Categories For Patients and Caregivers

Gradient Compression Stockings: An Ounce of Prevention

Allevio is now pleased to offer a varied selection of gradient compression hosiery to its clients.  Evidence, such as this published study in the British Journal of Dermatology, shows that while the amount time a patient spends in compression socks (for example) may vary in terms of its impact, there is no question that they help with certain conditions (outlined below).These specialized garments are integral in the prevention and remedy of a myriad of venous disorders   including edema, varicose veins, and thrombosis.
How Compression Hosiery works:
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To understand how compression stockings can help certain disorders, understand what the disorders are: Blood flow in the body is regulated by a series of arteries, which carry blood away from the heart, and veins, which transport blood back to the heart. Arteries and veins comprise valves  which temper blood flow by opening and closing at regular intervals. However, when a valve is damaged or collapses, it loses its elasticity and its ability to close properly. The result is a decrease in arterial pressure. It becomes difficult for blood to be transported back to the heart and instead, blood pools gather in the lower extremities, including our legs and ankles. This can lead to pain, swelling, varicose veins and even blood clots! This is where compression stockings prove beneficial. Unlike normal socks, they comprise stronger elastics. They are designed to be tightest at the ankle and looser toward to the top of the garment. By placing a significant amount of pressure on the legs and ankles, compression stockings compress the surface veins so that arterial pressure increases and blood flow toward the heart is regulated. Some individuals may require more pressure to be exerted on their legs than others. Allevio offers stockings in a number of different pressure gradients to accommodate this.
Who can benefit from Gradient Compression Hosiery:
The following conditions can be successfully treated using compression stockings:

While patients suffering from any of the above listed conditions may be excellent candidates for compression stockings, all should keep in mind that these garments can also be used  as a preventative measure against them. Whatever your lifestyle, however active or sedentary, Allevio is proud to offer a wide range of versatile, high-quality, fashionable hosiery for both men and women in a number of different lengths, textures and colors. One of the compression lines we carry, Jobst, has a website with further information on some of the products.
Call or visit our office to arrange a fitting with one of our expert staff and select the sock that’s right for you today!

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