How to choose elastic stockings for surgery. How to choose compression stockings and choose the right size. Purpose of compression stockings

A problem that many people face is varicose veins. Varicose veins are a disease in which the valves of the internal veins do not close. Reasons may include a sedentary lifestyle, high heels, work where a person spends a long time standing or sitting, pregnancy, and heredity.

Treatment methods can be classical medical treatment or surgery, as well as external cosmetic procedures or traditional methods of treating the disease.

The place of compression garments in the treatment of varicose veins should not be underestimated. Compression therapy is one of the main methods of treating the disease, both in the initial stages and in advanced forms. This therapy has no side effects and is usually prescribed by a medical specialist.

Compression underwear

Compression therapy involves the use of compression garments.

Distinguish in it knee socks, stockings, tights, tights, sleeves and bandages. This type of underwear does not cause any discomfort. For the summer period, when it can cause discomfort in the heat, summer models have been developed from thin material and with an open toe.

You can wear it not only for medicinal purposes, but also instead of regular underwear. One or another underwear is selected depending on the place where the diseased vein is located, and is used five to ten centimeters higher.

Compression stockings

One of the main types of compression garments is orthopedic stockings for varicose veins. Most often they are used by the female gender. Modern compression stockings will not only help you stay healthy, but also look very aesthetically pleasing. They must fit perfectly in all areas of the legs to achieve maximum effect.

Action, healing properties and purposes of wearing stockings

One of the main purposes of compression stockings is establish proper functioning of the venous system, and muscle fiber systems. Reduce tissue swelling.

Compression or external pressure leads to a decrease in the diameter of the veins and a decrease in the closure of the venous valves, as a result of which reverse flow does not occur. Very Anatomical pressure on the lower limbs is important.

That is, this means that the compression in the ankle area should be maximum and decreases towards the fixing elastic band. Thanks to this design, blood moves towards the heart.

Indications for use

It is impossible to cure varicose veins with just one piece of underwear, but it is quite possible to improve the quality of life. This therapy is practiced along with the main treatment.

Many experts advise wearing compression stockings against varicose veins when there are no symptoms yet to prevent the appearance of varicose veins.

To reduce pain. (When you step, the leg muscle trembles; with vein disease, and not only that, painful sensations appear).
To remove excess toxins and moisture.(Wearing underwear creates additional blood flow).
To relieve symptoms of heaviness and fatigue.(Compression hosiery has graduated compression (pressure on soft tissue)). There is pressure on the muscular-venous pump, the lumen of the vessels (venous) narrows, therefore, the outflow of blood from the legs to the heart increases several times.

Classification of stockings and rules for their selection

Orthopedic stockings for varicose veins are divided on the:

classic;
on silicone rubber;
on a treatment belt with Velcro;
with an open cape.

According to compression, stockings are divided into classes:

0,1,2,3 and “hospital”- these are classes of compression garments.

Zero and first class used for prophylaxis, purchased without the prescription of a specialist. It is used when working on the legs, or, conversely, during sedentary work, with unstable swelling (appears in the evening and disappears in the morning), during pregnancy.
Second and third grade compression garments are prescribed only by a doctor. It is used if varicose veins are caused by hereditary symptoms, as well as after surgery on the veins, with persistent swelling, pain and visible spider veins.
"Hospital" The compression garment class is prescribed only by a doctor. As a rule, after surgery, depending on the duration of the operation (5 minutes or 5 hours), or the length of stay in bed.

Like regular stockings, classified according to DEN(a unit of knitwear density), compression stockings are classified accordingly by compression. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (pressure force), and each stage of compression corresponds to its:

0 class: 13-15 millimeters of mercury;
Class 1: 18-21 millimeters of mercury;
Class 2: 23-32 millimeters of mercury;
Class 3: 34-46 millimeters of mercury;
“hospital”: from 49 and above millimeters of mercury.

To size

The size of medical stockings for varicose veins should be approached very carefully. It is determined by measuring the circumference of the legs at certain points and the length (foot, ankle, shin, knee and thigh of the leg) so that the graph of disappearing compression is even.

The best time to measure is in the morning, immediately after waking up, when your legs are still in a calm position. After determining the size, you can choose the material from which the stockings are made.

By composition

Compressor underwear is manufactured using special technology. It should be noted that it is not sewn on a conveyor belt, but is sewn individually in a “circular” (essentially circular knitting).

This underwear does not heat up; it contains elastane, which is necessary to create compression. Linen is difficult to stretch. It is neither cold nor hot. It's comfortable. There are pure cotton linen production lines and rubber ones.

Rules for wearing stockings

Stockings should only be worn in the morning. Should be worn carefully.

There may be clues (watch your manicure). If there is a child in the house and you have to play with him, try to do as few squats as possible, as your knees may stretch out.

On the stockings themselves, you can put on thin silk socks, which will protect your stockings from rubbing and the appearance of holes in the heel.

