Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are Anti-Embolism Stockings?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Anti-embolism stockings prevent blood clots by applying sustained, even pressure to the legs. They are also known as TED stockings after a popular brand name and are available through medical suppliers. Some precautions need to be taken when wearing compression garments and it is advisable to talk to a medical provider before buying anti-embolism stockings. This can help a patient determine whether they are truly necessary and select an appropriate stocking size and level of compression, as they come in several grades.

These specialty garments are designed for patients with limited mobility who spend a lot of time in bed or recumbent. Such patients are at increased risk of blood clotting and swelling because it is difficult for blood and lymph to fully circulate through the legs. Anti-embolism stockings apply pressure to encourage fluids to move up the leg, with the highest pressure near the ankle and lower pressure further up the leg.

Compression socks may help prevent blood clots.
Compression socks may help prevent blood clots.

While wearing anti-embolism stockings, patients need to keep their legs elevated and cannot cross or massage them, as this can interfere with the compression and cause circulatory problems. It is also important to avoid wrinkles and pay attention to signs of discomfort that might indicate the stockings are too tight, not properly adjusted, or out of position. High compression can potentially cut off circulation in the leg, which would cause serious complications.

Compression stockings can reduce the risk of getting blood clots in the lower legs by supporting blood circulation of the limbs.
Compression stockings can reduce the risk of getting blood clots in the lower legs by supporting blood circulation of the limbs.

If a medical provider thinks a patient will benefit from anti-embolism stockings, the patient typically receives a two part recommendation. The first involves the stocking length, from mid-calf all the way up to the hip, depending on the specifics of the patient’s case. Secondly, the necessary level of compression is determined. Patients shouldn’t get stockings with a higher rating, because these could be dangerous. A nurse or other practitioner may provide instruction in how to safely put on and adjust the stockings so the patient can be assured of wearing them correctly.

Anti-embolism stockings are sometimes prescribed as a prevention and treatment measure for spider veins.
Anti-embolism stockings are sometimes prescribed as a prevention and treatment measure for spider veins.

In hospital settings, anti-embolism stockings may be recommended for patients recovering from surgery and serious injuries. Nurses may position and monitor the stockings for the patient. People who experience symptoms like numbness and tingling or sharp pains should report them, as they could be a sign of a bad reaction to the stockings. It’s also possible to be allergic to components in the product; in this case, the patient may develop inflammation and irritation that cause itching, redness, and swelling in the legs.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Compression socks may help prevent blood clots.
      By: nito
      Compression socks may help prevent blood clots.
    • Compression stockings can reduce the risk of getting blood clots in the lower legs by supporting blood circulation of the limbs.
      By: Andreja Donko
      Compression stockings can reduce the risk of getting blood clots in the lower legs by supporting blood circulation of the limbs.
    • Anti-embolism stockings are sometimes prescribed as a prevention and treatment measure for spider veins.
      By: hriana
      Anti-embolism stockings are sometimes prescribed as a prevention and treatment measure for spider veins.
    • Anti-embolism stockings should not be so tight as to cut off blood flow.
      By: zest_marina
      Anti-embolism stockings should not be so tight as to cut off blood flow.
    • In a hospital setting, anti-embolism stockings may be used for patients who are recovering from surgery.
      By: Sam Spiro
      In a hospital setting, anti-embolism stockings may be used for patients who are recovering from surgery.
    • An allergic reaction to anti-embolism stockings may result in swelling of the legs.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      An allergic reaction to anti-embolism stockings may result in swelling of the legs.