Compression stockings

YOUR LEGS WILL THANK YOU!

It’s not often that we talk about our legs, unless, that is, something is wrong with them. We should take care of our legs; we use them all day to get around. Other than regular exercise and gentle stretching, the best way to care for our legs is to wear compression stockings. I’m sure some of you are sceptical, partially because you may remember the compression stockings elderly parents wore in the past. Those old compression stockings looked and felt like inner tubes. Thank goodness they are a thing of the past. Current compression stockings look and feel just like regular socks and come in a wide variety of colours and styles.

I have a small confession to make. I wear compression stockings almost daily and have done so for quite some time. As a healthcare professional, I spend a lot of time on my feet. If I forget to put on my stockings, my legs feel tired and a little swollen at the end of the day. Compression stockings provide extra support that helps provide blood circulation and prevent fluid buildup around my ankles. I tend to recommend compression stockings to a few groups of people: seniors, pregnant women, people who stand all day, travellers and athletes.

If you’re planning a long trip, compression stockings are a must. Sitting for long periods of time ca cause venous thromboembolism (a blot clot in a vein). Blood clots in veins can be painful and difficult to remove. Air travelers with flights of six hours or more should wear compression socks. In one study, compression stockings proved to be more effective than aspirin and blood thinners in prevention of vein blood clots on longer air trips.

And if you’re headed on vacation, remember to ask your pharmacist for a tube of antiviral nasal gel. This can help prevent you from catching a cold on the plane.

Pregnant women can benefit from compression stockings. Fluid retention is normal during pregnancy, but can become uncomfortable when ankles and feet swell. Wearing compression stocking is a medication-free way to reduce ankle swelling. A number of our compression stocking clients are referrals from midwives.

I recommend compression stockings to anyone who spends a lot time on their feet. This just makes sense. If you are standing or sitting in the same position for long periods of time, gravity will naturally pull fluid into your legs and ankles. If you wear compression stockings, by the end of the day, your legs will feel less tired. Most compression stockings look like regular socks so people will never know you’re wearing them. If you have extended medical coverage through your employer, there is a good chance that medical grade compression stockings are a benefit. Check your benefits package booket for confirmation.

Several Heart pharmacies have certified compression stocking fitters on staff. Call ahead to book a fitting appointment, or just to ask questions. www.heartpharmacy.com