Correct sizing of your compression stockings is perhaps the most important part of compression stocking therapy for the treatment of varicose veins. Without a proper fit the stockings will not perform properly and in some cases may actually harm you. Too large, they will not provide the compression needed and will fall down or sag. Too small, they will squeeze your legs too much and will feel very uncomfortable like muscle cramps. Too small and they are very difficult to put on. So how can you assure a proper compression stocking fit? Below we will provide some insight that will help you choose the correct size.

First a few words about where you buy your compression stockings. Compression stockings are available in most pharmacies or healthcare product stores. They are also widely available online at usually a much cheaper price. Regardless of where you buy make sure you know what the return policy is. Be cautious when buying from a store or website that does not display a very clear and concise written return policy. Occasionally the only way to find a proper fitting stocking is trial and error. So, make sure they can be returned and exchanged for a different size. A stocking that does not fit properly and cannot be exchanged does no good at all.

The first step in choosing the correct size is properly measuring the leg. Most compression stocking websites will have illustrated instructions on the proper way to measure. Each stocking style will have a unique size chart for you to follow. Following these instructions and size chart will assure a proper fit in the perfect person. However, we know none of us are perfect. We come in different sizes, shapes and body proportions that may not necessarily fall within the ranges of the stocking sizes. Here are few tips for measuring your legs:

• Always measure your legs first thing in the morning.
• Always measure both legs.
• Use a correct measuring device. If you do not have a flexible tailor’s tape measure, use a ribbon or other flexible material to wrap around your leg and then lay it out on a rigid ruler.
• Make precise measurements. When wrapping your flexible measuring device around your leg wrap it snug against the skin but not too snug that it indents the skin.

Now that you have the proper precise leg measurements, it’s time to compare them to the size chart. Again, remember every stocking will have a unique size chart. Size charts are not interchangeable between compression stocking brands or styles. Compare your measurements with the chart and if your measurements fall within the range of a single size you are finished and can order that size. However frequently all the sizes do not fall within one size. For example ankle and calf measurements call for a medium size but the thigh measurements call for a large size. This is where the trial and error may come into play.

When leg measurements do not fall within a single size range there are a couple tips you can use. The first tip is to look at other compression stocking brand and styles. Some brands and style of stockings are available in only four sizes while others are available in seven sizes. The less sizes available have a greater range of measurements therefore you may be able to fit all your measurements into one size range. Another tip is to look at different styles. For example, if  your ankle and calf fit within one size range but your thigh is extremely outside the size range you may want to consider a knee high compression stocking as opposed to a thigh high stockings. If your leg measurements fall within two sizes but are very close try the smaller size stockings and see how they fit.

I hope this will help you choose the proper size when purchasing compression stockings. Sizing is critical and a proper fit is essential. If you’re still not sure what size is correct call the store or website support and talk with a stocking expert. They will help you through the process.

Varicose veins affect a huge part of the population today. Unlike the past, new technology and procedures have revolutionized the treatment of varicose veins and other venous disorders that is the most beneficial to the patient. Treatment no longer requires hospitalization or general anesthesia or down time for the patient. There are many doctors from many different specialties performing these highly technical treatments. The problem is that not all of these doctors are qualified enough to provide the patient with optimal outcomes. How do patients choose a highly qualified vein doctor? They ask certain questions and perform a little research before agreeing to become a patient.  Here we will discuss what questions to ask and where to find the information needed to make a sound decision.

Patients, or prospective patients should never be afraid to ask doctors questions. If they feel uncomfortable asking questions a family member or friend could act as a patient advocate. If the doctor is uncomfortable answering or avoids answering any questions it is a good sign he or she does not have the correct answer. When this happens it is definitely time to move on and talk with a different doctor. Chances are pretty good they are not comfortable with the technology or procedures the patient requires.

Question #1 - Is the doctor board certified in Phlebology?

 To become an ABPh diplomat, an applicant must complete the requisite training or experience qualifications, meet the continued medical education requisites, and pass a stringent certification examination offered by the American Board of Phlebology.  Certification periods are ten years and maintenance is dependent on the ability of the diplomat to display competency in four areas of assessment, evidence of professional standing, evidence of commitment to life-long learning and periodic assessment, evidence of cognitive expertise and evaluation of performance in practice. This certification can be confirmed by visiting the American Board of Phlebology web site and click on the “find a physician” button. This question can be avoided by researching first.

