Compression stockings
Compression stockings are a specialized hosiery designed to help prevent the occurrence of, and guard against further progression of, venous disorders such as edema, phlebitis and thrombosis.
Pronunciation
/kəmˈprɛʃ(ə)n ˈstɒkɪŋ/
Etymology
The term "compression" comes from the Latin compressio, meaning "a pressing together", and "stocking" from the Old English stocu, a tight fitting garment for the foot and leg.
Function
Compression stockings are elastic garments worn around the leg, compressing the limb. This reduces the diameter of distended veins and increases venous blood flow velocity and valve effectiveness. Compression therapy helps decrease venous pressure, prevents venous stasis and impairments of venous walls, and relieves heavy and aching legs.
Types of Compression Stockings
There are two types of compression stockings, graduated compression stockings and anti-embolism stockings. Graduated compression stockings exert the maximum compression at the ankle, and the level of compression gradually decreases up the garment. Anti-embolism stockings are used for patients who are non-ambulatory.
Related Terms
- Edema: Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in your body's tissues.
- Phlebitis: Inflammation of a vein.
- Thrombosis: Local coagulation or clotting of the blood in a part of the circulatory system.
- Graduated compression stockings: Stockings that exert the maximum compression at the ankle, and the level of compression gradually decreases up the garment.
- Anti-embolism stockings: Stockings used for patients who are non-ambulatory.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Compression stockings
- Wikipedia's article - Compression stockings
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