What Is Gradient Compression Hosiery And Who Is It For?

Compression garments are sleeves or stockings that are worn on different parts of the body in order to improve circulation and reduce swelling. Some garments provide a consistent level of pressure throughout the fabric. Gradient compression hosiery varies the level of pressure in order to move blood upwards and away from the feet. Doctors commonly prescribe the sleeves and hosiery for conditions like lymphedema. They are also sold over the counter for swelling that is associated with pregnancy or other factors. Anyone who is experience pain or swelling in the legs will want to understand how this type of hosiery works.

Gradient Compression And Circulation

The primary benefit of gradient compression garments is improved circulation. Blood in the feet, legs and even the arms is pulled downward by gravity. This blood can actually pool in the feet, ankles and legs. This causes inflammation and painful swelling over time. It could even contribute to the development of conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in certain individuals. Blood often pools in these areas because of issues with the valves located in the veins. The blood does not reach these valves and cannot move upwards against gravity back to the heart. Gradient compression hosiery places pressure on the feet and legs. This helps to force the blood back up into the veins where it can reenter the normal circulatory system.

Pregnancy And Swelling

Women undergo a number of biological changes during pregnancy in order to support the growing fetus. One of these changes is an increase in fluid production in order to deliver nutrients to the fetus. Fluids in the body normally pass into the circulatory system and then into the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system moves the fluids out of the body. The excess fluids produced during pregnancy do not leave the body as quickly. The fluids move downwards because of gravity and are absorbed into the tissue of the legs and feet. This causes the swelling or edema. Gradient compression hosiery like maternity tights provides pressure to the lower extremities so that it is more difficult for the tissue to retain fluids.

Inactivity

Gradient compression hosiery can help anyone who needs to be inactive for long periods of time. Standing or sitting in one position for several hours will give the tissue in the feet and ankles the chance to absorb fluids. Pregnant women who are resting often experience this problem even if the body is not producing excess fluids. The swelling can sometimes be relieved by changing positions on a regular basis. This encourages the normal flow of blood and moves fluids away from the feet. Compression garments will relieve swelling in individuals who cannot easily change positions throughout the day.

Pain From Standing Or Walking

Women who are pregnant or carrying extra weight often experience pain in the legs and ankles after standing or working for several hours. This is not necessarily related to just swelling. The lack of circulation that results in these instances can reduce the amount of oxygen delivered to the muscles in the legs. This causes the production of acids and other chemicals that result in cramping and pain. Gradient compression hosiery improves circulation even when a person is not moving. This increased circulation delivers more oxygen and other nutrients to the muscles. It also allows the acids and other substances to be removed from the muscles preventing accumulations that normally cause pain.

The mild swelling that occurs during pregnancy is a natural occurrence. It is not normally harmful although it can be uncomfortable. Gradient compression hosiery provides a simple way to reduce swelling on a daily basis. The hosiery is easy to use and can be worn for the entire day. Modern hosiery looks just like any other pair of stockings and will not interfere with shoes or clothing.