Graduated Compression Stockings
The principle and use of graduated compression stockings
Wearing graduated compression stockings is one way to prevent varicose veins or to prevent them from worsening. Graduated compression stockings must meet the standards of graduated pressure, meaning that the pressure at the ankle is the highest, gradually decreasing upwards, with the lowest pressure at the thigh. This helps improve blood flow back to the legs, relieves fatigue in the lower limbs, and reduces the rate of deterioration of varicose veins.
When compression stockings meet the standards of progressive pressure—meaning the pressure at the ankle is the highest, gradually decreasing upwards, with the lowest pressure at the thigh—they help blood return to the legs, relieve fatigue in the lower limbs, and reduce the rate of deterioration of varicose veins.
In contrast, compression stockings purchased in the market may not provide a progressive effect. The pressure applied to the thighs and ankles is similar; however, because the thighs are usually thicker, the pressure is greater there than at the ankles. As a result, they cannot effectively support blood circulation in the lower limbs. Instead, they act like a highly elastic tourniquet, causing blood stagnation in the bound area, which increases the burden on the body and heart, and does not help improve varicose veins