Question #2 – Where did they train to become a phlebologist (vein doctor)?

Believe it or not many of the doctors performing these highly technical varicose vein treatments were actually trained by a sales representative. This is not the best training because the sales representative’s main concern is selling their equipment and supplies. They do not have the patient’s safety or outcome in mind. Other older surgeons are actually still treating veins the same as they did 20 years ago and have not kept up with the advances.  The optimal vein doctor has been trained by an experienced Phlebologist who has immense experience in the technology and treatment options. Most of these Phlebologists have actually played a part in developing these new treatments. Their training involves the entire realm of vein care and treatment. They are highly concerned about patient safety and outcomes.

Question #3 – How many varicose vein procedures have they performed and how many complications have they encountered?

This is a very significant question and should be answered with semi-detailed answer. Do not accept answers such as several, some, a lot, or many. A varicose vein doctor should be able to give you an estimated number answer like about 10, over 50, or at least 100 or something like that. This is important because of the learning curve that is essential to become proficient in performing the latest and technical treatment procedures. You want to choose a phlebologist that has perfected his or her technique.  This may produce a better outcome. Also is it important to ask about complications and how many they have encountered. This question may very well produce a general answer such as a few but the important fact you need is that they know what complications that may occur and they know how to treat them. Also find out if they would be the doctor treating any complication that may occur or would an additional doctor do this.

Question #4 – Where will venous treatments procedures be performed?

Varicose vein treatments used today are developed to be performed in the doctor’s office or clinic. They do not require a hospital setting or general anesthesia (going to sleep).  There are two reasons why a doctor may make use of the hospital to provide these procedures. The first reason is that they do not possess the necessary equipment such as a laser and the ultrasound machine and will utilize equipment and supplies provided by the hospital and/or sales representative.  The second reason may be that they do not have the necessary skills to perform the ultrasound examination required and will make use of the hospital ultrasound technician.  Regardless of the reason using the hospital facility indicates that this doctor is not fully dedicated to acquire the necessary equipment or skills to provide optimum care for the patient. It also indicates that they do not perform very many of these procedures to make it cost effective to invest in the specialized equipment.

The use of general anesthesia should never be indicated for any varicose vein procedure. This is an unnecessary risk to the patient. Always avoid a doctor who insists on general anesthesia. Insisting on general anesthesia may indicate the doctor does not want you to be conscious during the procedure. This may be because they take a very long time to complete the procedure, usually due to the inexperience, and the patient will become uncomfortable remaining still for so long. Most vein treatment procedures can be completed by a qualified Phlebotomist in about 30 minutes or less. Neither is a good indication of a competent phlebotomist.

Question #5 – What services do they provide?

A phlebotomist who is devoted to the treatment of varicose veins will provide a full regiment of services for diagnosing and treating all venous disorders. Diagnostic services must include the Doppler ultrasound examination necessary to find the root cause of the problem. This ultrasound service is also very important for varicose vein laser treatment so it is significant that the doctor is skillful in using this tool. A vein doctor that is dedicated to the practice of treating varicose veins should provide the full spectrum of the most up to date treatments. Treatments include compression stocking therapy, Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLT), sclerotherapy, trans dermal treatment of spider veins and micro phlebectomy. Doctors who do not offer all these services may opt to send the patient to other doctors for specific treatments. Patients should be conscious of this.

Question #6 – Do They Have a Website

Doctors who are dedicated to the treatment of varicose veins will always have a web site dedicated to vein disorders. This is the place where they can offer patients and prospective patients information about the doctor and their vein practice. Actually a visit to the vein clinic’s web site may also answer many of these questions for the patient before they even set up an initial appointment.  A vein doctor’s web site should have information about the doctor, the staff, their location and contact information and the services offered.

