Support stockings and compression stockings

Support stockings and compression stockings

Support stockings, also called travel stockings or compression stockings, are used to prevent discomfort and swelling in the legs, swollen and aching legs, or, in the worst case, blood clots. Support stockings and compression stockings are suitable for use on long journeys and when sitting a lot, during pregnancy and in situations that cause tired and tired legs.

What happens to the body when we sit still for a long time?

If you sit still for a long time, for example on long flights, the blood flow in the body decreases. Normally, the blood in the legs is pushed back to the heart when we use the calf and thigh muscles, but this is disturbed by sitting a lot. The blood can therefore collect in the legs and feet. Stagnant blood, or blood that flows more slowly than normal, clots ("clumps") more easily, which can lead to blood clots.

Certain groups may have an increased risk of getting blood clots, including: birth control pill users, pregnant women, overweight people, smokers and the elderly (increased age increases the risk of blood clots).

Why use support stockings?

The stockings are made tight, and create a counter pressure in the ankles and around the calves. This means that the blood naturally flows back towards the heart instead of piling up in the legs.

They are suitable for use on long journeys where you will be sitting very still. If you have a job where you sit or stand a lot, the stockings may also be suitable. Pregnant women can also use support stockings. If you are generally bothered by "tired" legs, support stockings can help.

The support stockings are preferably put on in the morning, when the legs are least swollen. The stockings must be taken off in the evening, you must not sleep with them. Ideally, you should wash your socks every day, according to the instructions on the package.

There are different degrees of compression in support stockings/compression stockings. Low degree of compression (class 1) is used preventively when traveling or with mild swelling. Higher degrees of compression (class 2,3 and 4) are usually used in consultation with healthcare personnel, such as after operations or in those who have had a blood clot in the leg.