If you’re dealing with varicose veins, leg swelling, or chronic venous insufficiency, you’ve probably heard about compression stockings—but what do they actually do?
Graduated compression stockings are one of the simplest, safest, and most effective non-invasive treatments for vein disease. Whether used to relieve daily discomfort or as part of a broader medical treatment plan, these specialized garments support your veins, reduce symptoms, and improve circulation.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
Graduated compression stockings are medical-grade hosiery that apply controlled pressure to your legs. The “graduated” part means that the compression is strongest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg.
This design helps:
Unlike regular tights or socks, compression stockings are specifically engineered for people with circulation issues or venous disorders.
Vein disease—like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), varicose veins, spider veins, and post-thrombotic syndrome—occurs when the valves in your veins become weak or damaged. This allows blood to flow backward and pool in the legs, causing:
Graduated compression stockings support your veins by:
Clinical studies show that regular use of compression stockings can improve symptoms, prevent progression, and even help with healing venous ulcers.
By promoting fluid return from the legs to the heart, compression stockings reduce fluid accumulation, especially after long periods of standing or sitting.
Many patients with CVI experience leg fatigue by mid-day. Graduated compression improves circulation and oxygenation, giving your legs more endurance and less pain.
While they don’t remove existing varicose veins, stockings can prevent new ones from forming and slow worsening of current ones.
In more advanced cases, compression therapy helps reduce venous stasis and supports healing of venous leg ulcers by improving oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin.
After sclerotherapy, endovenous ablation, or microphlebectomy, wearing compression stockings helps:
Compression stockings are classified by the amount of pressure they apply, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):
Compression LevelPressureBest ForMild (8–15 mmHg)Light support, travel, tired legsModerate (15–20 mmHg)Mild varicose veins, pregnancy, preventionFirm (20–30 mmHg)Chronic venous insufficiency, post-proceduresExtra firm (30–40 mmHg)Advanced CVI, leg ulcers, lymphedema
Always consult a vein specialist before choosing higher compression levels.
They’re recommended for people with:
They’re also great for:
Compression stockings are generally safe, but check with your doctor if you have:
This is when swelling is at its lowest. Sit or lie down and put them on before standing up.
Special gloves or tools can make it easier to apply stockings, especially higher-compression versions.
Elasticity wears out with time and washing. Replace as needed to maintain effectiveness.
It’s important to understand that while compression stockings relieve symptoms and slow progression, they do not treat the root cause of varicose veins or venous insufficiency.
If you have bulging veins, skin changes, or ongoing symptoms, a vein consultation is essential. Advanced treatments like endovenous ablation and sclerotherapy may be needed to restore long-term circulation.
We take a comprehensive approach to vein disease—addressing both the symptoms and the root causes. This may include:
Graduated compression stockings offer a non-invasive, affordable, and effective way to support vein function, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.
Whether you’re using them preventively or as part of a treatment plan, they can make a significant difference in daily comfort and long-term circulation health.
At Sheen Vein & Cosmetics, we’ll help you find the right compression gear—and determine if additional treatments could improve your symptoms further.
📞 Schedule your vein consultation today and take the first step toward lighter, healthier legs.