Role of stockings for Varicose veins and Spider veins

Stockings are actually good for your veins.

While most people would relate the idea of stockings to that of a lady’s wear, stockings can be more than just a fashion accessory.

According to a study done by the America Association (2002), it is proven that surgical compression stockings can not only control the reflux resulted from the deficiency in the valves of the veins but also improve the calf muscle pump function. The study was conducted on patients who have suffered from venous insufficiency (patient who has varicose veins, spider veins, venous leg ulcers and Deep Vein Thrombosis), some of which had more advanced condition than others. At the end of the study, though some patients benefitted more in the area of controlled reflux compared to improved calf muscle pump function and vice versa, there is still overall significant improvement in the patients’ venous conditions. This goes to say that aside from seeking treatment, wearing these surgical compression stockings would be sufficient to provide support and prevent the venous conditions such as varicose veins and spider veins from deteriorating.

Even if you are not suffering from varicose veins or spider veins or other venous condition right now, wearing stockings on a daily basis would still be beneficial. They promote blood circulation and reduce the chance of “blood stagnation”; where the blood which was supposed to be pumped up to the heart gets pooled up in the veins, causing them to swell and become incompetent or dysfunctional; hence the formation of varicose veins. The stockings can also, in some cases, relieve aching, tiredness, swelling and cramps in the legs.

However, as much as stockings are beneficial to the veins, the tropical climate in Singapore does make it a hassle for many to include these compression stockings as part of their daily wear. In fact, not many would adhere to wear them even on a regular basis unless there is an absolute need to do so; for instance, the need to wear them for long plane rides.

Stockings are also prescribed in Vein Clinic for patients who just had treatment of varicose veins using Endovenous Laser Treatment or sclerotherapy.

References: Zajkowski Paul, Proctor Mary, Wakefield Thomas, Bloom Jess, Blessing Beverlee and Greenfield Lazar (2002)
“Compression Stockings and Venous Function”
Published by Arch Surg/ American Medical Association
Retrieved on 29 December 2011 from www.archsurg.com

by Lorinda
Staff of THE VEIN CLINIC & SURGERY