Compression underwear is a special type of knitwear that is worn for the prevention and treatment of varicose veins. The choice of compression hosiery depends on various parameters - size, severity of the disease, the influence of harmful factors on the patient's health, the presence of complications. You can buy medicinal linen in pharmacies and orthopedic salons. Stockings and tights for varicose veins are sold without a prescription, but it is advisable to buy them as prescribed by a doctor so that it is easier to pick them up.

Why do you need compression garments?

The development of varicose veins and its complications is associated with damage to the valve apparatus of the veins lower limbs, decreased blood flow in deep veins and blood overflow of superficial vessels. Thus, conditions are created for the appearance on the skin. If the disease is left untreated, it progresses, causing not only cosmetic defects, but also serious disturbances in blood flow.

Before choosing a compression hosiery, it is necessary to decide what kind of violations have occurred in the body, and what type of underwear is needed. Compression products squeeze the subcutaneous vessels with a certain force, preventing them from increasing in size. It is on this that their effect is based - compression stockings, like a cuff, squeeze blood from superficial veins into deep ones, restoring normal blood flow.

Tights, stockings, knee-highs

Compression stockings are the most common anti-varicose products. They provide compression of the skin along the entire length of the leg from toe to thigh. They are produced with different compression forces, differ in compression class, size, appearance... There are models with additional embellishments or an openwork top with an elastic band. Even if you choose the right compression stockings, they cause some discomfort when wearing - they are quite hot in them, and problems with lymph drainage may arise.

Tights for varicose veins are used when wearing stockings is not enough. For example, when it is necessary to exert an impact not on one leg, but on both, and at the same time additionally strengthen the muscles abdominal and small pelvis. Before choosing compression tights for varicose veins, you need to make sure that they do not have harmful effects on the abdominal organs.

Medical knee-highs are necessary for the same as compression stockings, but they affect only the vessels of the lower leg. They deliver less inconvenience and are easier to purchase, because choosing the size of compression golf is somewhat easier than other products.

Compression classes and sizes

The most important thing that worries patients before choosing a compression garment is how different their different models differ? First of all, it is necessary to decide on two such important parameters as the compression class and the size of the product.

The compression class is the force of impact with which the linen squeezes the superficial vessels. To choose the right compression stockings, you need to know which compression class is required. They are distinguished by several, denoted by numbers from 0 to 3, anti-embolic jersey is separately distinguished. The table below shows the compression classes, the force of impact and the indications for them, in order to answer the question of how to choose the right compression stockings.

The table below shows the compression classes, the force of impact and the indications for them, in order to answer the question of how to choose the right compression stockings.

Compression class	Easy degree (0)	First class (1)	Second class (2)	Third grade (3)
Indications	Features of work; Excess weight; Pregnancy; Long trips; Unfavorable hereditary factors; Swelling on the legs	The initial stages of varicose veins; Work associated with being constantly on your feet; Postoperative period	Progression of varicose veins; Postoperative period; Complications of pregnancy	Severe varicose veins; Complications of varicose veins
Compression force	Up to 10mm Hg	Up to 20mm Hg	Up to 30mm Hg	Up to 60mm Hg

Anti-embolic hosiery has a third class of compression, and is used in cases where its use will be short-term. To select the size of these products, use the same rules as when selecting other compression hosiery. You should ask your doctor about how to choose compression products. Assigning a certain class of compression, he focuses not only on the indications, but also on the features of the course of the disease in a particular patient.

It is not difficult to choose the size of compression products. Usually it is indicated on the package, and in order to determine which one you need, you need to measure several parameters of your leg. Be sure to do it in the morning, before the start. physical activity when the swelling is minimal.

To determine the size of compression stockings, tights or golf, you need to know your shoe size - that part of the product that fixes it on the foot is designed for it. Another measurement required for all types of knitwear is the ankle and calf circumference. The measurement of these parameters is the same - it is necessary to select the most protruding part, and then measure it with a centimeter.

How to choose compression products by length? To do this, it is necessary to measure the length of the leg from the hip to the heel if compression stockings or anti-varicose tights are needed. How to choose a golf size? In this case, the length is measured only to the knee.

The size of compression tights and stockings is also determined by the circumference of the thigh below the buttocks. When the question is how to choose compression knee-highs, this parameter, of course, is not taken into account. Armed with the measurement results, product packaging with the necessary data and a doctor's prescription, it is easy to understand how to choose the right compression stockings.