Dressing rules

Compression garments are difficult to put on due to the elastane thread they contain.

The stocking, golf is stretched on the hand to the “heel” and only after that is turned out. We put the foot itself into the so-called “house” for the foot, the most difficult place is the place in the instep, we pull it, insert the leg completely.

For overweight people, for people with bad backs, for late pregnant women, there is a special device for putting on compressor underwear.

Called butler. A stocking, golf or sock is put on it, a leg is inserted, and then the butler is taken out, and the leg remains in the “clothes”. If your stockings have a toe, you must first put on silk socks.

Rules for caring for stockings

Compression stockings require regular washing. Hand washing is mandatory only.

In order not to deform the fiber structure of the laundry, wringing and twisting should be avoided.

For people who are forced to wear stockings around the clock, doctors recommend that they wash themselves with soap, rinse under running water and dry with a towel.

Stocking manufacturing companies and patient reviews

Each company is trying to gain its place in the market to attract more consumers, creating unique models, but all aimed at therapeutic effects. There are no problems choosing and buying therapeutic stockings for varicose veins now.

Company VALENTO– produces compression garments with a massage effect, made from natural linen fibers.
Ofa Bamberg (Germany)– uses modern materials, lace elements, a rich palette of colors and fibers. The lingerie models contain skin care substances.

The Internet is replete with patient reviews about compression stockings for varicose veins.

For the most part, the opinion boils down to the fact that stockings should mainly be bought from expensive brands, made in Italy or Germany.

Companies in these countries provide economy class stockings, the wearing period of which is halved, but the price is not deterrent in relation to the quality. Cheap models often do not match the compression interval (one is indicated on the box, another on the product tag).

The wear period often does not maintain the established time interval. Knees stretch. Clues quickly appear. The heels are rubbing.

The price of compression stockings for varicose veins is high. However, this is the very moment when savings can backfire. There is a certain quality standard.

All companies strive to obtain the highest certificate. Products from a company that has been certified according to this standard must display the icon of this certificate on the box.

It can be found on models produced in Germany and Switzerland. In this case the high price gives confidence that the knitwear will perform the specified functions. The price of stockings for varicose veins often depends on the manufacturer and the level of compression.

To buy stockings for varicose veins you will have to spend from thousands to tens of thousands of rubles.

Company TONUS ELAST (Latvia), offers its class 2 models (23-32) for 1,500 rubles or more.
Models (Germany), the same class and compression can be purchased for 2500-3300 rubles per pair. You should only buy underwear in specialized stores, where they will advise you on the brand and model according to a prescription prescribed by a doctor.

Compression stockings today are not only a necessity for people with varicose veins, but also a means of preventing many vascular diseases. However, you should approach the choice of such a product wisely, after consulting with your doctor or specialist.

Video: How to put on compression stockings correctly?

When diagnosing various disorders in the venous system of the lower extremities, for example when, all patients are recommended to wear compression garments. This is an excellent tool that allows you to make additional corrections in the treatment of pathological processes, changing the patient’s condition towards improvement.

The essence of the therapeutic effect

Compression therapy for vein diseases has been used throughout history. A description of methods for treating trophic ulcers on the legs with bandages and pressure bandages is in the works of the founders of medical science. The principle of compression underwear is that it creates pressure of varying strength in different parts of the lower limb. In this case, the maximum compression (100%) falls on the lower part of the leg (above the ankle). This is due to the fact that more force is required to lift the blood up from this area. As the blood flow moves upward, the load on the veins decreases. 70% of the pressure inherent in the underwear is applied to the upper part of the shin, and only 40% is applied to the thigh. The underwear compresses the veins, pushing out stagnant blood, forcing it to move.

Patient's leg without using compression stockings (left) and with them (right)

Thanks to this load distribution, blood flow directed to the heart is normalized. Built-in compression resembles the load created by muscle work during movement . People who use compression garments, by the end of the working day, have less tired legs and do not swell. Compression knitwear for varicose veins includes knee socks and sleeves, tights and tights, stockings and bandages. It has virtually no contraindications. And you can wear it all the time instead of regular underwear.

The effect achieved by wearing therapeutic underwear

The underwear puts constant pressure on the surface of the leg.
Protects veins from expansion.
Wearing compression hosiery (tights, stockings or golf) normalizes blood flow in the lower extremities, helping to improve the supply of tissues with nutrients and oxygen.
The use of compression garments warns.

Material for making compression garments

Compression knitted underwear is made from elastic cotton and nylon fibers, microfiber and lycra. Therefore, it has the same aesthetic appearance as a regular one. There are no seams. This is the most attractive remedy. In addition, it is hypoallergenic, pleasantly caresses the skin and allows air to pass through. Compression properties are created and distributed by special processing of linen using the latest computer technology. If you follow the rules of care, the healing properties last for 6 months.

Types of compression garments

Compression garments can be preventive (the compression they create is the smallest), therapeutic (for wearing during an exacerbation of venous disease) and hospital (for use in hospitals after surgery).

