Compression stockings, or support hose, were first created by inventor and mechanical engineer Conrad Jobst. This man suffered from vascular problems himself, and with a lack of solutions at that time, came up with a solution of his own. He developed a stocking that fit tightly on the leg. The lower part of the stocking became tighter and more compressed. This compression at the bottom of the leg forced blood flow back up the leg and prevented it from pooling in the ankles and feet. This increased circulation and prevented blood clots and varicose veins.
In the early years, compression stockings were bulky and heavy. Over time, the design was improved and today's stockings are now made of a lightweight, breathable material that comes in a variety of shades to compliment your style. Compression stockings, or compression socks come in knee length or thigh length, and they can be purchased to look like a traditional stocking, or in opaque to look like nylons.
There are many different benefits to using support hose, ranging from prevention of varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis, to relief of tired, achy legs. Athletes have discovered the comfort of playing sports in these stockings, as well as diabetics and pregnant women, who are prone to swollen feet and ankles.
Triathlon participants have begun using support hose, or compression socks as a way to massage the muscles while they are running. The stockings hug the legs and with the movement of running, the leg muscles get a nice massage. Once again, the stockings promote blood flow and prevent the legs from feeling achy after a good long run.
Support hose are also used after surgery to prevent blood clots in the legs. Following leg or knee surgery, the patient is normally immobile for quite some time. Circulation in the legs will be poor, and this is the perfect setting for clots to form. If a clot was to break free from the legs and travel to the heart or lungs, the results could be fatal.
Many diabetics use these stockings to improve circulation in the legs. Diabetics have to be especially careful with their legs and feet, as poor blood flow can result in amputation. Compression stockings can help someone with diabetes by circulating fresh oxygenated blood to the feet and lower legs.
These stockings at one time were considered to be worn only by the injured or elderly, but with today's variety of styles and uses, they can be worn by anyone, and most of the time, the person wearing them is the only one who knows they have them on.
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