PODIATRIST DISCUSSES USE OF COMPRESSION SOCKS

Georgeanne Botek, DPM, is the head of podiatry and the Director of the Diabetic Foot Clinic at the Cleveland Clinic. She’s quoted in the Cleveland Clinic’s Health Essentials discussing the use of compression socks: “It’s a very practical and common thing. But, at the same time, it’s a very underutilized option. In other words, more people could benefit from using them. The socks function like a pump. They gently squeeze our legs, applying pressure beneath the skin. This reduces excess leakage of fluid from the capillaries.” Dr. Botek adds, “and it increases the absorption of this tissue fluid by the capillaries and lymphatic vessels.” The result is reduced swelling and swelling prevention.

 

Dr. Georgeanne Botek

 

Additionally, Dr. Botek says, “It also reduces the ability of superficial veins to expand in order to fill with blood, which prevents that blood from flowing backwards and causing congestion.” If blood pools in the veins of the legs, she says, that can cause a variety of problems including skin changes, damage to vein walls and valves, inflammation of the vein (also called phlebitis, thrombophlebitis), varicose veins, and even blood clots.

 

Source: Marilyn Flower, Medium.com [12/3/20]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News