It is recommended to wear prophylactic underwear when the legs first appear, or when pain and swelling appear in the legs at the end of the working day. Such stockings exert a pressure of no more than 18 mmHg on the surface of the leg. Art. (2.7x10³ Pa), which is designed to balance the increased blood pressure in the lower parts of the vein. Thanks to this, the elastic stocking does not allow fluid to accumulate in the ankle area, thereby eliminating the cause of swelling. For prevention purposes Compression garments can also be worn by healthy people at risk on the occurrence of diseases of the venous vessels of the lower extremities. It is useful for teachers and salespeople, hairdressers and drivers, as well as representatives of other professions whose work involves long periods of being in one static position (standing or sitting). It can be purchased over the counter in pharmacies. No recipe required for this. Since compression garments come in different types, let’s look at each of them.

Pantyhose and stockings

Compression tights are the most popular type of therapeutic underwear. In addition, there are special models for pregnant women. Tights that are properly sized should fit tightly around your legs and end exactly at the waist. If the underwear is too small or, conversely, too large, the distribution of compression is disrupted and the therapeutic effect is lost. According to reviews from most patients, tights are the most comfortable type of compression hosiery, which is easy to remove, but when putting it on you need to make some effort, since they must be evenly distributed along the leg. But then they will be securely fixed on the nude and will not slip during movement, which contributes to the accurate distribution of the compression embedded in them and the achievement of the desired results. Wearing compression garments can be combined with the use of cosmetics for the legs and medicinal preparations in the form of ointments and creams. But it is better if they are applied before bedtime, after the medicinal underwear has been removed. If the skin requires constant hydration, it is recommended to use quickly absorbing creams with a light structure. This will protect the linen from destroying the integrity of the fibers and losing its healing properties.

Knee socks

Stockings and tights are more suitable for treating diseased veins in women. But in the world, many men suffer from varicose veins. How should they be? Should you constantly wrap your legs with elastic bandages? No. Doctors have a solution to the problem for men too. They can use compression socks, the choice of which is quite wide today. Special knee socks have been created for travelers and people leading an active lifestyle, preventative and for constant wear for medicinal purposes. Although why shouldn’t men wear tights under their trousers? You can’t see it anyway, but what a luxury for your feet! There is a wide range of compression socks from various brands for both men and women. It is believed that all people can wear them as they have no side effects. However, there are several contraindications. Knee socks should not be worn if a person has blood vessel diseases such as aortoarteritis, as well as open wounds or with purulent inflammation, necrosis or eczema.

Elastic bandage

An elastic bandage is still used as an additional treatment for varicose veins. Compared to compression hosiery, it is less effective. In addition, it is inconvenient and takes a long time to apply it to diseased areas. The degree of compression is created manually by tightening the bandages and is controlled intuitively. But the biggest drawback is that the bandages constantly slip off. However, many people are forced to use them, since this is the cheapest type of knitwear used to prevent diseases of the venous vessels. Therefore, you should know how to properly bandage your legs for varicose veins.

Rules for applying an elastic bandage

It should be remembered that you need to apply an elastic bandage in the morning, immediately after waking up, before fluid begins to accumulate in the ankle area, leading to swelling. The procedure is performed in the “lying” position, with the leg raised up at an angle of 90°. Doing this on your own is inconvenient. Yes, and achieving the desired tension is quite difficult. Therefore, it is better to ask someone from the household to help complete this procedure.

Leg binding begins with the narrowest area (ankles), gradually moving to a wider area (thigh).
When wrapping an ankle, you should make a kind of “lock” by placing wraps around the heel. This will prevent the bandage from slipping while moving.
Stretch the bandage evenly when applying turns, making sure that folds do not form.
The roll of bandage is unrolled little by little, closer to the leg, trying not to stretch it. This will avoid excessive compression of the tissue.
When applying the bandage, you must ensure that its turns are applied with a slight overlap, without the formation of gaps.
In the ankle area, the bandage should be tighter. As you move up, each turn is applied weaker.
The bandage begins at least 20 cm from the diseased area. It should also end in an area with healthy vessels, at least 15 cm long.

The correct application of the bandage can be checked by the appearance of the fingers. If done correctly, they will look blue at first. But literally after a couple of minutes their normal color returns. In the area of the knee and elbow joints, the bandage should not be too tight so as not to disrupt blood circulation in this area. A sign of improper bandaging (too tight) is numbness in the fingers and pain. At the same time, blood pulsation is felt under the bandage. In this case, you need to lie down, free your leg from the bandage, massage it a little, and allow the blood flow to normalize. And then re-bandage.

