Why are support stockings used?
- A. To aid mobility
- B. To promote arterial flow
- C. To aid muscle strength
- D. To promote venous flow
Answer D: To promote venous flow
When lying down, very little extra power is necessary as blood does not have to go uphill and the movements we make in our sleep are enough to keep the blood flowing. Valves in the veins stop the blood flowing backwards when the muscles relax. If the valves are damaged or weakened, the veins can become over-stretched and develop into varicose veins. If the valves are severely damaged by a blood clot or injury and the condition is neglected, leg ulcers might result. To promote venous flow, stockings can help to correct the underlying problem of poor venous blood return and also reduce leg pain and swelling.