Compression Therapy for Varicose Veins: What You Need to Know


 

Varicose veins are more than just a cosmetic concern. Those bulging, twisted veins on your legs or feet can cause pain, swelling, and fatigue—especially after long hours of sitting or standing.

One of the most recommended non-invasive treatments is compression therapy. But how exactly does it work, and is it the right choice for you? Let’s break it down.

 

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins happen when vein valves become weak or damaged, causing blood to pool in the legs. This leads to enlarged, dark purple or blue veins that are often visible under the skin.

Common symptoms include:

  • Leg or ankle swelling

  • Heaviness or achiness in the legs

  • Itching around veins

  • Skin discoloration

  • Pain that worsens with prolonged standing or sitting

Left untreated, varicose veins may progress to conditions like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), venous ulcers, or even blood clots.

 

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Several factors can increase your risk of developing varicose veins:

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Obesity

  • Pregnancy

  • Aging

  • High blood pressure in the veins

 

What Is Compression Therapy?

Compression therapy is often the first line of treatment for mild-to-moderate varicose veins. It involves wearing specially designed compression socks, stockings, wraps, or inflatable garments that apply gentle pressure to the legs.

This pressure improves circulation, reduces swelling, and prevents blood from pooling in the veins.

Benefits of compression therapy include:
✅ Less leg pain and heaviness
✅ Reduced swelling in feet and ankles
✅ Better blood flow to the heart
✅ Lower risk of blood clots
✅ Support for healing ulcers

 

Types of Compression Therapy

1. Compression Socks

Available in ankle, calf, or knee-high lengths. Pressure levels are measured in mmHg:

  • Mild (below 20 mmHg): Over-the-counter, no prescription needed

  • Moderate (20–30 mmHg): Prescription recommended

  • High (30+ mmHg): Prescription required for severe cases

2. Compression Stockings

Extend up to the knee or thigh. They are snug but should not feel painfully tight.

3. Velcro Wraps & Bandages

Ideal for those who struggle with socks. These wraps are adjustable and easy to use.

4. Inflatable Garments

Often used by athletes to improve circulation and recovery.

 

Can Compression Therapy Cure Varicose Veins?

Compression garments manage symptoms but do not remove varicose veins. For permanent solutions, treatments such as:

  • Sclerotherapy

  • Varithena®

  • Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)

  • Ambulatory Phlebectomy

 

Originally Published: Compression Therapy for Varicose Veins




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