Therapeutic effect and classification of knitwear

To achieve the necessary therapeutic effect in the treatment of varicose veins and a number of other vein diseases, drug therapy alone is not enough. Therapeutic knitwear plays a major role in eliminating swelling, relieving pain and other symptoms. Thanks to wearing it, patients experience the following beneficial effects:

The diameter of the veins decreases, which normalizes the functioning of the valve mechanism. The viscosity in the blood decreases, the speed of venous return blood flow increases. Thanks to this, the likelihood of blood clots is significantly reduced.
The ability of the venous-muscular pump to push blood increases due to compression of the veins located in the muscle tissue.
The ability of capillaries to absorb extracellular fluid increases. And this leads to the elimination of edema.

In all classes, compression is distributed from 100% at the ankle to 40% at the hip

Unlike preventative compression garments, therapeutic ones cannot be purchased over the counter. It is sold by prescription. And it is recommended to purchase it in specialized salons that sell orthopedic products. Medical therapeutic knitwear has the following compression classes according to the degree of pressure created:

Class 1. The compression created does not exceed 23 mmHg. Art. (2.7x10³ Pa). Wearing underwear of this class is recommended for patients at the stage of the appearance of spider veins on the legs, enlargement of the saphenous veins, and pain in the legs at the end of the working day.
Class 2. The distributed pressure is no more than 33 mmHg. (4.25x10³ Pa). Used in the treatment of varicose veins of moderate severity.
Class 3. Compression is not higher than 45 mm Hg. (6.1x10³ Pa). Tights (and other products) are used for severe cases characterized by trophic disorders.
Class 4. Compression exceeds 50 mmHg (6.5x10³ Pa). Used to treat and eliminate swelling caused by this disease.

Preventive underwear and knitwear of the 1st class can be selected independently. And buying tights or stockings included in compression classes 2 and 3 is allowed only after a preliminary consultation with a phlebologist. He will give recommendations on wearing regimen; will tell you how to properly use and care for your underwear.

All types of compression underwear have different prices, but it most often depends on the promotion of the brand and the material from which the socks are made (stockings or tights). Distributing compression over areas of tights (stockings or socks), and then legs, does not affect the price. The pressure is the same in all models.

How to choose therapeutic underwear?

The choice of therapeutic knitwear is quite wide. Therefore, many people ask the question: what type of knitwear is better for varicose veins? To answer it, let's start with the fact that therapeutic compression hosiery of any kind is intended to stop the development of varicose veins, eliminate blood stagnation in the extremities and relieve it in the ankle area. And tights, stockings and knee socks do an excellent job with this task. The only difference between them is their length: the maximum length of golf is to the knee, stockings end at the upper thigh, and tights end at the waist. The choice of product based on this criterion is carried out depending on the location of the main signs of the disease. If the pattern of dilated veins is limited to the lower leg, then for an anti-varicose effect it is enough to purchase knee socks. If they have spread higher, then you should take care of stockings or tights. Here the choice depends only on your own preferences. Women's therapeutic stockings and tights can be either transparent or with patterns printed on them. Therapeutic underwear for men is made like regular knitwear to remain invisible.
Pharmacies and specialized salons offer therapeutic compression hosiery from various manufacturers. Compression in underwear of any brand is calculated with maximum accuracy. Therefore, stockings and tights from all companies have the same therapeutic effect. They differ mainly in design, duration of wear, and cost.

Relaxsan tights and stockings

Compression garments from an Italian manufacturer attract many Russian patients of phlebological clinics with relatively low prices. Their maximum cost does not exceed 1200 rubles. Models of various designs and all compression classes are offered. Their disadvantages are fragility (compression lasts no more than a month), slight discomfort in wearing and rapid wear.

Underwear for varicose veins Intex

The Russian company Intex is a worthy competitor to foreign companies, supplying high-quality underwear for varicose veins at a relatively low cost. It creates the necessary compression and has fairly high wear resistance. For an amount from 800 to 1300 rubles you can buy tights, stockings or knee socks made of excellent fabric, with high-quality seams and get the necessary therapeutic effect.

ORTO compression garments

Tights, stockings and knee socks from the Spanish company ORTO are mid-priced products. The minimum amount that you will have to pay for the simplest treatment pair varies from 400 to 700 rubles. All products are of good quality. The compression lasts up to 4 months, but they wear out quickly on the toes and feet.

Therapeutic knitwear Venotex

VenoteksTherapy compression garments (USA) are one of the most popular. It is represented by a wide range of models. All products of this brand are certified and comply with Russian State Standards. Stockings, tights and knee socks have an average degree of wear resistance. All models presented by Venotex have a relatively low cost:

from 650 rubles for stockings for prevention;
from 1600 rubles and above for models of 3rd compression class.

Anti-varicose knitwear Medi and Bauerfeind

For those who prefer higher quality knitwear, it is better to purchase products from one of the German companies Medi or Bauerfeind. The prices for the products of these companies are much higher (from 1,300 rubles), but they fully correspond to the quality of the products. All products are comfortable to wear, easy to care for, and have a high degree of wear resistance. Stockings, knee socks and tights have a great design. The model range of these companies includes underwear for travel and sports. To put on underwear with compression higher than class 2, you need to buy a special device from medi.