In conclusion it is very important that these questions and any other questions patients may have be asked when choosing a qualified and dedicated vein doctor. Again, never be fearful to ask these questions. Qualified vein doctors welcome them because it gives them a opportunity to brag about their qualifications and doctors like to do that. Unqualified or undertrained doctors who do vein procedures may not respond well to these questions and try to evade answering them. Patients should avoid these doctors. With these 6 simple questions and a little research patients can be assured the best care possible with a most favorable result for their vein disorders.

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Compression Stockings Are Beneficial for Travelers

Wearing compression stockings when traveling long distances either by Airplane or auto may help prevent a potential life threatening medical condition known as deep venous thrombosis (DVT).  Deep venous thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in the deep vein of the lower leg. This condition occurs frequently when taking trips that require a person to remain seated in a confined space for long periods of time. DVT that occurs when traveling by airplane is referred to as Economy Class Syndrome.  Economy Class Syndrome occurs in 3 – 5% of airplane passengers.

DVT can be fatal if the blood clot breaks free and travels through the venous system and becomes lodged in the lungs causing a condition known as pulmonary embolism which requires immediate medical treatment. DVT usually have no or subtle symptoms such as dull ache or cramping of the calf. People who have had previous DVT or cardiovascular disease are highly susceptible to develop another DVT.  However healthy people may also develop a DVT when traveling.

Steps can be taken to help prevent a DVT while traveling. Wearing compression stockings and is recommended by the American Heart Association to help the blood flow in the lower legs. These stockings put sequential pressure on the calf muscles that the blood in the veins of the lower leg be pumped back to the heart. Other preventative measures that may help are drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol intake. Another preventative measure is performing leg exercises that can be done while remaining seated. High risk patients should consult their physician before traveling as they may need a blood thinning medicine to prevent a DVT.

Although not widely known the potential of DVT is real and every traveler should be aware of this life threatening venous condition.  People who are planning a long trip should seriously consider wearing compression while traveling.

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Getting Insurance Reimbursement for Your Compression Stockings

Patients who suffer from varicose veins or other venous disorders may be required to wear compression stockings as part of their treatment. Compression stockings can be expensive; however they may be covered by your medical coverage. When buying stockings online patients must pay for the stockings first then pursue reimbursement from the insurance company.

Not all insurance companies will cover compression stockings even when prescribed by a physician. However many will. An example is Medicare Plan B will not cover compression stockings but many Medicare Supplement plans will. Patients are sometimes intimated by these big insurance companies and simply will not pursue reimbursement.  Obtaining reimbursement can be relatively simple. The key is to follow the insurance company’s rules. The following will help the patient obtain reimbursement for their compression stockings.

If you are a Veteran and have VA benefits who should contact your local Veterans’ Affairs office and inquire if they will cover the purchase of compression stockings. They will have their own set of rules that may include purchase from a registered contractor for the Federal Government. The Laser Vein Center.com is a registered contractor.

First, contact your insurance company before you buy any compression stockings. The phone number of the customer service department of your insurance company can be found of your insurance card.  Each insurance company has their own set of rules for what they will cover. These rules may include certain compression levels they will cover (most will not cover compression stocking levels under 20-30 mmHg), how many pairs they will cover and weather a written prescription from your physician is required.

After obtaining this information, ask about the reimbursement process. Most insurance companies have a specific reimbursement form that the patient must complete. If you need some help with this contact your physician’s office for help. Obtain the reimbursement form as well as a list of required documents that are needed for reimbursement. These may include a receipt for the compression stockings and/or a written prescription from your physician. Confirm with your insurance if they will accept a copy of these documents or is the original is required. Either way always keep copies of all documents including the reimbursement form.

You are now ready to purchase your compression stockings.  Be sure to buy the stockings that are required by your insurance company. If this happens to be different from your physician’s prescription contact your physician. They will often change their prescription to meet the insurance requirements.  Always buy stockings at a reputable store or online web site.  When buying online make sure the site has a contact phone number where you can call and ask questions or assure you will receive the proper receipt. Never buy from a web site that does not provide a contact phone number.

