Varicose Veins and Compression Therapy: Understanding Your Options
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins visible beneath the skin — most commonly appearing in the legs and feet. They are among the most common vascular conditions in Canada, affecting a significant portion of the adult population. While varicose veins have both medical and cosmetic dimensions, one of the most widely discussed non-invasive management approaches is graduated compression therapy.
This article outlines what compression therapy involves in the context of varicose veins, what it can and cannot do, and how to choose products suited to your situation.
What Causes Varicose Veins?
Veins in the legs carry blood upward against gravity toward the heart. They contain one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. When these valves weaken or become damaged, blood can pool — stretching and enlarging the vein walls over time, creating the twisted, rope-like appearance of varicose veins.
Common contributing factors include prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, family history, and increasing age. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, venous conditions are among the most common circulatory issues affecting Canadians.
How Does Compression Therapy Help?
Graduated compression stockings apply pressure that is firmest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. This pressure profile assists the venous wall and remaining valve function in moving blood upward, which can help reduce the pooling and pressure that worsens varicose vein symptoms.
Common effects reported by people who wear compression for varicose vein management include:
- Reduced aching and heaviness in the legs
- Less swelling (oedema) by the end of the day
- Improved comfort during periods of prolonged standing or sitting
Compression does not cause varicose veins to disappear or reverse the physical changes to the vein wall — it is a supportive management approach rather than a treatment that addresses the underlying venous structure.
Which Compression Level Is Typically Recommended for Varicose Veins?
The compression level used for varicose vein management depends on the severity of the condition:
- 15-20 mmHg: Suitable for mild symptoms, spider veins, and preventive use. Available without a prescription.
- 20-30 mmHg: The most commonly recommended level for mild to moderate varicose veins. Provides meaningful venous support while remaining tolerable for daily wear.
- 30-40 mmHg: Used for more pronounced varicose veins or moderate-to-severe chronic venous insufficiency. Professional fitting guidance is recommended at this level.
Browse the varicose vein compression collection at Factory Direct Medical, including SIGVARIS and JOBST options across compression levels.
Choosing Between Knee-High and Thigh-High Options
For most people with varicose veins confined to the calf and lower leg, knee-high compression stockings are the standard choice. If varicosities extend into the thigh, thigh-high stockings or pantyhose may be recommended by a healthcare provider.
Spider Veins vs Varicose Veins: Different Presentations
Spider veins are smaller, closer to the skin surface, and typically cosmetic in nature. They appear as fine red, purple, or blue lines and are generally less symptomatic than varicose veins. Browse the spider vein compression collection for lighter support options suited to this presentation.
When to Speak with a Healthcare Provider
If you experience significant leg pain, skin changes near varicose veins, ulceration, or sudden worsening of symptoms, speaking with a physician or vascular specialist is recommended. Compression stockings are a supportive tool — they work best as part of an overall approach to leg health that your healthcare team can help you design.
Factory Direct Medical carries certified fitters in our Concord, Ontario showroom who can assist with selecting the right compression level and style. Call us at 1-855-235-2400 or visit us in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do compression stockings make varicose veins go away?
Compression stockings do not eliminate varicose veins or reverse changes to the vein wall. They help manage symptoms such as aching, heaviness, and swelling by supporting venous blood flow while the stockings are worn.
How long should I wear compression stockings each day for varicose veins?
Most people put on compression stockings in the morning before getting out of bed or standing up, and remove them before going to sleep. Wearing them during the active day — when you're on your feet or sitting for extended periods — is typically when the support is most beneficial.
Are compression stockings for varicose veins covered in Canada?
Coverage varies by province and private insurance plan. Medical-grade compression stockings prescribed by a physician may be partially or fully covered under some extended health benefit plans. Check with your insurer or provincial benefits coordinator.
Shop Varicose Vein Compression at Factory Direct Medical
Browse the varicose vein collection — SIGVARIS and JOBST options across all compression levels, shipped across Canada.