Deep vein thrombosis, abbreviated as DVT, is a condition in which a clot of blood called a thrombus is formed deeper into the veins usually those present in the legs. The condition is characterized by severe pain and swelling in the legs which is often associated with reddened skin color. Larger clots, in some cases, result in fatalities due to heart attack or stoppage of breathing.
As a management and prevention tool, compression socks are often recommended by doctors to patients suffering from DVT or at risk of developing thrombi in their veins. Based on this recommendation, the impact of a compression sock on the treatment of DVT is often questioned. In this article, we will take a closer look at the link between the two.
How does a Compression Sock Work?
When worn, compression socks work by applying a moderate amount of pressure on the tissues as well as the veins. This way, blood flow through the veins is optimized which results in the relief of pain and also reduces swelling. In addition, overall fatigue is also minimized and the chances of the formation of blood clots are also lessened.
Impact of compression socks on the prevention and treatment of DVT
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 900,000 people living in the United States are affected by deep vein thrombosis every year. Keeping this in mind, there is a need for the tools to not only treat but also to prevent the condition. Being one such tool, compression socks have been studied for their efficacy in patients with DVT.
● According to a study published in The American Journal of Medicine in 2016, randomized controlled trials were conducted on 1418 people to evaluate the effectiveness of wearing elastic compression stockings for either prevention or treatment of DVT. The findings of the study have indicated that compression socks do not significantly reduce pain and swelling in patients with post-thrombotic syndrome. However, their effectiveness as a preventive tool has been confirmed to an extent.
● In a similar study published in the Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension, subjects were divided into 4 groups. Two groups were tested with the use of compression socks along with the administration of anticoagulant medications to prevent the formation of blood clots. The other two were given medications alone. The results showed that people who took medications to prevent deep vein thrombosis in addition to the use of compression socks did not develop blood clots at all thus indicating the efficacy of compression socks.
Compression Socks: Brands and Specifications
Among multiple brands that manufacture and market compression socks, the following are considered the best items:
Jobst ActiveWear Compression Socks
7515705 Jobst active wear compression socks come in denim blue color and are large in size. These are particularly useful for those who have an active lifestyle. Along with being medical-grade graduated to perform their job at their best, these Jobst compression socks are stylish as well. These can be used to improve circulation, lessen fatigue, and keep the limbs active and energized. The level of compression provided with these socks is 20 to 30 mmHg which is optimum for keeping the blood flowing at the required level. Moreover, the construction material is moisture-wicking fabric which keeps the feet dry and comfortable.
Jobst Knee High Compression Socks
Jobst knee-high compression socks come with a brocade pattern and in black color. The yarn used to make these socks is smooth and soft which increases the user’s comfort. To secure the fit, a knee band is also present. Compression pressure is 15 to 20 mmHg and has a gradient compression system which has been designed according to the physician’s recommendations. Moreover, the product has a reinforced sole which provides extra comfort to the heels. The product is available in both open-toe and closed-toe forms.
BSN Jobst ActiveWear Firm Support Socks
110492 BSN Jobst activewear firm support socks come in white color and extra-large size. It is made with 20% nylon, 9% spandex, 11% cotton, and 60% polyester. BSN Jobst compression socks can be worn by both males and females. Dri-release technology employed in the construction of BSN Jobst socks keeps the feet dry and comfortable. Moreover, these socks can be worn throughout the day. In addition, these socks can also control foot odor.
BSN Medical Active Wear Socks Full Calf
110529 BSN Medical active-wear socks are ideal for those who have an active lifestyle. Apart from the above-mentioned qualities, these are comfortable to wear, mask the bad odor of the feet, and are flexible enough to move with ease.
The compression socks mentioned in this article, along with many other medical supplies, can be purchased from Health Supply 770, a reliable name when it comes to medical products. They have a 30-day money-back guarantee and provide your products to you in the shortest possible time. Click the link at the end of the article to check the wide range of compression socks on the website.
Conclusion
The use of compression socks is often recommended by physicians for people who are prone to deep vein thrombosis. These socks grip the leg tissue in a way that an ample amount of pressure is applied to the veins.
As a result, blood circulation is optimized and pain and inflammation are reduced. Compression socks may not completely alleviate the condition but are indeed an effective tool for the management and prevention of deep vein thrombosis.
Multiple brands of compression socks are available in the US market but while purchasing these, along with any other kind of medical devices, reliable vendors like Health Supply 770 should be approached to ensure the provision of quality products along with satisfactory services.
Click to Order from Health Supply 770
References
https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/data.html
http://www.bcpodiatrists.ca/pdfs/Compression%20Stockings%20for%20Preventing%20the.pdf
https://www.revhipertension.com/rlh_1_2019/7_comparison_effect_compression.pdf
PhD Scholar (Pharmaceutics), MPhil (Pharmaceutics), Pharm D, B. Sc.
Uzma Zafar is a dedicated and highly motivated pharmaceutical professional currently pursuing her PhD in Pharmaceutics at the Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab. With a comprehensive academic and research background, Uzma has consistently excelled in her studies, securing first division throughout her educational journey.
Uzma’s passion for the pharmaceutical field is evident from her active engagement during her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) program, where she not only mastered industrial techniques and clinical case studies but also delved into marketing strategies and management skills.