After the insurance formed is completed and required documentation is received send all to your insurance company at the address stated of the form. Remember always keep a copy. Mail your documents by U S Mail and require a signature confirmation (frequently these forms are never received by the insurance company) in order to confirm they received them.  You will receive notice of either payment or denial within 30 days. If you are denied reimbursement for your compression stockings, call the insurance company and ask to speak to a supervisor and ask why.  Keep pursuing the insurance company until you are satisfied with the reimbursement you are due.

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The Modern Medical Compression Stockings

Today’s medical compression stockings are not like the ones your grandmother wore. Gone are the days where you have to sacrifice elegance when wearing compression stockings. With modern manufacturing technologies compression stockings today can look as elegant and sheer as any top of the line stocking or pantyhose. Designed for comfort and looks, compression stockings can be worn all day, every day while providing your legs with therapeutic compression needed to maintain healthy legs.

Manufacturers of compression stockings have combined the use of modern technologies and materials to produce a wide variety of compression stockings. Compression stockings are available in various styles ranging from knee high and thigh high compression stockings, pantyhose and compression stockings specifically made for maternity use. Compression stockings are available in a wide variety of colors to match any wardrobe. No more the need to cover unsightly compression stockings when out in public.  Colors include black, beige, navy, white, ivory, bronze and more.

Compression stockings manufactured today are made from the newest materials available. Highly sophisticated polyesters, polymers and synthetic spandex are used to make compression stockings today. The vast majority of compression stockings are latex free and are non allergenic.  These new material also afford extra comfort for prolong use.

The choices in compression stockings are greater than ever. Gone are the days where the choices were compression levels only. The major manufacturers have produced many different lines of compression stockings in all compression levels to choose from.  Jobst compression stockings are available in casual, athletic, sensi foot and ultra sheer lines. Sigvaris compression stockings come in several lines including sheer fashion and classic dress while Medivan compression stocking company carry the choices of elegance and their newest line of sheer and soft compression stocking. Juzo compression stockings also have are available in several line. New companies are also coming into the compression stockings market providing even more choices.

With many companies providing many different styles of compression stockings the choices are practically unlimited. Various web sites like http://www.thelaserveincenter.com  afford the convenience of comparing many styles and brands of compression stockings in one place. Prices can also be compared between brands. Today’s compression is widely available from the comforts of you home with these one stop shopping sites.

With modern styles, colors, and sheerness of compression stockings healthy legs are no longer the major chore that your grandmother endured. Today’s compression stockings no longer need to be covered or only worn at home. With the sheerness, styles and colors available compression stockings can be worn for any occasion with any dress from casual to formal apparel.

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Varicose veins may be more than a cosmetic concern

 Although they may be ugly in appearance, varicose veins may have a serious impact on the general public’s quality of life. This is generally because vein disease affects the younger working population. Approximately one third of the population between the ages of 18 – 64 suffers from varicose veins that may be caused by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).  This medical disease may cause chronic pain in the legs and inhibit patients from standing for long periods of time. Other symptoms including fatigue, heaviness, aching, burning, throbbing, cramping, itching, and restlessness of the legs may preclude patients from performing their daily jobs. Patients suffering with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) often must rest to alleviate the symptoms.

Failure to recognize varicose veins as a medical disease by the patient as well as many family doctors may often lead to neglect proper treatment. Without proper treatment of varicose veins may advance the disease to reach end stage CVI. This may include venous stasis dermatitis, chronic brawny leg edema, phlebitis, hemorrhage, or ulceration. The manifestation of these end stage conditions will require additional treatment and rehabilitation for the patient. Therefore, it is critical that patients with varicose veins be examined and evaluated by a qualified phlebologist.

New endovenous technologies have revolutionized the treatment of varicose veins and CVI. Patients no longer require an operation with general anesthesia, scarring, and prolonged rehabilitation to treat this disease. Endovenous procedures may be performed in the physician’s office by a qualified phlebologist. The entire procedure requires only a needle puncture and leaves no scarring. The patient may return to normal activity immediately following the procedure.

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Compression Stockings Can Prevent Post Thrombotic Syndrome

The use of compression stockings by patients after treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been found to prevent post thrombotic syndrome (PTS).  Recent studies published in medical journals and professional web sites such as the “Annals of Internal Medicine”, “American Family Physician”, “American College of Physicians, and the “American College of Phlebology” have shown that compression stockings prevent post thrombotic syndrome in 50% of patients.

