Elastic Stockings: How Do They Work?

Generality

The graduated compression elastic stockings represent one of the most used remedies in all those cases in which the return of venous blood to the heart is reduced (venous insufficiency); this is the case, for example, of varicose veins.

In other circumstances, elastic stockings can be used for preventive purposes, such as in the case of preventing thrombus formation, for example, in bedridden patients after surgery.

The use of elastic stockings is a method that does not allow the healing of the aforementioned ailments, but it can certainly slow down their worsening. Furthermore, elastic stockings help to relieve the typical symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as swelling, edema and sensation of heavy legs.
In order for the elastic stockings to perform their therapeutic action at their best, it is a good idea to wear them in the morning before getting out of bed and before the legs begin to swell.

Types and modalities of action

The graduated compression elastic stockings act by exerting a graduated compression, which is maximum at the ankle level and then gradually decreases to the knee or thigh (depending on the type of stocking used: knee-highs, hold-ups, tights or single tights) .

It is precisely the gradual pressure exerted from the bottom to the top that favors the return of blood to the heart, thus improving venous circulation.