If you’ve recently completed a vein treatment, you might think that you can finally hang up those compression stockings.
For those who are unaware, compression socks are used to improve blood flow. They do this by compressing the leg, which allows arteries to relax and blood to flow more freely. Those with varicose veins love compression stockings, as continual wearing of compression socks can make it less likely for one to develop further varicose veins.
However, if you’ve already waved goodbye to your varicose and spider veins, you may be looking at your compression stockings wondering if it’s time to toss them in the trash.
But don’t throw away your compression stockings just yet! Continuing to wear compression stockings can make it less likely for varicose veins to return along with numerous other benefits.
Vanish Advanced Vein Treatments in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area is home to vein specialists with many years of experience. In this article, we’ll use that knowledge to explain why you should keep wearing compression socks after treatment, how to find the right compression sock, and what to do if you still have questions.
Background
As we stated above, compression socks are used to improve blood flow. This makes it difficult for blood to pool, in turn lowering the risk of varicose veins.
However, varicose veins can develop at any time. That’s why it’s important to continue to wear compression stockings, even after one has already received vein treatment.
Think of it like a prescription medication. Venous insufficiency is a real problem and vein treatment is the cure; compression stockings are simply the follow-up medication that prevents the illness from returning.
If it helps, you can think of compression socks as a way to slow the spread of varicose veins, even if they’ve already been treated.
When Should I Wear Compression Socks?
The correct answer to this question is, “when you can.” As compression stockings increase blood flow, there are manifold benefits to their continued use. It’s pretty difficult to wear compression socks too much!
That said, if you’re looking for a specific time to wear them, vein specialists like ourselves recommend wearing them at times when you’re generally inactive. Examples of this include travel days, days when you’re mostly standing or sitting, or other days where you spend a considerable amount of time in one position.
If you’re working out or going on a vigorous walk, you are more than welcome to take off your compression socks. Just be sure to pop them back on upon your return!
Do My Compression Stockings Fit?
For those who have already worn compression socks, the snug fit will not be surprising. But for those making their first purchase of compression stockings, they might be concerned about firmness or just how tight the stockings can get.
In general, the rule is that stockings should fit snugly, but not be uncomfortable.
To ensure comfort, it’s best to purchase medical grade stockings. In our experience, these stockings fit patients better, and they report higher feelings of satisfaction with regard to comfort.
Any compression properly-fitted compression stockings are better than no compression stockings at all, but medical grade products frequently have a better quality of fabric and more elegant fit than their over-the-counter alternatives.
While the price is higher, as compression stockings are something that should be worn frequently, many patients find that nicer compression socks are worth the investment.
If your compression socks feel too tight or are too difficult to put on and remove, you might consider a lighter compression strength like 15-20mmHg.
Conclusion
While vein treatment can solve a lot of varicose and spider vein issues, it will not prevent you from ever developing further varicose veins.
This is where compression socks come in. Before or after treatment, these stockings will improve your blood flow and can lower the risk that you’ll develop any additional varicose or spider veins.
If you’re interested in treatment, compression stockings, or just have questions, reach out to us via our contact page. One of our vein specialists will respond to your query as promptly as possible!