spider vein) treatment is one of our specialties at VeinSolutions Austin. Varicose veins appear knotty and bulging under the skin’s surface and prevent proper blood flow from the lower legs up towards the heart. They often cause legs to become swollen, itchy, achy, and fatigued.

Compression stockings can help ease painful symptoms of varicose veins if worn often and as directed. (And with longer skirts and slacks as the norm now for the cooler weather, they are perfectly discreet while providing added warmth!)

What are compression stockings?

Compression stockings help improve circulation in the legs by providing gentle pressure (in the form of elasticized material) and promoting better blood flow to the heart. The improved circulation prohibits blood from pooling in the veins causing irritation and helps legs to feel more calm and refreshed. They come in all sorts of colors and styles to suit your individual taste, from flesh-colored and barely-there to bright and bolder hues.

Who should wear compression stockings?

VeinSolutions typically recommends stockings as a first form of non-invasive treatment for those with varicose veins. They should be worn while you are awake and during your most active times of the day…exercising, out walking around, or up on your feet or standing for long periods.

Stockings are also used in conjunction with other varicose vein treatments such as sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, and minimally invasive vein surgery to aid in healing afterwards. Following these therapies, patients should wear compression stockings for at least two weeks (or as directed by your physician).

Where can I get them and do I need a prescription?

Compression stockings are available online as well as at most pharmacies and drug stores where no prescription is needed. At VeinSolutions, we advise our patients to purchase stockings with a compression level of 20-30 mmHg (which is what is also recommended by the Society for Vascular Surgery) to help with varicose vein pains and to aid in healing after varicose or spider vein treatment.

If compression stockings do not help ease varicose vein symptoms and you’re interested in learning about other treatment options, please visit us here to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified specialists at VeinSolutions in Austin, or contact us at 512.452.VEIN (8346). For VeinSolutions in Georgetown, please contact us at 512-501-4287.

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