Therapeutic tights, stockings and knee socks Sigvaris

Elite medical underwear from the Swiss company Sigvaris is the most expensive of all types presented. It features minimal wear, high quality workmanship and excellent design. These are the main properties for which Russian customers must shell out from their wallets an amount from 2,500 to 4,500 rubles and more per pair. Since the compression inherent in the underwear and the therapeutic effect of wearing it do not differ from the pressure created by knitwear from other manufacturers.

When choosing compression garments, many people make the mistake of not knowing how they are labeled. Especially when buying it secondhand, in markets, etc., trying to save on your purchase. On the packaging of any type of therapeutic knitwear, the class of compression created is indicated, indicating the pressure in mmHg. Art. (or Pa). On ordinary tights, stockings or knee socks, the density of the fabric is shown in den. Therefore, you should refuse to purchase if tights in the nth number of deniers are offered as compression underwear. Hoping for a therapeutic effect from wearing them, you can worsen the condition of the veins.

How to choose the size of compression garments?

After you have chosen the company and model of the product, and received a recipe indicating the compression class, you need to decide on the size of the tights (stockings and golf). To do this, the following leg measurements are taken at home; For golf:

Circumference of the lower leg above the ankle (cm);
Circumference of the lower leg in the upper (wide) part, under the knee joint (cm).
Length from foot to knee joint.

For stockings:

To the first two measurements for golf, you must add the hip circumference at a height of 25 cm from the knee joint (standard figure). For a tall person, measurements are taken at a distance of 30 cm from the knee.
It is also necessary to measure the length of the leg to the point at which the thigh circumference is measured (or to the groin).

For tights, In addition to the measurements listed above, you will also need to measure the circumference of the waist and hips, as well as the length of the leg from the foot to the groin. To select stockings (and other underwear) of the right size, the data obtained is compared with those given in special size tables, which may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. When purchasing compression garments at an orthopedic salon, all you need to do is show your measurements to the consultant, and he will select the model of the required size. High-quality compression garments are quite expensive. But sometimes it happens that it causes discomfort while wearing. Even theoretically, correctly selected underwear can negatively affect the condition of the veins during use. Therefore, it is recommended to first purchase a cheaper model and get used to the sensations that arise when wearing compression garments. And only after that you can buy expensive anti-varicose tights or stockings for constant wear.

Compression garment size chart with digital designation

Compression garments for pregnant women

Wearing compression garments is recommended for ALL pregnant women.. In the first trimester, even if there are no obvious signs of varicose veins, it is recommended to use preventive knitwear. At later stages, you should use the recommendations of your treating physicians. Compression hosiery for pregnant women has significant differences from other types of medical underwear. Firstly, at the top of the tights there is an elastic bandage, the main function of which is to support the stomach without squeezing it. And secondly, fabrics with increased breathability are used for their manufacture. Many Women during pregnancy prefer wearing compression stockings. This is due to the fact that the enlarged belly does not fit into the leggings of the tights (it cannot stretch indefinitely). And not every expectant mother feels comfortable in special tights for pregnant women. And you can choose stockings taking into account physiological characteristics and your own preferences. They are offered in the following types:

Classic model;
With rubber band made of silicone;
On a special corset belt with Velcro fastener;
Open toe.

Video: how to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy?

When else should you wear compression stockings?

People need to create targeted pressure on the surface of the legs in order to normalize blood flow not only for diseases of the venous vessels, such as varicose veins. It can be used when losing weight to remove excess fluid and smooth out fat deposits in the form of folds. At the same time, thanks to the compression created, muscles and skin are massaged and toned. Special compression garments are recommended to be worn in the first month of the postpartum period. It helps prevent many serious complications, such as prolapse of the vaginal walls, prolapse of the uterus, etc. In addition, it supports the abdominal muscles, which were weakened during pregnancy. Compression garments for sports allow you to achieve greater results with less consumption of the body's energy reserves. It increases endurance, a person gets less tired, which means he can do more strength exercises.

How to wear compression garments?

Unlike regular ones, there are certain rules for putting on compression tights.

Any type of compression garment (tights, stockings, knee socks) is put on immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed.
This is done carefully, without excessive stretching or twisting.
First, assemble the upper part into an accordion.
Inserting the palms inside the tights (stockings), carefully put them on the foot, taking into account the location of the heel.
Gradually straightening it, pull it onto the shin.
On the hips, tights are also put on lying down, raising the torso as it approaches the waist.

Compression stockings for varicose veins are worn in the same way.
To make the process of putting on anti-varicose tights and stockings as easy as possible, you can purchase one of the special devices, for example medi Butler. They are produced for different categories of patients:

For people with large dimensions, the Big series device is intended;
For people with limited mobility - Longo series;
With a collapsible design, for travel - Travel Butler;
Hospitalbutler - with a sliding mechanism.

This company also offers a device that helps you remove medical underwear - medi Butler Off.

