Individuals who have a family history of spider or varicose veins may want to consider wearing compression stockings in order to maintain good circulation in the feet and legs and reduce the risk of developing these vascular conditions. At Lougheed Laser Centre, our medical team can help you decide if wearing compression stockings can be beneficial to your vascular health.

Located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Lougheed Laser Centre is led by Dr. Marcia Fleming and registered nurse Jennifer Sutherland. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if you are a candidate for compression stockings for the prevention and management of spider and varicose veins.

What are Spider and Varicose Veins?

Characterized by small clusters of dark purple or red veins or by enlarged blue veins that protrude from the skin, spider and varicose veins most commonly develop on the feet, legs and face, and can be caused by a variety of factors. As blood flow fights against gravity to make it back to the heart, insufficient circulation can cause blood to pool in the veins, causing the veins to protrude and become visible underneath the skin surface.

What are Compression Stockings?

With an appearance similar to tights or socks, compression stockings help improve and maintain circulation. By applying graduated compression that is tightest at the ankle and gradually lessens toward the knee, compression stockings help venous return by promoting efficient blood flow back up to the heart.

Compression stockings have been proven to help maintain good circulation in individuals who:

• Have a family history of spider or varicose veins
• Have careers that require extensive sitting, standing, or air travel
• Are pregnant or who are planning a pregnancy
• Are already experiencing symptoms associated with spider or varicose veins
• Have undergone vein stripping, sclerotherapy, laser vein removal, and other vascular procedures

Are Compression Stockings Comfortable?

These support socks are made of a variety of materials, including cotton, rubber, and sheer Lycra. There are also multiple colors and styles to choose from depending on your personal preference, such as socks, thigh-highs, and pantyhose. There are also maternity styles available.

Compression stockings that are the wrong size or that do not provide the right amount of compression can be uncomfortable, but at Lougheed Laser Centre, we can help. Our medical team will schedule you for a fitting, ensuring accuracy and comfort.

Can Compression Stockings Help Me?

During your consultation with our doctors and nurse, your individual condition will assessed and, if appropriate, a prescription for compression stockings will be provided for you. We will also discuss where you would prefer to order your stockings or socks from. Some choices are available at our clinic through registered nurse Jennifer Sutherland.

Contact Lougheed Laser Centre today to schedule a consultation or fitting, and find out how compression stockings can improve circulation and potentially prevent or slow the development of spider or varicose veins.