Indications and contraindications

Having figured out how to determine the size of compression products, you need to ask one more important issue- when are they not allowed to be worn? There is only one indication for wearing it - the prevention and treatment of varicose veins:

• in the presence of risk factors;
• during operations, long-term hospital treatment;
• with an already existing disease, in order to prevent its progression;
• in the postoperative period after surgical treatment of varicose veins.

Before choosing compression knee-highs, stockings or tights, it is important to check with your doctor which ones are recommended in this case. The use of products with insufficient compression is ineffective, and excessive pressure causes disturbances in lymph flow.

Compressive jersey should not be worn with active, skin damage, inflammatory processes. In this case, compression should be abandoned altogether.

Sometimes it happens that the size of compression stockings is suitable for the lower leg, but not for the thigh, affected by edema, or vice versa. In this case, they are replaced with elastic bandages, which do not have a fixed size, and their impact force depends on the tension.

In cases where it is important how to choose the right compression tights during pregnancy and after caesarean section, are guided by the necessary compression of the abdominal cavity. If this force is not enough, then the tights are replaced with stockings and a bandage separately from each other.

If the size of the compression stockings is chosen incorrectly, then a complete fit of the leg is not achieved, and, therefore, the therapeutic effect. If the medical products turned out to be small, then the compression is excessive, which manifests itself as a deformation of the limb, pulling pains, and a feeling of numbness in the legs.

How to wear it correctly?

Having figured out how to choose compression knee-highs and other knitwear, it is important to clarify such points as the wearing mode. As a rule, medical linen is worn for 8-12 hours a day, and must be removed at night. With exacerbations and severe varicose veins, this period can be extended to 14-18 hours a day. After surgical removal of dilated veins, compression is prescribed around the clock for a month. During this period, you can only take off the medical jersey for taking a shower.

During postoperative or postpartum period if it proceeds without complications, and the patient does not have already formed varicose veins, wearing compression underwear for prophylactic purposes is about a week or less.

Doctors are sure that compression socks for varicose veins can not only prevent the disease, but also significantly improve drug treatment.

However, the cost of medical jersey in last years has greatly increased, so many patients try to do without special golfs and stockings.

Phlebologists still recommend buying compression knee socks or stockings and to properly care for the product in order to extend its service life, since the production technology of such underwear is unique and it is difficult to replace it with other means.

Compression stockings

Navigating the article

Stockings rank first in popularity... Socks are not much behind them. To make it clearer, stockings are underwear that ends above the knee, and knee-highs only cover the lower leg. These two concepts are often confused among patients, despite the difference in price and length of the product itself. The area behind and above the knee, which is covered by compression stockings, is very important, as varicose veins often occur there.

If you are in doubt about which medical jersey to choose, feel free to give preference to stockings.

The effect of compression stockings and the purpose of wearing them

Compression helps not only to reduce unpleasant symptoms, but also to stop further varicose veins. The main problem with varicose veins is the loss of elasticity of the veins due to increased blood pressure. Unable to withstand the load, the walls of the vessel stretch, resulting in the formation of nodes and areas of stagnation.

Compression knitwear is made of special threads and using a special technology, due to which it has a squeezing effect.

This helps to artificially maintain the vessels in good shape and prevent them from expanding. The pressure is not evenly distributed, but mimics a natural process. The greatest load falls on the lower parts of the legs, so there the compression is maximum.

The purpose of wearing all such items is to ease the work of the veins.... The category of patients who should wear them depends on the degree of pressure that stockings or leggings create from varicose veins. The more pronounced the pathology, the more pressure should be created on the vessels.

Medical jersey is prescribed and selected exclusively by a doctor. You can independently choose only a product for preventive purposes.

Indications for use

Compression knee socks are used for the treatment and prevention of vascular diseases. These include:

1. Varicose veins.
2. Venous insufficiency.
3. Thrombophlebitis.

In addition, such products of various lengths are popular with tourists and athletes, as they help prevent problems not only with blood vessels, but also with joints.

Medical jersey is absolutely safe and very effective provided the right choice products.

Classification of stockings and rules for their selection

To choose the right stockings, you need to be able to choose the degree of compression and size. For preventive purposes, you should buy products with minimal compression. If underwear is necessary for treatment, the choice depends on the stage of development of varicose veins:

1. initial stage or prevention of disease in patients who are at risk (poor heredity, obesity, standing work). Recommended underwear with compression 8-22 mm Hg. Art.
2. Second stage with pronounced manifestations, as well as the period after vascular surgery. It is better to choose jersey with compression values ​​of 23-32 mm Hg.
3. With severe course when the disease is accompanied by trophic disorders and significant edema, it is necessary to wear underwear with maximum pressure (34 and above).

