When most people hear “compression stockings,” they think of the tight, sometimes cumbersome hosiery their grandmother wore. However, as any leading vein specialist in New York will attest, modern compression therapy is a cornerstone of vascular health, offering both a powerful standalone treatment and a critical component of surgical recovery. Under the care of experts like Dr. Hratch Karamanoukian, recognized as among the best vascular surgeons in Buffalo, patients learn that these garments are sophisticated medical devices designed to improve circulation and alleviate a host of debilitating symptoms.
What Are Compression Stockings, Really?
Far from ordinary socks, medical-grade compression stockings are engineered to apply graduated pressure to the legs—strongest at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the limb. This precise gradient assists the circulatory system in its most challenging task: pushing blood upward from the legs back to the heart against gravity.
When the tiny valves in our veins become weak or damaged—a condition known as venous insufficiency—blood can pool in the legs. This is what leads to the aching, heaviness, and swelling associated with varicose veins. Compression stockings act as an external layer of support, helping these weakened valves function more efficiently.
When Does a Vein Specialist in New York Recommend Them?
A top vein specialist in New York, such as Dr. Karamanoukian, may prescribe compression therapy for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Management of Chronic Venous Insufficiency:To control symptoms like leg pain, swelling, and fatigue.
- Treatment of Varicose and Spider Veins:To alleviate discomfort and prevent existing veins from worsening.
- Prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):Especially during long periods of immobility, such as long-haul flights or post-surgery recovery.
- Lymphedema Management:To reduce swelling caused by lymphatic system fluid buildup.
- Post-Procedural Care:Essential after vein treatments like sclerotherapy or endovenous ablation to ensure optimal results and minimize complications.
The Right Fit for the Right Results with the Best Vascular Surgeon in Buffalo
One of the most critical aspects of compression therapy is proper fitting. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. As Dr. Karamanoukian, a best vascular surgeon in Buffalo, emphasizes, an ill-fitting stocking can be ineffective at best and harmful at worst. During a consultation at his practice, patients receive a professional fitting to determine:
- The Correct Compression Level:Measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), ranging from mild (15-20 mmHg) for daily wear and fatigue relief to firm (30-40 mmHg) for severe venous insufficiency.
- The Perfect Size:Based on precise measurements of the ankle, calf, and thigh.
- The Right Style:Including knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose options to suit the patient’s specific medical needs and lifestyle.
Experience the Difference Expert Care Can Make
If you are experiencing symptoms of vein disease or have been told you could benefit from compression stockings, seek care from a specialist who understands the full spectrum of vascular health. Don’t settle for over-the-counter options without a proper diagnosis.
Discover the difference that expert care can make. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hratch Karamanoukian, a best vascular surgeon in Buffalo, to receive a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique vascular needs.
