Compression hosiery is one of the more sophisticated types of hosiery available, and has made a big difference medically for many people. Unlike traditional hosiery products, the compression is based on medical practices and not physical appearances. However, even though the purpose is remedial, this form of hosiery need not be ugly. The industry has made great strides over the last couple of years to accommodate the needs for both function and appeal.

The medically accepted way to relieve a number of circulation related ailments in the legs is with graduated compression hosiery. It is important to note that you should first consult with your physician to determine if this sort of legging is appropriate for your condition. Some leg related problems can actually be exacerbated by the hosiery. Although there are a number of rumors circulating about the advisability of using compression leggings for diabetics, you should never use compression without first consulting your doctor. The compression may actually have the reverse effect you are looking for and cause more problems than they are meant to solve.

Some of the more common situations that medical compression hosiery is meant to help are Varicose & Spider Veins, Sclerotherapy, Chronic Venous Insufficiency, Lymphedema, Pregnancy, as well as post-treatment for other conditions. Although these are all medical reason for using the support, there are also a number of other non-medical reasons for use. Some people will use the compression support hosiery to simply alleviate discomfort in the legs during travel or desk work, and have benefited from the circulation assistance that the hosiery or stockings provide.

Similarly, pregnancy is a common situation in which the women can benefit from maternity compression hosiery. During pregnancy, blood circulation is increased, and pressure on the legs is elevated. This can cause considerable discomfort for the woman, and warrants some assistance from any source possible. This type of women’s hosiery can help to ease some of the discomfort and unpleasant side effects of pregnancy.

Hosiery compression comes in a number of different levels, namely light, therapeutic, and medical grade. Each level has sublevels of support strength. The hosiery is constructed with rubber or elastic fibers that are designed to compress the limbs, and increase circulation. In graduated hosiery, the hosiery is constructed to apply graduated pressure to different areas of the leg. The ankle and foot often have the strongest pressure, and gradually decreasing up the rest of the leg. This has been clinically proven to increase blood flow to the deep veins and improve overall leg circulation.

Depending on the strength of the compression hosiery, you can either buy the stocking over the counter or through a prescription from your doctor. If you are uncertain if compression is right for you, please check with your doctor first. They will be able to help you avoid any dangerous situations that you could place yourself in. Anything in the prescription realm should be done by a licensed healthcare professional. They will be able to measure, rate, and prescribe the correct fitting hosiery for your situation.