If there is no device for putting on anti-varicose tights (stockings), then when performing this procedure, manufacturers recommend using latex gloves so as not to damage the elastic fibers with your nails. All toenails should also be trimmed short and filed. The surface of corns and dry calluses should be smoothed.

Video: how to put on compression stockings correctly?

When a person is prescribed compression therapy for the first time, questions may arise regarding the use of therapeutic hosiery. For example, the patient bought knee socks, and the vein with varicose veins turned out to be just above the elastic band. Doubt arises. Do I need to wear the purchased item? – In this case, the affected vessel will be indirectly affected by normalizing blood flow in the lower part of the leg, and therefore the purchased product can be used. But it is highly recommended to try to purchase a product of the appropriate size. Many questions arise about Is it possible to wear stockings against varicose veins on swollen legs? In this case, phlebologists agree that it is not only possible, but also necessary. But this is quite difficult to do, since due to swelling the size of the leg is greatly increased. The question often arises: Why do you need to take off your stockings (knee socks) at night? – It is recommended to do this so that the skin of the legs can rest and breathe. When a person is in a horizontal position (with 1st and 2nd degrees of venous insufficiency), the underwear does not work, that is, compression is not created. Therefore, leaving it on the body is useless. However, if a person accidentally falls asleep in his underwear, there is no serious harm. The most common question is whether what underwear to wear on hot summer days. – Compression should continue in the summer. Moreover, higher temperatures provoke additional vasodilation. On particularly hot days, you can use lighter underwear, 1st class or preventative. Reducing compression in this case is preferable to not having it at all.

Caring for compression stockings

Any type of compression garment requires full care in order to maintain its healing properties for a long time.

It is recommended to wash compression garments daily by hand, without twisting or wringing them.
The water should be moderately warm (not higher than 40°).
Use liquid soap or shampoo for washing, as well as any other care product for delicate fabrics.
Do not use washing powders, bleaches, dry cleaning, hot drying or hanging in the sun.
Silicone elastic on stockings should be protected from any significant contact with water. Otherwise, it will lose its fixing qualities. Fat is removed from the silicone strip with a cotton pad soaked in any alcohol-containing liquid.

If you listen to the opinion of those who already have experience using compression garments, then it is better to purchase two pairs at once (for reliability and ease of care).

Video: phlebologist about compression garments

View compression products are prescribed by a doctor depending on the situation. So, for some people, using knee socks is enough. But, they often worsen the condition of the veins under the knee, since this area is considered a weak point. Therefore, in such a situation, it is recommended to use stockings. They have a length up to the middle of the thigh or to the groin area.
Today all manufacturers compression knitwear uses silicone elastic. But, if you are allergic to silicone or due to anatomical features, it is better to use this type of product such as tights.
Before choosing compression stockings, you need to familiarize yourself with some points.

1) Find out your compression stocking size

Sizing is related to the medical purpose of compression products. To obtain a therapeutic effect, a dosed distribution of pressure is necessary, which decreases towards the thigh. So, on the ankle and shin there should be 100% pressure, in the knee 70%, and in the hip area only 40%. For this reason, you need to choose the size of such stockings individually based on your leg parameters. Also, when choosing, you need to pay attention to the advice of a specific manufacturer. compression knitwear

Remember that size tables from different manufacturers differ, and the degree of complexity of the table determines the correct size of compression stockings, which guarantees a positive effect.
Size selection is carried out according to fundamental parameters, they can be measured with the help of a specialist compression knitwear or yourself. It is recommended to do this in the morning or half an hour after rest, raising your legs up to chest level.

It is necessary to take measurements of the circumference of the ankle, calves, knee joint and hip area (this is 5 cm below the groin area).

After this, you can use the manufacturer’s table to determine the size. In the case when the measurements are average between those indicated in the intervals, this means that such products will be as comfortable as possible. If the measurements obtained fall within the boundary values or generally fall into different size columns, then it is necessary to check the correctness of the measurements taken or seek help from a specialist who has experience in selecting compression products from a certain manufacturer.

It is not recommended to buy compression hosiery according to height and weight parameters, because it does not have medicinal properties. Basically, its purpose is the prevention of varicose veins.

2) Choosing a class of compression stockings

Compression hosiery can only be prescribed by a doctor, namely in cases where the compression class is more than 20 mmHg. A specialist such as a phlebologist who deals with venous diseases will help you choose the right compression class. He does an ultrasound, and based on its results, he assigns a class that will correspond a certain disease.

3) Compression stockings are not measured in deniers

Compression products must be of good quality, therefore meeting global standards for this type of product. Therefore, compression should be measured in millimeters of mercury (abbreviated as mm Hg, or mm Hg).
From this we can conclude that anti-varicose stockings, marked in dens, do not belong to medical products and do not have a therapeutic effect. Such knitwear can even cause harm. This occurs as a result of less compression pressure on the ankle than on the hip, leading to fluid retention and worsening of the condition.

