Debunking Myths: Are Compression Stockings Really Effective?

Compression stockings have been applied for decades as a cure for numerous problems affecting the legs, and the circulatory system in general. But there are several myths about this matter: how effective they are, who should use them, and what it must be like to wear. It can now be timely to explain in detail some of these frequently used myths and expose them one by one.

• Compression Stockings Are Only for the Elderly

Many people still believe that it is necessary only for the elders to wear compression stockings. In fact, it increases the convenience of a person’s life in general – it helps athletes, pregnant women, those who frequently travel, or those who spend most of their time either sitting or standing.

Debunking: Graduated compression hosiery enhances the circulation and prevents the formation of the blood clots and as such useful to anyone with risk of poor blood circulation. For example, athletes put them on to increase performance and shorten the time taken in the recovery of muscles that are usually sore. They are described by pregnant women as useful in preventing swollen ankles and the formation of varicose veins. Desk bound people, particularly employees, can greatly feel the difference of better blood circulation brought by compression stockings. While the elderly are sure to benefit from them, they are not the only category of people who might benefit from them.

• Compression Stockings Are Uncomfortable

One more misconception is that the compression stockings are not comfortable and can be hardly worn. When it comes to the concept of putting something that is tight and restrictive, around your legs, this may not exactly create a picture that will make people run out and get one.

Debunking: Surgical compression stockings of the contemporary design are made with comfort of the patient in mind. They are made in different types of material and there are those that are made in such types that they allow air to pass through them and they are very delicate to the touch. Also, they come in various styles that include knee-high, thigh-high as well as full stocking that helps you settle for a type that will make you comfortable. It is apparent that most users who frequently use them ordinarily experience considerable comfort in the long run despite the discomfort at initial stages or use. However, a large number of people find this as rather comforting to their legs and less tiring to the feet especially if one has been on his or her feet for most of the day.

• Compression Stockings Don’t Really Work

There are some debates over whether these compression stockings actually work and provide the efficacy that people expect. They want to know if such garments have any beneficial effect on circulation, or help to prevent swelling.

Debunking: Scientists have carried out many researches and whether pharmacologists agree or let these stockings are helpful for managing many conditions caused by poor blood circulation. For instance, they are worn to avoid the formation of blood clots in the lower legs, which is a petty common condition known as deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, and which could be prompted by situations such as lengthy airplane journeys or operations. Compression put on by the compression stockings exerts slight pressure with an intention of pushing the blood in the right direction back to the heart and in the process, eradicating chances of formation of blood clots as well as swollen limbs. Some of the symptoms that patients claim to improve when they wear these stockings include; leg pain, swelling, and varicose veins which wearing stockings for an extended period may resolve. The use of these stockings has been thoroughly endorsed in medical literature as a way of enhancing the health of the legs.

• You Can Wear Any Size of Compression Stockings

A common misconception is that the compression stockings are ‘universal’ and that any size that is bought will suffice.

Debunking: The sizing of the compression stockings is very important when it comes to considering the use of the stockings. Loose stockings are rather inconvenient and in some cases, may hamper the purpose they are intended for. If they are too small they might hinder blood circulation; if they are too large they will not offer the uniform pressure required. This is why to ensure that you get the correct size and compression level, more so if they are to be worn for medical purposes, one needs to get fitted for the right ones. The trained healthcare professional will advise you about the quality and size of the stockings and the level of compression that is recommended for you, usually measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

• Compression Stockings Are Only for Medical Use

Compression stockings are said to be beneficial only for the people with the particular medical problems like varicose veins or following the surgery.

Debunking: There is so much truth in this as compression stockings are worn for medical reasons sometimes, but are not strictly restricted to health purposes. For instance, athletes employ them in enhancing blood flow in muscles to help in muscle mass regeneration. Some of the people use it during their travels to minimize the incidences of DVT and swelling especially while on a flight. Sedentary people and people who have to stand for long hours at work, for example, nurses and sellers, wear compression stockings to prevent tiredness and pain in the legs. Precisely due to that propriety they proved useful not only in medical situations although they can be used in many more other circumstances.

• Compression Stockings Are Hard to Put On and Take Off

There are some people whose belief of getting and utilizing compression stockings comes from the threat they have heard which is that it is always a struggle to wear them or get them off!

Debunking: As for the concern that compression stockings can be a little difficult to put on if you have never worn any before, well it cannot be refuted. However, there are several things which can help to complete the task fast and with minimal difficulties. But I have found that getting them on for the first time in the mornings, when the legs are not as swollen, can be of help. Ankle area, it is also possible to slip it on easily if you clean then turn it over inside out then put it on. There are also put-to-wear-assist like gloves and frames that assist one to hold the stocking and pull it up in the right manner. I hope you agree, putting compression stockings on and taking them off is not a tough deal, with a little practice, and the right technique, of course.

• Wearing Compression Stockings Can Cause Harm if Used Long-Term

However, it is crucial that wearing compression stockings for an extended period can be damaging, especially if they are worn every day.

Debunking: Compression stockings are perfectly safe to wear long term when used properly and under doctor direction. The trick is in proper sizing and in choosing the right degree of compression.” It is suggested that some individuals must remove them for a while if they experience some symptoms such as rashes or itching. But for many people, putting on compression stockings every day is a good measure to deal with some manifestations of improper blood circulation, and there are no indications that these items are dangerous when used properly midway.

• All Compression Stockings Are the Same

One misperception that is quite widespread is that there are no fundamental differences between various types of compression stockings and therefore their degree of efficacy does not depend on the brand, model, or class of the stockings.

Debunking: They are available in different compression classes, lengths, materials and designs. The pressure that they use is in terms of millimeters of mercury and this is adjustable based on the case that is being addressed. Some stockinets can also vary by the length covering up to the calf area only, others up to the thigh or the lower part of the waist. Therefore the material can as well be very thin and light enough to allow air to pass through the fabric to the skin, at the same time to thicker and more supportive material as well. That’s why it is crucial to choose the type depending on the required purpose, be it the maintenance of the particular pathologic conditions or general support of the legs.

• Compression Stockings Are Outdated

As for the others, they believe that compression stockings are a remedy of the past, using the present day therapies.

Debunking: Contrary to what one might believe, these pieces of wear are not old-fashioned at all, but instead have undergone massive changes over the course of a number of years. It is once again crucial to underline that advances in materials and design technology have made them much more comfortable to wear, necessary and aesthetically pleasing. Today, there are so many types of compression stockings that resemble the normal socks or hosiery so that the people in need of the hosiery can be able to wear them easily. There are also very technical ones that boast graduated compression which is even better for circulation. Finally, it is presumed that the use and importance of compression stockings is something that belongs to the past, which is however not the case at all.

Conclusion: Understanding the True Benefits of Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are easily one of the most powerful tools one has for taking care of his or her legs and yet there is so much misinformation about them. When selected appropriately in terms of size and style and at the right level of compression, and in consultation with a doctor, the benefits of wearing compression stockings can be enjoyed without any of the usual negative effects. Therefore if you are an athlete, a business or leisure traveler or you have a medical condition that necessitates its use, the use of these stockings has its unique practical and proven medical benefits.