Efficiency of compression stocking and exercise in standing work

Abstract

Introduction: Prolonged standing is leading to pain, fatigue and discomfort in legs. Compression stocking, foot rest, sit-standchair or exercise used to reduce these problems. the objective of this study was to compare the effectsof using compression stocking and leg exercises.

Method: 66 volunteers were randomed and divided into 3 groups (control, exercises, and compression stocking groups).Leg volume, circumferences of lower leg and ankle, and body discomfort were collected on day 0, 30,and 60. Repeated measure ANOVA and multivariate analysis of variance were used to analyze data.

Result: This study showed that leg volume in 3 groups were decreased significantly (p ≤ 0.01) on day 30.These may be due to the effect of shift work periods. There were no differences on body discomfortamong 3 groups. However, body discomfort in exercise group showed tendency to decrease more thanother groups.

Discussion and Conclusion: Using compression stocking may be not essential to reduce lower extremity swelling, discomfort and fatigue in healthy people or people who have no venous disease. Therefore, this study suggested thatthe exercise may be a better choice for improving blood circulation and saving the costs.

Key words: Compression stocking, Exercises, Discomfort, Leg volume, Circumferences