Compression garments have gained in popularity in recent years for how they can treat and ease symptoms for many different conditions. These garments, which include stockings, tights, sleeves, and socks, are designed to apply a gentle amount of pressure to the affected area to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Medical studies have shown that wearing compression garments can be highly effective in treating several ailments, including varicose veins, lymphedema, and deep vein thrombosis. However, it is important to understand that compression hosiery and sleeves are not suitable for everyone.
Compression garments are great for pregnant women and post-op patients, but they can also work wonders for anyone struggling with poor blood circulation. By helping to increase blood flow and prevent blood clots, these garments can be a lifesaver quite literally. And if you’re someone who’s dealing with the niggling and aggravating symptoms of varicose veins – think pain, swelling, and fatigue – compression stockings can be a game changer.
While these garments can be highly beneficial, it’s important to approach them with caution. The wrong fit or type of compression garment can actually cause discomfort or even pain, especially for those with underlying health conditions like heart failure or cellulitis. And if you have peripheral neuropathy, the risks can be even greater. Nerve damage can make it difficult to feel pain signals, which means you might not even realize you’re experiencing tissue damage. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional before using compression garments. They can help you determine whether compression therapy is right for you and provide guidance on the right type, size, and duration of compression therapy to maximize its benefits while minimizing the risks.
Need more specifics? Well, wearing compression garments, socks and hosiery should be avoided if you have any of the following conditions:
Congestive heart failure
Individuals with congestive heart failure should also be cautious when considering compression garments. This condition occurs when the heart muscle is weak or stiff, leading to fluid build-up in the legs. Compression garments may worsen this fluid build-up by restricting circulation and causing discomfort.
Diabetes
Diabetes can also impact the use of compression garments. Complications to diabetes such as peripheral arterial disease and peripheral neuropathy can make the use of these garments uncomfortable or even harmful for individuals with this condition.
Peripheral neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, a condition that refers to nerve damage in the hands, arms, feet, and legs, can also be exacerbated by compression garments. This is because these garments can put pressure on already sensitive nerves, leading to further damage and pain.
Ischaemia
Ischaemia is a condition where the limbs do not receive enough oxygen, resulting in pain on walking. Compression garments can worsen this condition by restricting blood flow even further, potentially causing more pain and discomfort for the individual.
Cellulitis
Those with cellulitis, a skin infection that causes fluid build-up, should avoid compression garments as they can further aggravate the condition.
Skin allergies
Finally, it is possible to experience skin reactions or allergies to the materials used to make compression garments. This can lead to skin breaks and infection, which can be harmful for anyone, but especially those with pre-existing medical conditions. That is why it is always best to check what material the garment is made form before wearing.
To summarize compression garments can improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots, making them beneficial for pregnant women, post-op patients, and those with conditions such as varicose veins. However, caution must be taken as the wrong fit or type of compression garment can cause discomfort or pain, especially for those with underlying health conditions and patients with certain conditions should avoid wearing them completely. It is essential to consult with a medical professional first to determine if compression therapy is right for you. They’ll also be able to guide you on the right type, size, and duration of compression therapy that suit your needs.
