Compression Therapy for Legs (During Pregnancy?)

Compression Therapy is the mechanical principle for those suffering from varicose vein treatment, edemas, leg ulcers...
The concept of compression therapy lies on a simple and efficient mechanical principle: the application of an elastic garment around the leg.
Did you know that women in their first pregnancy will develop varicose veins in 33% of cases. And in 2nd and multiple pregnancies 55% of the time? Pregnancy will bring hormonal change, increase blood coagulation and decreased blood flow back to the heart. These factors can cause blood clots and deep vein thrombosis. Compression socks help to improve the blood flow back up to the heart and come in maternity side with a soft panel for comfort. They also come in a number of different colors. Wearing compression socks will help decrease varicose veins and will help reduce swelling and achy legs.
MECHANISM OF COMPRESSION THERAPY
By compressing the limb with graduated compression- strong at the ankle and decreasing going up the leg - a compression sock or stocking helps the venous return, decreases venous pressure, prevents venous stasis and deterioration of venous walls, and efficiently relieves aching and heavy legs.

Arteries pump blood away from the heart to the muscles. Veins bring the blood back up seeking oxygen. When the valves in the veins are defective and exacerbated by sitting or standing too long, there is pooling in the veins causing swelling and fatigue usually at the ankle and lower leg”.
This treatment is prescribed by a physician to treat phlebitis, thrombosis and aftercare following surgery, sclerotherapy and any other forms of varicose vein treatment, and also to relieve all conditions of chronic venous disease (heavy legs, varicose veins, edemas, leg ulcers). It can also be prescribed to prevent venous troubles during pregnancy and long distance travel.
Compression Socks During Pregnancy
Recommended Tips for Healthy Legs:
- MOVE: Walk, climb stairs, move your legs around the office and at home. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing which may cause leg pain and swelling.
- REFRESH YOUR LEGS: After a long tiring day, or during the hot season, refresh your legs with a cool shower. Avoid long exposure to heat like sunbathing, hot baths, sauna that may lead veins to dilate and induce swelling.
- RAISE YOUR LEGS: In order to ease the venous blood return, elevate your legs at home while sitting on the sofa or lying in bed. At the office, have a leg rest under your desk.
- EXERCISE: Regular exercise is always recommended for a healthy body. Some sports reinforce a better venous blood return: swimming, walking, biking, gymnastics, yoga. Sports associated with sudden brutal stops like tennis, squash, hockey, volley ball, basket ball are less beneficial.
- MAINTAIN A REASONABLE BODY WEIGHT: Having a healthy diet will help you keep a normal weight thus lowering leg symptoms and swelling

Gymnastic
WHAT CAN COMPRESSION SOCK DO?
Burlington Orthotic Centre’s Certified Sigvaris Fitters can help you determine the correct size for your compression needs.

Compression Socks
The compression socks can help with:
- Tiring & Aching Legs
- Swollen Ankle
- Spider Veins
- Varicose Veins
- Blood Clots
If you're pregnant remember to avoid excessive heat exposure and stay active to keep those legs healthy. Call us for your compression fitting appointment. Call Burlington Orthotic Centre today for details.
Two Locations to serve you
Burlington Orthotic Centre
905.331.4391
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Milton Orthotic & Wellness Centre
(905) 864-0555