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Varicose veins are a very common condition that affects one or more of the large veins in the legs. For reasons that are poorly understood, the veins become distended, either because of an inherent weakness in the walls or a malfunction of some of the one-way valves, permitting a backflow and pooling of the blood. Obesity, pregnancy, constriction of the veins with garters or tight clothing and an inherited tendency are among the contributing causes of varicose veins. Contrary to popular belief, sedentary jobs or jobs that involve standing do not, in themselves, seem to cause …

While there is still controversy as to the precise role compression sleeves and gloves play, recent research is encouraging, especially with prevention. Compression applied to the arm may reduce lymph flow from the hand. Even a normal lymphatic system works harder to drain lymph from the hand than other parts of the arm. This fact explains why hand lymphedema is often the most challenging to treat and why lymphedema specialists take great pains to prevent it. Concern that compression sleeves may inadvertently trigger hand lymphedema underlies the recommendation to always wear a compression gauntlet or glove …