Many medical items are available without a prescription, and compression stockings for varicose vein treatment are no exception. For a person suffering from varicose veins in a temporary sense, such as while pregnant, these less expensive and less efficient compression stockings may be a better value than the prescription varieties. This might also be true for someone that is mildly affected and is able to cope by modifying her daily routine.
After a Doctor's Visit
For people who are suffering with a more severe case of varicose veins, where compression stockings are suggested by their doctors, stockings will often be prescribed. These stockings will often need to be purchased at a medical supply store or at a full service pharmacy. The compression stockings for varicose vein treatment will often range in price from about $50 to $100, depending on the size and style. Some stockings resemble pantyhose and tend to cost a bit more, while others are more like a sock or sleeve for the leg, and will cost considerably less.
How the Stocking Works
When thinking of varicose veins and compression stockings, it may seem that the restriction on the leg by the stocking would deliver the opposite of the desired result. The fact is that the stocking tightens the most at the ankle, and gradually delivers less tension as it stretches over the knee and towards the thigh. The result becomes the forcing of blood along its natural course despite the damage to the veins. The Stockings are not indestructible however, and even the prescription stockings will need to be replaced after a few months of regular use.
When to Use the Stocking
When treating varicose veins with compression stockings, some people may need to wear them all day for all activities if the discomfort is severe enough. In these cases, the compression stockings for varicose veins may actually have little effect other than alleviating the pain and feeling of heaviness in the leg. For mild to moderate cases, compression stockings and varicose vein treatments are most useful for sedentary times of the day, when standing or walking to increase circulation is not possible.
Stockings as a Treatment
Varicose veins and compression stockings are an inexpensive and effective duo that could save a person from surgery, or help them to recover more quickly after a surgery. The compression stockings increase circulation, and with diet, exercise, and some other behavior modifications could eliminate the need for surgery for some people altogether.
