Efficacy of graded elastic compression in the lower leg
S. Pierson, D. Pierson, R. Swallow and G. Johnson Jr
Graded elastic compression stockings on the lower leg were evaluated for
their ability to (1) decrease leg volume, (2) decrease circumference, and
(3) alleviate discomfort. One hundred three test subjects participated in
this study, including 30 normal, asymptomatic control subjects. The
conditions of the 73 symptomatic patients were categorized by pain and
swelling, varicose veins, venous stasis, lymphedema, and phlebitis, which
constituted symptoms in 120 legs. Although total body weight did not change
during the week of observation, the volume, circumference, and pain
decreased in the symptomatic group. The volume of the stockinged leg
decreased in comparison with the nonstockinged control leg in the
asymptomatic subjects as well. We conclude that non-custom-made graded
elastic stockings with 24 mm Hg of pressure at the ankle are effective in
decreasing volume, circumference, and symptoms in the lower leg in patients
with minimal problems during a one-week period.