The compression placement process is only possible using professional equipment For this reason, it is advisable to buy compression stockings from well-known and trusted manufacturers. and are anti-allergenic. Products are manufactured at specialized equipment using the most modern technologies, and the entire process is strictly controlled. All this leads to the fact that the cost of good compression stockings is quite high.

Organizations selling medical equipment offer therapeutic compression hosiery from various manufacturers. All products have clearly calculated compression. For this reason, the stockings have the same anti-varicose impact . And their difference lies in the design, duration socks, and price.

In the treatment of dilated and bulging veins, special medical underwear - compression tights or stockings - plays an important role. They will help not only at the initial stage of the disease, but will also ensure that the purple mesh does not spoil the appearance of the legs. Once you have decided which model to prefer and which manufacturer to choose, you need to select the right size.

Compression garments are prescribed by a doctor based on the complexity of the disease. A certain therapeutic effect can be achieved by choosing stockings of the required size. If the size is chosen incorrectly, the desired result will not be achieved, a large size will be useless, and a small size will cause inconvenience and may even cause harm to diseased veins.

The role of compression stockings in the treatment of varicose veins

In the successful treatment of varicose veins, various methods of therapy play a significant role, with the help of which you can achieve the desired result. Treatment with various medications - anti-inflammatory drugs, creams and gels for external use - has been successfully used. Good results are achieved by using folk remedies and recipes that will help relieve pain and inflammation in the veins at the initial stage of the disease. If the disease progresses and conservative treatment does not help, you can get rid of varicose veins using modern technologies - laser removal, stripping, sclerotherapy.

When using any of the above methods to achieve maximum effect, experts recommend wearing therapeutic underwear - stockings. When using the correct size, blood circulation in the legs is restored, which will significantly reduce dilated veins. Even the most modern and effective drugs cannot give the same result as compression stockings, which have a positive effect on the entire venous system. Such products contain practically no contraindications; they are prescribed to all patients with problem veins, pregnant women, and patients in the postoperative period.

Stockings are selected strictly individually, under the supervision of the attending phlebologist. Their action is aimed at restoring and normalizing blood flow in the legs.

Such products will be necessary for the following categories of people:

all patients with varicose veins;
those who are prone to problems at the hereditary level;
those whose work involves constantly sitting in one place, or who are on their feet for a long time;
who plays sports or has constant stress on their legs;
who suffers from excessive swelling of the lower extremities;
for those who have had vein surgery successfully, during the recovery period.

If the patient does not yet clearly have problems with the veins, but he complains of constant cramps, heaviness in the legs, discomfort, the appearance of spider veins, the doctor may prescribe medicinal underwear for preventive purposes.

And when diagnosing thrombosis, venous insufficiency, thrombophlebitis or reticular varicose veins, stockings must be worn.

Taking measurements correctly

Those patients who have encountered problems with varicose veins are primarily concerned with the question of how to choose compression stockings in size. There is nothing complicated about this, you need to know your personal parameters. To do this, you need to take certain measurements accurately and correctly.

It will not be entirely convenient to take measurements alone, so if you have a measuring tape with you, you should resort to outside help.

There is a method for measuring your leg for compression stockings:

The ankle is measured around the circumference. The exact volume of the narrowest part of the leg is important so that the stocking fits tightly.
The volume of the lower leg under the knee is recorded.
The circumference of the hips is measured. The size should be as accurate as possible, according to the parameters - no more than 25 centimeters above the knee, or no more than 5 centimeters below the buttocks.
It is necessary to calculate the exact length of the leg - the distance from the foot to the upper circumference of the thigh is measured. Accuracy in this measurement is necessary so that the product does not turn out to be too long and does not hang down.

Correctly and accurately taken measurements will help you choose medical underwear of the right size, which in the future will effectively perform the function of combating inflamed veins.

Selection of stockings by size

If the patient decides to use therapeutic knitwear in combination with conservative methods of treating varicose veins, an important point in addition to choosing a model and manufacturer is selecting the right size. Only if the size is correctly selected, stockings will not do any harm and will effectively solve the assigned problems.

Special elastic stockings are selected by the attending physician strictly individually, taking into account the complexity of the disease and what the therapy will immediately focus on. The precisely selected size and level of compression will not only create a feeling of comfort for the patient, but will also ensure an effective fight against vein problems.

Patients are provided with a special table of parameters for compression stockings, based on which they can choose a jersey of a suitable size, which will provide preventive measures to solve the problems of varicose veins, relieve swelling, and be effective in treating diseases associated with vein thrombosis. Blood circulation in the veins is normalized and the valve will be able to perform its functions normally only when the stockings fit tightly to the lower limbs and their size is selected correctly.

