Effect of elastic stockings and ankle positions on the blood velocity in the common femoral vein

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to identify how to effectively use elastic stockings. [Subjects and Methods] Ten young healthy men participated in this study. Time-averaged maximum flow velocity in the common femoral vein was measured for 20 seconds using a pulse Doppler method with a diagnostic ultrasound system under six conditions (three different positions and with and without stockings). Changes of blood flow velocity were compared. [Results] Elastic stockings did not affect the blood flow velocity in the common femoral vein. For both the with stockings condition and without stockings condition, the time-averaged maximum flow velocity in the head-up position was significantly lower than that in the supine and leg-up positions. Time-averaged maximum flow velocity showed no significant difference between the supine position and leg-up position. [Conclusion] Elastic stockings did not affect the blood flow velocity in the common femoral vein, but ankle positions did affect it. Further studies of patients with venous insufficiency are needed.