Elderly Treatment of Post Thrombotic Syndrome with Compression Stockings

Deep vein thrombosis is a medical condition that many elderly suffer from and live with on a long term basis. One of the long term complications of DVT is post thrombotic syndrome. One out of three elderly patients with DVT will develop post thrombotic syndrome. PTS has many symptoms, including pain, swelling, cramping, numbness and itching. These symptoms often affect the elderly's lower extremities, and may last for years. However, many doctors are now recommending the use of compression garments immediately after onset of deep vein thrombosis.

The American College of Clinical Pharmacy recommends that compression garments are worn below the knee at a compression of thirty to forty mmHg, and should be worn for about two years. As the elderly are treated for DVT on more of an outpatient basis, the use of compression garments to heal alleviate the symptoms of post thrombotic syndrome. It is also imperative that doctors and physicians prescribe the use compression stockings and provide the patient with details instructions on their use. Studies show that compliance ratios are much higher for patients that are provided with ample information and direction on the use of compression stocking to treat PTS.

There are many different types and styles of compression stocking, and they are widely available both online and at your local drugstore.