The size of the product is selected according to individual measurements. To select the stockings, the patient will need the values ​​for the circumference of the thigh, the lower leg and the area under the kneecap, as well as the length of the leg from heel to knee and from heel to the place where the stocking is injected.

Stocking wear rules

All medical jersey must be worn daily from morning to evening. They put it on immediately after waking up in the supine position, until they have had time to form stagnation in the lower extremities.

The jersey must not be damaged, so dress and wear it carefully. Women often use their fingernails to set holds, and then pull out the protruding strings. This is absolutely impossible to do.

To increase the service life of the stockings, ordinary socks will help, which can be worn on top of medical underwear to protect it from wear on the foot.

How much to wear compression hosiery? The product must be worn all day long and may only be removed at night. According to the duration of use, the period is unlimited - the underwear is worn until the veins fully return to a healthy state, and even after that for the purpose of prevention.

Donning rules

The compression hosiery must be properly positioned on the legs so that the correct pressure is applied to each area. It is difficult to put on such underwear, since it contains elastane threads. The donning process should be as follows:

1. Place your hand inside the laundry and turn it inside out.
2. Slip it over your foot and pull it up to distribute it evenly.
3. Pull the stocking up to the ankle and straighten the part that is located on the foot again.
4. Pull the turned-over side up your leg. Try to do this with your fingertips and do not touch the fabric with your nails.
5. Put on the product in stages to the end, and then straighten the folds.

Stocking care rules

It is imperative to wash the product, like any clothing. However, only hand washing is allowed, which uses gentle agents and avoids active chemicals. Wringing out and twisting is not recommended. Dry the compression hosiery on a towel at normal room temperature.

Stocking firms

The quality and price of compression hosiery varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some of them use antiseptic additives and create unique models. Popular are:

1. Valento... Their knitwear has a massage effect and contains natural flax fibers.
2. Ofa Bamberg... Produces high quality products, presents the patient with a wide range of colors and materials.
3. Venoteks... The price of the products is not high, but they all have international quality certificates. The linen has an average wear resistance, especially with frequent washing and careless handling.
4. Medi... One of the largest manufacturers of high quality compression products. The company uses modern technologies and takes into account the needs of customers. Lingerie is highly effective in the treatment of varicose veins, which is confirmed by positive feedback from people after use.
5. Relaxsan... The brand is popular due to the low cost of products, but the quality is poor and the healing effect is usually short-lived.

Which firm is the best? First of all, the product should be selected according to the degree of compression so that the therapeutic effect is observed. Further, the choice is based on the patient's personal preferences, where the price and appearance of the model play the main role.

The knitwear of European companies, as a rule, lasts a long time and justifies its high cost, therefore it is more preferable.

What are the best stockings for childbirth?

During pregnancy and childbirth, the load on the vessels increases many times over. If the woman already has vein problems, the delivery should take place in compression socks or stockings.

For this, special models are selected - antiembolic (hospital) ones. They also have tightening properties and have different degrees of compression, but the pressure in the product is evenly distributed along the entire length. The same medical linen is used for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins in bedridden patients.

Without special protective underwear, they are dangerous with complications. With severe pathologies, there is a possibility of rupture of blood vessels in places of thinning of the venous wall.

Which is better: stockings, tights or knee-highs?

If the product is necessary for prophylaxis, then the choice is made based on the personal preferences of the woman. For medicinal purposes, underwear should be selected so that it covers the area where varicose veins are located.

If the problem is located on the lower leg, wearing compression socks will suffice. If varicose veins protrude beyond the knee or higher, stockings or even tights should be chosen.

Some patients buy regular jersey instead of special jersey elastic bandage... It really helps to keep blood vessels in good shape and reduces unpleasant symptoms. However, for a therapeutic effect, you need to know, observing the rules for the distribution of pressure.

How to wear and don a compression garment after surgery

After surgery, the risk of blood clots or inflammation in the vessels always increases. To prevent stagnation of blood in the lower extremities and reduce the load on the veins, patients should wear compression garments.

They put on medical jersey before the operation, and take them off - with the permission of the doctor. In some cases, this occurs immediately after discharge, in others, after a few months.

Difference between men's and women's tights

Of course it does. However, it occurs much less frequently than in women. Companies that produce medical products against varicose veins take into account the preferences of patients and offer a separate line of men's underwear.

