How they work

Compression stockings are designed to provide support to the legs and veins, assist with circulation, and minimize swelling. The compression is graduated, with the strongest support starting at the ankles and gradually decreasing towards the top of the garment. This gradual support works in conjunction with the pumping action of the calf muscles, which also assist with circulation.

A common myth is that compression stockings will cut off circulation. When fitted and worn properly, compression stockings help with your circulation, not reduce or restrict it. The sock helps reduce the stretching of the vein walls and allow the valves to close properly and improves overall circulation.

Compression garments are categorized by classes. These classes consist of compression ranges, which are measured in mmHg---meaning millimeters of mercury, the universal form of measurement used for this type of garment. There are designated medical indications for each compression class.

Ask yourself these questions:

Does your job require prolonged sitting or standing?

Do you have spider veins on your legs?

Does one or both of your parents suffers(ed) from varicose veins?

Are you over the age of 50?

Do you have excess weight?

Are you pregnant?

Are your ankles swollen in the evening?

Do you experience a decrease in leg pain when you elevate your legs?

Have you noticed some discoloration of the skin on your legs?

Do you have varicose veins?

Have you had vein inflammation or a blood clot (DVT- deep vein thrombosis)?

Please contact us with any questions about compression stocking therapy.

Where to get

Our certified fitters at Kinetic Konnection will ensure you are fitted and educated properly. Understanding what compression socks do, how to put them on and care for them is just as important as being fitted correctly. Our staff understands that wearing compression socks is new for most people. We take the time to make sure you are comfortable with your decision to take better care of your legs.

Many health plans do cover the cost of compression garments when prescribed by your doctor. Check your plan and speak to your doctor to find out if compression socks are right for you.

Contact us for more information and your free Information Booklet on “Your veins and Compression Therapy"

About your veins

Many factors contribute to the overall health of our legs: heredity, weight, age, and diet and activity level. But it’s the internal function of the legs that also plays an important role: calf muscles, arteries, veins, and vein valves – the internal highway of blood and oxygen flow.

The flow of blood in the veins is assisted by a series of one-way valves. The valves remain open when the blood flows toward the heart, and then closed after blood passes through. Over time, an increase in pressure can stretch the vein walls. If a vein becomes enlarged and over-stretched the valves cannot close properly, causing blood to leak back down into the lower legs, resulting in poor circulation.

If this happens you may begin to develop symptoms, such as:

• Heavy, tired, aching legs
• Swollen legs and/or ankles
• Sensation of warmth in the legs
• Tingling or cramping of the legs
• Dull or sharp pain in the calf
• Small varicose veins and spider veins