Of the many types of venous conditions suffered by millions of Americans, varicose veins and spider veins are the most common. A venous condition like varicose veins might cause little to no discomfort and might just be a cosmetic concern. However, a vascular disease like deep vein thrombosis might cause swelling of the legs and can be very painful. Practically every kind of venous or vascular disease will affect the legs or lower regions of the body. These parts of the body can easily be treated with compression therapy.
What Does Compression Therapy Do for Veins and Arteries?
Diseases or disorders of the veins and arteries can almost always be improved by the application of constant and sustained pressure. This is accomplished by the wearing of compression stockings. The wearing of compression stockings can improve circulation, decrease swelling, and reduce pain. The design of compression stockings makes them capable of offering these benefits to their wearers.
Compression stockings are designed to administer higher levels of pressure around the ankles, with pressure levels decreasing as the garment nears the top of the thighs. Venous diseases are characterized by the pooling or stagnation of blood at the bottoms of the legs or ankles. The tightness of the stockings around the ankles works in tandem with the pumping of the leg muscles to move the blood back up the legs. This brings down swelling, improves blood circulation, and reduces discomfort.
Compression Therapy and Surgery
We remind our patients that compression therapy can be applied to multiple areas of the body. Compression garments aren’t just limited to compression stockings, either. There are many kinds of garments designed and manufactured for bodily compression purposes. Increased circulation in the veins and arteries can benefit many physical conditions as well as help with healing after surgical procedures.
Compression garments are often necessary for men and women suffering from deep vein thrombosis because they improve circulation and keep blood from clotting, which is the primary symptom of this disease. This benefit can also be useful for patients who are recovering from some kinds of surgical procedures. Blood clots can develop while surgery is being performed or while healing is taking place after surgery.
Many doctors advise patients having major surgery to wear compression garments for extended periods of time after surgery. The compression garments keep the blood moving, making it less likely to fall into stagnation. Regular exercise before surgical procedures can help cut down on the chances of blood clots as well.
Get In Touch with Us for More Information
Compression stockings can be worn throughout the day, and many times this is necessary. They are comfortable enough to also be worn while asleep at night if necessary. Do you have a health condition you think might improve with compression therapy? If so, we warmly invite you to reach out and make an appointment with Pacific Vein Care. At our convenient location in McHenry, IL, our caring and dedicated team of professionals will be eager to explain this option in greater detail and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to set up your consultation – we look forward to meeting you!