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Tag: spider vein treatment

What are Compression Socks For Men?

Did you know that compression socks for men are important? We know that when you imagine compression socks, some unattractive images come to mind. And most of them involve little old ladies. But, these days, compression socks for men and women come in all styles!  And, more importantly they support your vein health in many ways. Therefore, we need to take a closer look at the real deal with compression socks.

Who are Compression Socks Designed For?

So many people can benefit from wearing compression socks. People who frequently travel by airplane; pregnant women; people with varicose veins; individuals who must stay on their feet all day for work…even runners looking to boost their performance may be helped by wearing these socks.

For most people, compression socks help improve circulation to fight vascular conditions like lymphedema, varicose veins and/or chronic venous insufficiency. Still, some athletes choose to wear compression socks. And they do so without experiencing vascular issues, because they can help lower limb swelling.

Because wearing compression socks can also speed up recovery time after a hard training session thanks to the boost they give your blood flow. Plus, compression socks can increase your endurance. (They work to keep your legs from getting too tired.) They may also relieve the pain of aching joints, and help support your muscles and improve your balance.

How Do Compression Socks Work Their Magic?

Compression socks are made from stretchy, snug fabric designed to squeeze your legs and ankles tightly. That squeezing action works with the muscles in your calves to keep blood pumping out of your lower extremities and back up to your heart,  improving blood circulation, and cutting back on pooling blood and potential swelling.

Different styles of socks deliver different pressure—and different results—to your body. There are two main types of compression socks: graded and anti-embolism. Our vein specialists can help you decide what type is right for your needs. But anti-embolism socks are meant for patients confined to their beds. So, while these compression socks may be important if you’re in the hospital, they probably aren’t for you. .

Now, remember: graded compression socks are most common. But there are still choices. Because they come in different lengths, meaning shorter styles will have less of an impact on your legs. They are deliver varying degrees of pressure, measured in mmHg. If your vein doctor has recommended compression socks, it’s important to sit down and discuss the style, length and mmHg levels that your specific condition requires.

Where Can I Get Compression Socks?

Here’s the good news: compression socks are really easy to get a hold of. You can find them in a number of places: the drug store, our offices (or your primary healthcare providers). Heck, you can even get them online!

Bare in mind that online or in stores, you may not enjoy the widest selection available. Also, the pressure rating may not be sufficient to meet your vein health needs. So, what’s the best way to get what you need out of your stockings? See your vein specialists and score a prescription for compression socks. That way, you’ll be sure that the pair you receive is ideally suited for your specific needs. Plus, with a medical prescription, you may be able to use insurance to cover the cost of your stockings.

Do you have questions about how compression socks can benefit your vascular health? Or how you can obtain a prescription for your compression stockings? Just schedule a consultationschedule a consultationschedule a consultation with one of our Houston and Dallas area vein specialists!

5 Reasons Why Fall is Varicose Vein Treatment Season

Have you been thinking about varicose vein treatment? That is perfect, because now’s a great time! While it may not have cooled down much outside, fall is here. And, with its arrival comes a new item to put on your to-do list: treat those varicose veins! Here are the top five reasons why fall is the right time to treat those bulging, twisted signs of venous insufficiency.

Why is Fall a Great Time for Varicose Vein Treatment?

1. You have more time Varicose Veins Exercise

Between the constant activity and summer break and the holidays, fall is the perfect time to follow post-treatment restriction on exercise and strenuous movement. Sending the kids to school each day can also allow you the opportunity to lie down and put your legs up following treatment.

2. Insurance is easier

By the time fall comes around, many people have already met most or all of their insurance deductibles. But, October and November is not so late in the calendar year that you won’t have time to secure a vein treatment pre-authorization, if that’s what your insurance carrier requires. And our Houston vein specialists accept most insurance plans, so you should be in the clear by this time of year.

3. The clothing and compression won’t be as much of a problem.

After spider-vein treatment, you will likely need to wear compression stockings for up to a month to minimize any bruising, pain or swelling and to help improve blood flow in your legs. It’s a lot more comfortable to wear these stockings after the heat of summer has passed, especially if you also want to cover them up with long pants.

4. The sun is less prominent

Did you know that UV rays can contribute to the development of varicose veins? And, even after undergoing treatment, sun exposure can slow down your recovery process or cause the skin in your healing legs to become discolored? That’s why you will need to avoid direct sun exposure for up to a month following vein treatment, and it’s why the fall is a much smarter time to begin the vein-treatment process.

5. You’ll be ready for the holidays.

Once Thanksgiving comes, you’ll be facing a mad rush of shopping and celebrating. That will be the case, even if the holidays look a little different this year. Now, if you seek varicose vein treatment earlier in the fall, here’s the best news we can offer. By the time you hit the holiday season, you should be mostly done with your recovery process. Which means that you can sit, stand and celebrate your way through the festivities. All without worrying about the look or feelings coming from those twisted, painful, varicose veins!

Sources: La Jolla Light

 

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