Boosting circulation with compression stockings
Compression stockings can help move blood up the legs to improve flow and prevent clotting and swelling. The stockings come in varying pressures—from strong to light—and in varying lengths—from knee-high to hip-high. The strongest stockings must be custom-fit and require a prescription. Lower-strength over-the-counter support and compression hose are available in pharmacies. The stockings may be used to reduce leg swelling if a person’s blood level is low, to reduce swelling from a blood clot deep in the leg veins, to prevent new clots from forming, and to treat chronic venous insufficiency.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Source matters. Subscribe to HarvardHealthOnline+ FREE for 30 days for unlimited access to the site – where all content is reviewed by an HMS physician or faculty expert.
With HHO+ you get these exclusive benefits:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
SPECIAL OFFER! UNLOCK EXPERT ACCESS for 30 days FREE!
Already a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.