The use of compression in the treatment of venous diseases is not a new idea.
In fact, the origins of compression date back to the beginning of mankind. Mural paintings, in the Tassili caves in the Sahara, are the oldest known illustrations of what is believed to be compression dressings for lymphedema, dating back to the Neolithic Age (5000 – 2500 B.C) As depicted by the sculpting of the large, tortuous vein; venous disease is not a new problem. Venous disorders date back many centuries; probably from the day man first stood to walk.
Compression stockings have existed for more than 100 years
The laced-up stocking, made of dog leather, was designed by Richard Wiseman, Sargeant Surgeon to King Charles II. It was Wiseman that developed the term "Varicose ulcer" and introduced what was at the time a new method of compressing the leg affected by such an ulcer. The garment was applied loose, from ankle to knee, then laced tightly to compress the leg and eliminate edema. Towards the end of the 18th century, laced-up stockings were made of linen.
The first compression stockings were made in England. William Brown designed the first elastic stockings in 1848. The stockings were made on flat frames and the parts were joined together to make a stocking, resulting in unsightly seams and clients had to wait a significant amount of time before receiving their garments. Today's modern design and construction of circular knit garments makes compression stockings more comfortable and effective.
Definition of Compression Therapy
Compression therapy is the application of controlled graduated external pressure to the limb to reduce venous pressure within the limb. By doing this, the blood flow velocity is improved and restored to normal. Wearing compression will reduce the swelling in the lower extremity by aiding the valves in the veins to close which, in turn, moves blood flow up the leg against the pull of gravity. It is important that the compression be graduated with the strongest pressure at the ankle and decreasing up the leg. It's like squeezing a tube of toothpaste. If you squeeze in the middle, toothpaste moves both up and down the tube. When you squeeze at the bottom of the tube, the toothpaste moves up the tube toward the top. You want your blood to flow up the leg toward the lungs and heart for re-circulation. The compression level you need may be prescribed by your physician. The more serious the vascular disease, the higher your compression level. Many people wear a lower compression (15-20 mmHg) every day to aid in the venous blood flow and prevent swelling of the ankles and tired, achy legs. Preventative strength compression stockings (15-20 mmHg) do not require a prescription and are available for over-the-counter purchase.
Note: please consult your physician with health questions. Only your physician will be able to assess your condition and prescribe the most effective treatment.
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