Accurate determination of the size of underwear is directly related to the medical functions of such products. To achieve the desired effect in treatment, the pressure in the stockings must be distributed so that it decreases towards the thighs. In the area of the ankle and shin the pressure will be the highest - up to 100%, in the knee area the average - about 70%, and on the hips the lowest - up to 40%. Therefore, knitwear is selected individually depending on the size and volume of the leg. When choosing a product, you should pay special attention to the recommendations of the manufacturer of this product.

When the necessary measurements on the leg are taken, they should be checked against the numbers provided in the table and find the right size. The results of measuring the calf, shin and thigh must correspond to the proposed data, only then the knitwear will fit completely.

For example, if the volume of the ankle is 26 cm, the calf is 40 cm, the hip is 60 cm, then size 3 (L) is suitable.

According to their density, stockings can be divided into several classes:

zero – characterized by a density of 13 to 15 mm Hg;
the first – has a density from 16 to 21 mm Hg;
the second – from 22 to 32 mm Hg;
third class – density from 33 to 46 mm Hg;
hospital knitwear – has parameters from 47 mm Hg or more.

Today, compression stockings have a wide range of models and colors. Even the most capricious and demanding woman will be able to find the right option for herself.

If the therapeutic knitwear is chosen correctly in size, such anti-varicose stockings will be convenient and comfortable, they will fit closely to the leg, will not bunch up along the length, and will not slip. Sometimes, even with the correct size chosen, the patient may experience some discomfort; this may be due to the structure of the knitwear, and over time everything should normalize.

If, when choosing the size of anti-varicose products, all the necessary parameters and conditions are taken into account and met, then there should be no difficulty in choosing the size of compression stockings.

Caring for therapeutic stockings

Compression hosiery has an effective therapeutic effect on diseases of the veins of the lower extremities, varicose veins, venous insufficiency, etc. It normalizes blood circulation, perfectly nourishes tissues, reduces swelling in the legs, and reduces the risk of blood clots. High-quality stockings are quite expensive, so only with proper care can they last longer.

The doctor, before prescribing these products to the patient, gives them complete instructions on how to put them on correctly, how to wear them, and how to care for them. The patient needs to learn how to properly put on such elastic products so that they fit tightly to the legs and the pressure is distributed evenly.

When the correct selection, careful wearing and proper care of compression stockings is carried out, their service life will be much longer. To achieve the desired result in the fight against swollen veins, and for the therapeutic stockings to last longer, you need to follow the rules for their use.

You need to put on stockings in the morning and preferably in bed;
hands should be undecorated so as not to damage the product;
the knitwear is immediately gathered to the socks from the top, and then only secured to the heels and toes;
then the product is pulled over the knee, straightening out all the folds on the lower leg;
only after this they straighten them on the hips;
Before going to bed, stockings are removed;
knitwear cannot be boiled, bleached or ironed;
Wash only by hand in warm water, dry in the usual way.

Knowing how to take correct measurements to choose compression stockings, now any patient will be able to purchase the necessary product. This knitwear will help eliminate

Instructions

Consult a phlebologist who, depending on the presence of pathologies and the degree of the disease, will prescribe the appropriate product for you. It is worth noting that, like other compression products, they can have both therapeutic and preventive effects. So, if you feel heaviness in your stomach, you often have swelling, you are pregnant or you have varicose veins at the initial stage, you will need preventive tights, the compression of which is from 18 to 21 millimeters of mercury. While compression tights of classes 2-4 are therapeutic, and their compression can reach over 49 millimeters of mercury.

Buy compression tights only at the pharmacy. In this case, pay attention to the warranty period given for this product. So, if the product is of high quality, then this period should not be from six months to 10 months. In addition, a very important detail is that compression tights (as well as) should only be knitted using seamless technology.

It is also worth noting that in medical knitwear, the elastic thread has a double braid made of natural, for example, rubber or cotton, or synthetic threads. If you are pregnant, then you should undoubtedly choose only natural materials.

The most important characteristic of any compression product and a guarantee of its safety and effectiveness is the standard, which is designated on the packaging as RAL (in some cases it may be written Quality mark RAL or RAL-GZ 387). Do not purchase tights that do not bear the mark of this standard, since it is its standards that regulate the composition and strength of the material and indicate that the product has been tested.

Pay attention to whether the packaging contains the inscription Oko-Tex Standard 100. This standard is no less strict than the previous one, and indicates that the products are made exclusively from materials that are environmentally fully compatible with the human body and do not contain any hazardous substances.

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note

How to correctly determine the size and choose compression tights, stockings, and knee socks. 5XXL – XXL 105 – and above. To select the appropriate size, we recommend using the size table below, in which the sizes of compression tights and stockings are determined depending on the ratio between height in centimeters (HEIGHT CM) and weight in kilograms (WEIGHT KG).

Helpful advice

Only a highly qualified doctor can prescribe medical compression stockings to a patient. Moreover, the specialist must first collect as much information as possible about his patient, get acquainted with his complaints, and assess his general health. And now we’ll talk a little about how to choose compression stockings for surgery or other types of similar products.

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how to determine the size of compression tights