Treating Leg Swelling with Compression Stockings

After standing for long periods, your legs often swell and feel uncomfortable. You’re looking for a solution to regain your energy and ease these symptoms. You’ve heard about compression stockings and want to learn more about how they can help.

To help you, Dr. James Kim and our team of heart health experts have created a simple guide on using compression stockings to reduce lower leg swelling.

Understanding Leg Swelling

Swelling in your lower legs, known medically as edema, can occur for various reasons, some harmless. For instance, your ankles might swell on an airplane or during the third trimester of pregnancy. In these cases, the swelling is temporary and will subside.

However, more serious causes of leg swelling often involve issues with your blood vessels. Chronic venous insufficiency, where the valves in your leg veins weaken and allow blood to pool, or blocked arteries that slow circulation, are common culprits.

Regardless of whether the swelling is temporary or due to chronic conditions, compression stockings can be beneficial in managing the symptoms.

How Compression Stockings Work

Compression stockings apply pressure to your lower legs, promoting better circulation back to your heart. The veins in your legs must overcome both distance and gravity to deliver blood, and these stockings offer extra support.

When worn regularly, compression stockings can also help to:

• Prevent deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot in your leg)
• Counteract venous hypertension
• Encourage lymphatic drainage
• Prevent venous ulcers

Additionally, these stockings are designed to reduce swelling in your lower legs.

Tips for Using Compression Stockings

If we determine that compression stockings would be beneficial for you, we will help you choose the right product.

Once you have your stockings, keep these tips in mind:

• Ensure your legs are dry before putting on your compression stockings.
• Wear the stockings as prescribed.
• If your legs start to swell while wearing the stockings, elevate your feet.
• If you experience any irritation, let us know so we can find a better pair for you.

If you want to learn whether compression stockings can help with your leg swelling, please contact one of our locations in Chula Vista or National City, California, to schedule a consultation.