Serena Williams was wearing Compression Stockings as Part of her Recovery Therapy

After two foot operations tennis legend, Serena Williams suffered a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) earlier in March of 2011, which turned into a much more dangerous pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs).

Doctors prescribed compression stockings as part of her therapy and she also wears them when she is flying.

Compression stockings are designed to optimize the return blood flow through the veins of the legs with the help of graduated compression.  Graduated compression works by exerting a higher pressure on the leg beginning at the ankle with a gradual decrease of the applied pressure going up the leg and with the lowest amount of pressure being applied in the area of the upper thigh.  Graduated compression stockings or pantyhose are designed to help with pushing the blood back up to the heart and lungs where it is supplied with oxygen before it recirculates through the body.

Our Special Tip: It is not a good idea to sit or stand still for long periods of time.  If possible, get up at least every hour to exercise your legs.  For additional tips and quick exercises on how to boost circulation in your legs please click the link below to read our post

“Tips for Preventing Economy Class Syndrome or Coach Class Syndrome as a Result of Long Distance Air Travel”