Basic medical knowledge on compression therapy

Medical compression therapy applies a type of elastic device on limbs or other body parts to exert a controlled pressure on them. Thereby, the device squeezes the vein walls together and improves the circulatory rate. Medical compression also helps with reduction of edema and recreates conditions beneficial for the healing of chronic inflammatory disorders.

Basically, the greater the compression level, or compression strength, the tighter the compression stocking. These levels are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). It's the same scale used to take your blood pressure.

Chronic Venous Disorders (CVD) is a collective term that describes a long-standing condition involving impaired venous return in varying degrees of severity. To distinguish the different manifestations of CVD, the CEAP classification system is used.

Constant standing or sitting impedes the flow of blood towards the heart. Under certain circumstances, this can lead to venous insufficiency, which is characterized by improperly functioning vein valves that interfere with venous return and cause the blood to pool in the veins. If left untreated, venous insufficiency can result in the formation of serious disorders, including phlebitis, pulmonary embolism, or ulcers.

Acute manifestations of venous disorders such as pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis usually occur without pre-existing conditions, but they can also be triggered by chronic venous disorders. In any case, medical treatment is immediately required.

Many factors can unfavorably influence leg health. These can include lifestyle factors, such as reduced activity, obesity, and/or smoking. Other factors such as advanced age, gender, hormonal changes, and a family history of venous disorders are also influential. In these cases, compression wear may help to support leg health. Factors such as surgery and long-distance traveling bear an increased risk for the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Wearing compression might prevent DVT to develop.

Rumors, misconceptions, reluctance, and preconceived ideas on compression wear persist. For too long, medical compression stockings have struggled with their dated image that is far from today’s reality. It’s time to get rid of the most popular misconceptions.

The vascular system permits blood to circulate and transport nutrients, oxygen, carbon dioxide, hormones, blood cells, and fluid through the body. It consists of the arterial system, the venous system, and the lymphatic system.