Combating Uncomfortable Legs Sep:10

Whether you’re a 20-something hair stylist standing on your feet all day, a middle-aged office worker sitting at a desk for prolonged periods or a senior taking a cross-country vacation, some of the uncomfortable symptoms you may have experienced include itching, heaviness in the legs, cramps and leg swelling; and restlessness and night discomfort.

In industrialized nations like Canada, it is estimated that 40 - 55% of the population may be affected by venous disorder, a condition that involves abnormalities or diseased veins in the legs that slow down the blood flow back to the heart. Venous disorders increase with age but lifestyle and genetics play a significant role. While heredity is the number one cause of venous disorders, other contributing factors include prolonged sitting or standing, too little physical exercise and lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Hormonal effects from birth control and pregnancy can also be factors.

Early warning signs that may suggest you should see your doctor include tired, heavy or swollen legs; tingling cramps or swollen ankles; or ruptured small veins immediately below the skin of the calf or thigh, often appearing like a web-like maze.

Compression Stockings Can Help

Compression stockings are the non-surgical solution for leg discomfort. The stockings help improve blood flow in the legs by exerting external pressure on the legs, reducing swollen veins and enhancing upward blood flow. Graduated compression stockings have the most compression in the ankle area, with a compression profile that decreases as it goes up the leg. If you’re experiencing mild venous issues such as tired and aching legs, an over-the-counter compression stocking can be beneficial and provide effective relief. In more advanced disease conditions such as visibly swollen veins or leg swelling, it is best to see a physician who will determine an appropriate prescription for a specific compression profile stocking. Prescription stockings are often covered by insurance.

Granny Hose Be Gone

Gone are the days of compression hosiery looking like beige canvas and fire hose. In the last ten years, there have been many innovations in the yarns used and today compression stockings can be purchased in a wide variety of fashionable colors and range of styles. Moisture-wicking yarns are now available that improve breathability and allow a cooler, more comfortable wearing stocking for any season. In addition, the once-common challenge of getting compression stockings on and off has been greatly reduced by the utilization of high quality materials such as Lycra.