The differences between the models are insignificant. They have:

1. Classic colors.
2. Increased foot size.
3. Plain textiles without pretentious patterns.
4. On men's tights, there may be an additional fastener at the waist.

Varicose veins develop gradually, so the patient does not notice the problem immediately. The dilated areas of the veins negatively affect the neighboring healthy areas of the vessels, which leads to the spread of the pathological process.

There is no magic pill that will quickly restore tone to the venous walls. The only safe and comfortable treatment that will give noticeable results is the use of compression garments. Putting it on in the morning will support your veins for the whole day and accelerate the positive dynamics of medication.

In addition to medical jersey, phlebologists recommend revising your lifestyle and diet, using orthopedic insoles, go in for swimming and take drugs from the group of venotonics.

Video how to wear compression hosiery correctly

In the video, the doctor will show you how to properly wear compression stockings and knee-highs

In contact with

Compression knee socks act on the calf region of the leg, support the blood vessels and prevent them from deforming from blood pressure.

Compression narrows the veins, superficial vessels and intermuscular venous plexuses and provides support for the valves, which increases the rate of blood outflow and reduces the risk of blood clots.

Compression knitwear has special healing properties.

Mechanism of action: creates a carefully calculated pressure on the veins of the lower extremities. The pressure is uneven: 100% - the lower part of the lower leg, 70% - on calf muscle, 40% - on the thigh.

As a result, a kind of framework is created that "supports" the veins and normalizes blood flow. The blood flows in only one direction, and the legs do not hurt or swell.

Important! Compression hosiery creates all the conditions for the veins to work properly and helps to normalize the tone of the venous system.

Contraindications

Absolutely contraindicated in atherosclerosis, endoarteritis, aortoarteritis and thromboangiitis obliterans. Relative contraindications for diabetes mellitus, since the vessels of the legs are affected in diabetes. Use with caution in case of dermatitis, bedsores and open wounds.

Compression classes

Socks from varicose veins differ in the degree of compression. Sold in specialized orthopedic pharmacies.

Important! Compression hosiery can be therapeutic and prophylactic. Curative is dispensed only with a doctor's prescription, prophylactic can be bought on the free market.

Class 1 products with a pressure of 18-22 mm Hg. Art. can be purchased independently, without a doctor's prescription. They are prescribed for 1 and 2 degrees of varicose veins.

With a compression pressure of 24-32 mm Hg. Art. linen belongs to the 2nd class. Dispensed in specialized stores with a prescription.

Class 3 includes products that exert a pressure of 33-45 mm Hg. Art. Released strictly according to the prescription, indicated for chronic varicose veins and deep vein lesions with blood clots.

Important! With an insignificant degree of compression, knitwear is classified as preventive.

Sizes of linen

After receiving a doctor's prescription indicating the compression class, you need to decide on the size. For this, foot measurements are taken:

• measurement a: shin circumference at the bottom of the leg, just above the bone
• measurement b: shin circumference above the knee joint

Knee-highs for women

Products differ in color, the presence of patterns and prints, so they practically do not differ from the usual elements of a woman's wardrobe.
Important! Compression garments reduce the likelihood of thrombosis and reduce the swelling of the veins.

Knee-highs for men

Men suffer from varicose veins less often than women. And they wear anti-varicose knee-highs under their clothes. Therefore, manufacturers are trying to make them as invisible and convenient as possible.

Externally, men's compression socks are no different from ordinary socks.

Basically, the coloristic design of products for men is simple, quieter, neutral colors and does not stand out against the background of ordinary clothes.

Knee-highs with zippers are popular among men who have to wear compression class 3 underwear, as they fit very tightly to the legs. Zippers are almost invisible, as they are located on the inner or outside calf.

Manufacturers

List of the most popular compression golf manufacturers:

Venoteks ("Venoteks")- production is based in the United States of America and Germany, based on clinical trials, products for men and women are used in postoperative recovery. The socks are of good quality but pricey.

Medi- the largest developer and manufacturer (Germany). Has a wide range of models and excellent German quality. Prices for models from 1500 to 2700 rubles. Recommended for purchase.

Relaxan- the Italian manufacturer produces a wide range of comfortable products with a three-month guarantee, there are many men's models in the collection.

Latvian brands Sigvaris and Tonus Elast present high quality products for women and men with a six-month lifespan, the line includes models with specially designed heels and toes;

Elasma knee-highs- products of a Russian company located in the Bryansk province, models for women and men have a good healing effect; Optimal in terms of price and quality.

