Does Medicare Cover Compression Stockings?

What Conditions do Compression Stockings Treat?

Improved circulation in your legs, ankles, and feet is a plus under any circumstances, so compression stockings are useful for treating a range of conditions. The lower-pressure versions can ease the tiredness, achiness, and swelling associated with spending long hours on your feet, which makes them popular with retail employees, waitstaff, and professionals who must stand for extended periods of time.

Individuals recovering from surgery or on extended bed rest often wear compression stockings to ensure proper blood flow. Those who must sit for long periods, for example during air travel, may wear compression stockings to prevent discomfort and the possibility of blood clots.

Athletes use compression socks to support their legs and ankles through strenuous workouts, and they often use compression sleeves on their arms. This prevents damage to muscles and speeds recovery through increased blood flow.

Your physician may recommend compression stockings for serious medical issues that affect your circulation. These are some of the most common reasons compression stockings are prescribed:

• Support during pregnancy
• Edema
• Lymphedema
• Varicose veins
• Spider veins
• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
• Lipodermatosclerosis
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Phlebitis

One of the major issues that all of these conditions have in common is poor circulation of blood and fluids in the lower half of the body. Compression stockings create an environment in which blood moves more effectively, reducing the symptoms and side effects associated with these health concerns.

Does Medicare Cover Compression Stockings for Severe Conditions?

The standard Medicare plan does not cover compression stockings in most cases, but does Medicare cover compression stockings for severe conditions? There is one situation in which your compression garments may be covered.

If your vein disease has progressed to the point where you have open venous stasis ulcers, your vein doctor may prescribe graduated compression stockings as part of your treatment plan. Medicare may cover the stockings in this case, because the stockings are serving as a dressing for your open wounds.

If your situation qualifies for Medicare coverage, keep in mind that the gradient compression stockings you purchase must meet certain criteria. First, they have to be the type of stockings that are knee-high or lower. Second, they must offer compression between 30 mmHg and 50 mmHg.

If you are experiencing venous stasis ulcers, see your vein doctor in New York or vein doctor in New Jersey for more information on treating this condition.

How Do I use Compression Stockings?

It is important to consult your physician before you begin using compression stockings, particularly when you are considering higher levels of pressure. A proper fit is critical for maximum effectiveness, and stockings that are too tight can restrict circulation, rather than improving it. For the same reason, it is important to choose compression socks and compression stockings that are the right length. If you need to fold or roll them at the top or the bottom, they may become too tight in those areas.

If you are wearing compression stockings to treat venous disorders, put them on before you get out of bed. This ensures that your vessels are in the optimal position when pressure is applied. Finally, smooth out the fabric once you put the compression stockings on. Wrinkled or bunched material can reduce effectiveness.

When Should I See a Vein Specialist?

Minor heaviness and achiness in your legs after a long day on your feet is common, and compression stockings that exert mild pressure can resolve these issues quickly. However, if you notice on-going or worsening symptoms like swelling, heaviness,  pain in your legs, leg cramps, varicose veins, and/or spider veins, see your vein doctor in NY or vein doctor in NJ for a comprehensive evaluation. These symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying vein disease, such as Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI). If this disease is left untreated, your symptoms may continue to worsen, leading to more varicose veins and spider veins, skin disorders, and in severe cases, venous stasis ulcers.

The Vein Treatment Center offers the highest level of care, with Harvard Trained vein specialists that have the education and experience to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. These experts are focused on strong patient/physician relationships, and they make it a point to include you as a partner in the evaluation and treatment process. Staff members provide support if you have questions on what Medicare covers, and they can assist you with your private insurance plan, as well.

Visit the Vein Treatment Clinic online to schedule an appointment or call the office at 855-386-0195.