… and prevention stops severe venous disease from occurring.

If no disease is yet present (no medical indication), then the German health insurance schemes will not bear the cost. But investment in your own health is always worth it and compression stockings, when cared for correctly, last six months. If they are medically indicated, then the insurance schemes will pay part of the cost.

The preventative wearing of compression stockings makes sense for you if …

• You have an inherited weakness of connective tissue. This is often the case when close relatives have varicose veins or other venous disorders.
• Your occupation means that you have to spend long periods sitting, standing or squatting. The joint and muscle pumps can only function fully on exercise. The veins are pumped empty by muscle activity – or not at all.
• You suffer from chronic constipation. Pressure in the abdomen is increased, putting an additional load on the veins.
• You regularly drink (too much) alcohol. Alcohol dilates blood vessels.
• You are pregnant or have given birth recently, you are taking the "pill" or hormone replacement therapy for the menopause. Hormonal changes promote varicose veins.

Even people with healthy veins are recommended to wear special knee-high socks (flight socks) in situations of particular stress, e.g. on long journeys (specially by air) or if they have to stand for long periods (e.g. at trade fairs).

Tips for everyday life

• Take exercise as often as possible. Change your position frequently, putting your feet up if possible (like when on the telephone).
• Have a light and balanced diet.
• Reduce any excess weight.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
• Choose comfortable flat shoes.
• Shower your feet regularly with cold water. Alternating hot and cold showering strengthens the connective tissues.
• Schedule a regular ten-minute vein exercise session into your everyday routine.
• Wear insoles in your shoes if you have flat or splayed feet.
• Wear medical compression stockings.