Compression stockings use stronger elastics to create significant pressure on the legs, ankles and feet. Compression stockings are designed with controlled gradient compression tightest at the ankles and gradually become less constrictive toward the knees and thighs. By compressing the surface veins, arteries and muscles, they force circulating blood through narrower channels. As a result, the arterial pressure is increased, which causes more blood to return to the heart and less blood to pool in the feet. compression stockings are made to provide relief for a wide range of conditions, from tired, achy legs and varicose veins to more severe problems such as chronic venous insufficiency.