Compression Stockings 101: Q&A with a Vein Specialist

So you have to wear compression socks or stockings? You’re not alone. Thousands of people have been in your shoes. And yet despite this – support legwear remains a topic clouded by confusion & misinformation. Who should wear it? What’s it used for? And how do you know which garment’s right for you?

All too often, we hear stories of doctors giving the compression suggestion with no guidance beyond that. Is that something you experienced? If so, they probably scribbled an illegible suggestion on a pad & sent you on your way with little beyond that. Suddenly, in simply trying to follow orders, you’re confronted with an overwhelming array of options, sizes, support levels, and styles. Or maybe a doctor didn’t tell you to wear compression. Maybe you’re healthy & think compression isn’t something you need.

Do you ever travel? Sit or stand for long periods? Considering becoming pregnant? Or have a family history of varicose veins? If so, then compression may be something you should consider. Fortunately, regardless of your situation – there are people & resources to help.

We teamed up with vein specialist Dr Bunke-Paquette, MD, FACPh to get her pro answers and insights to a few of the most common compression questions. Check out our exclusive interview & read on for some more of her top tips and answers to our most commonly asked questions.  

Who’s the pro? 

Dr. Bunke-Paquette, MD, FACPh specializes in minimally invasive outpatient procedures for a variety of venous conditions. Board-certified & fellowship trained in Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, she was the first physician in the United States to complete fellowship training supported by the American College of Phlebology. In addition to directing her practice at La Jolla Vein Care, she’s a Volunteer Clinical Instructor of Surgery at UCSD School of Medicine, member of the Scripps Ximed Medical Group & VA Medical Center. Dr. Bunke-Paquette is also physician & scientist actively leading award-winning clinical research studies.

For more information on Dr. Bunke & her practice, visit https://lajollaveincare.com/doctors/