Compression therapy
/kʌmpɹɛʃʌn/ /θɛɹʌpi/
1. [noun] compression therapy means wearing socks or stockings that are specially designed to support your veins and increase circulation in your legs. The socks or stockings are normally worn in the morning upon arising, and removed at night. Throughout the day the compression they provide prevents blood from pooling in leg veins, thereby helping overall circulation and diminishing leg swelling. See: https://www.veinforum.org/patients/what-is-vein-disease/what-is-compression-therapy/ ; Accessed May 14 2019 The abnormal backward flow of blood in the leg veins or blockages to the blood getting out of the leg can lead to problem including swelling, skin changes and even ulcers. Once the diagnosis is made, placing compression from the outside of the leg can correct many of the underlying problems such that the symptoms get better. Compression therapy comes in many forms and some devices are better for healing ulcers (open skin lesions) and other for maintaining a steady state within the leg. See: https://www.veinforum.org/patients/vein-handbook/#chapter ; See Chapter 13: Compression Therapy for Venous Disorders and Venous Ulceration by Gregory L. Moneta and Hugo Partsch; Abstracted by Teresa L. Carman. Accessed may 14 2019
Source: https://www.veinforum.org/patients/what-is-vein-disease/what-is-compression-therapy/
Frequently Asked Questions
How do specialized compression socks help support circulation in the feet and ankles when worn during daily activities?
These garments apply consistent pressure to the lower extremities, ensuring that blood flows smoothly while you walk or stand, reducing the chance of pooling in the foot and ankle regions.
Is it true that regular athletic shoes offer the same support as compression therapy for foot circulation?
No, everyday footwear does not provide the graduated, consistent pressure that specialized compression socks offer. These socks are designed specifically to enhance circulation in the feet and legs.
Does the term 'compression' have an etymological meaning that relates to its function in foot care?
Yes, 'compression' originates from the Latin word 'comprimere,' meaning to press together. This reflects how the garments work by applying even pressure to support blood flow in the feet and ankles.