Post thrombotic syndrome is a long term complication of DVT that is experienced by 1 out of 3 patients. The symptoms include pain, swelling, cramping, numbness, tingling, and itching of the affected leg. The skin on the lower part of the leg may harden and darken. PTS symptoms may last for years. PTS may affect 50% of patients with DVT after 2 years.

The American College of Clinical Pharmacy recommends the use of compression stockings after the onset of a DVT. They recommend that patients wear the compression stockings for two years after initial onset of DVT. Below knee compression stockings with a compression level of 30-40 mmHg should be routinely prescribed to all patients in this group. With more patients with DVT is being treated on an outpatient basis by emergency department physicians, it is imperative that patients are prescribed knee high compression stockings upon discharge. Compression stockings are not contraindicated in combination of anticoagulant medication.

The positive clinical outcomes of wearing compression stockings are dependent on patient compliance. This is true for all medical indications of stocking use. A recent study on patient compliance by C.L. Morgan, et al concluded that patients with detailed instructions and education about compression therapy become more compliant with the prescribed treatment. It is important for the prescribing physician to educate the patient on where to find this detailed information or present it them personally. Many websites can adequately supply the patient with all the detailed information and education needed for upmost compliance.

Compression stockings are widely available today. They come in many colors and styles for everyday use. One of the best places to buy compression stockings is from the premium online retailers. There you can find a variety of styles of colors of stockings at a reduced price.  Shipping is fast and affordable and the prices are usually less than the pharmacies or health care stores. Patients can also find useful information about compression stocking information such as how to measure their leg for stocking size, how to don stockings, how to care for stockings, and much more.

For more information on the various scientific studies that confirm that the use of compression stockings can reduce post thrombotic syndrome in patients who experience DVT visit www.thelaserveincenter.com or the American College of Phlebology at www.phelbology.org or consult a local phlebologist.  

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Compression Stockings – How Do They Work?

Compression stockings could be called the savior for your legs. But just how do compression stockings work? Why do they make your legs feel so good? How are they different than regular hosiery or support stockings?  Compression stockings are becoming more popular today for the pure therapy of tired achy and sore legs. They are used to alleviate these symptoms of everyday activities. Let’s take a look at how compression stockings work and why they help so much.

Let’s begin by understanding human anatomy and gravity. To be more precise let’s understand, the anatomy of the veins in our legs and how they function. Leg veins consist of two separate systems; the deep venous system and the superficial venous system. They are responsible for returning blood along with waste products to the heart. The blood is carried or pumped through veins by contraction of skeletal muscles and gravity. When we walk or exercise our legs the contraction of the leg muscles actually move the blood through the veins. When we are at rest the blood in our veins flows only by gravity. Since our legs are lower than our heart the blood essentially stops flowing or flows backwards at rest.  To prevent this backwards flow, veins have one way valves that prevent this. When these valves fail they allow the blood to flow backwards and pool in the lower legs. This causes the veins to dilate and develop varicose veins.

When blood in the leg veins flow backward or stops flowing due to inactivity the waste products and excess fluids from the tissues remain in the leg instead of being carried away. This is the reason for tired, achy and swollen legs after long periods of inactivity such as sitting or standing in one position for long periods of time.

Compression stockings are designed to act like artificial muscles regardless of activity or inactivity. Compression stockings create compression of the muscle in the leg to force the blood to flow against gravity. This is achieved by the graduated pressure level built into all compression stocking.  Compression stockings are manufactured in different compression levels which indicate the graduation of compression they produce. For example a compression level of 15-20 mmHg indicates that the compression level at the ankle is 20 mmHg and gradually declines to a compression level of 15 at the top. This graduation of compression acts as a massaging affect on the leg muscles and promotes the blood flow.

Compression stockings are different than support stockings due to the graduated compression levels. Support stocking simply support the leg muscles while compression stockings actually massage the leg muscles.

Whit a better understanding of how compression stockings work you can educated decision next time you need a product that will actually help alleviate tired, achy or swollen legs at the end of the day.  The purchase of compression stockings instead of support hosiery is a much better choice.