Attention! It is necessary to wear compression hosiery at any stage of varicose veins. It will help to normalize the work of the veins, relieve swelling and heaviness in the legs.

How to put on compression knee socks

Knee-highs are hard enough to put on the leg, they adhere very tightly to the skin surface. They should not be pulled strongly upward, as tissue fibers can be destroyed.

Remove all jewelry from hands before putting on. Gently twist the knee-highs and put them on the foot, fixing the heel. Spread the product on your leg, stretch it evenly and remove the wrinkles that have formed.

What knee-highs to wear in summer

Socks are made exclusively from synthetic materials. This is due to the fact that natural materials cannot provide the required compression class. Golf gets hot in summer, does not absorb moisture and has poor ventilation.

Manufacturers produce special summer compression socks. They are available only in the first compression class.

In the summer, it is impossible to completely abandon compression underwear, especially during periods of exacerbation. Therefore, it is better to wear first class than nothing at all.

Some companies produce open-toe summer knee-highs that increase comfort and ventilation.

Is it possible to sleep in compression socks

When the body is upright, the valves of the leg veins are not stressed. Therefore, with varicose veins of 1 and 2 degrees, it is not required to sleep in compression hosiery. Another thing is varicose veins of the 3rd and 4th degrees. If there are large convex vascular nodes, it is advisable to sleep in golf. They will help to normalize the tone of the vascular walls.

Before surgery to remove varicose veins, doctors recommend wearing compression hosiery around the clock.

Which is better - knee-highs or stockings

Anti-varicose corrective knee-highs and stockings are used for the same purpose - to eliminate leg edema and remove stagnation of blood in the veins. The main difference is that the knee socks end under the knee, and the stockings end in the waist area.

Stockings are used if varicose veins are located above the knee. If lower, it is better to wear knee-highs.

Stockings are used during operations and in the postoperative period. And if the varicose veins have spread to the thigh area.

Useful video: how to choose the right compression hosiery

thanks

The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!

Varicose veins of the legs is an extremely common pathology. According to statistics, 40% of women and 10% of men suffer from this disease. In this case, the disease makes itself felt long before old age. It can also lead to disability. From complications of varicose veins every year in Russian Federation killing 250,000 people.

Like most diseases, varicose veins develop gradually. Therefore, it is imperative to take all reasonable steps to prevent and treat it. The safest and effective method treatment and prevention of this disease is the use of compression hosiery: stockings, tights, golfs.

What is compression hosiery? What is the effect of the application
compression socks?

Compression hosiery is used in the treatment and prevention of venous pathologies of the lower extremities. The determining factor in the development of diseases of the blood vessels of the legs is a decrease in their elasticity under constant blood pressure. Compression knitwear supports the vessels from the outside, preventing their walls from stretching.

Within a few minutes after putting on compression knee-highs, swelling significantly decreases, heaviness in the legs decreases and an improvement occurs. With regular use of these products, even trophic ulcers disappear, and no longer appear, at least as long as a person applies medical compression.

The distributed pressure of all compression products, including socks, decreases from bottom to top. It is maximum at the ankle. Under the knee, where golf ends, the pressure is only 70% of the pressure at the ankle. Thus, with any activity, an additional impulse is created, which helps the musculo-venous pump to pump blood upward to the heart.

These products have found their application not only in the treatment of varicose veins. Compression knee socks are often used by tourists and athletes, because this type of knitwear optimally distributes the load on the legs and prevents them from slipping in the shoes.

At the moment, therapeutic compression is recognized as the most effective, no side effects, non-surgical method of treatment and prevention of varicose veins. Its effectiveness has been proven everywhere. In developed countries, for preventive purposes, compression products, incl. knee-highs are used already at the age of 18-20 years. Observations show that surgical manipulations with veins are extremely rare there.

Regular compression hosiery, which creates the same compression over the entire length of the legs, is more likely to have a negative effect than a positive one. Medical knitwear, in turn, restores metabolism and reduces the likelihood of blood clots.

Contraindications to the use of compression golf

The use of compression golf is allowed for any form of venous insufficiency, and in the overwhelming majority of cases does not have side effects.

The healing effect of compression hosiery is as follows:

• creating constant uniform pressure on the surface of the legs;
• vein support;
• redistribution of blood flow from enlarged veins to normal;
• stimulation of blood circulation;
• optimization of tissue nutrition;
• prevention of thrombus formation.

However, there are a number of factors in the presence of which compression socks are used with caution, and only on the recommendation of the attending physician.

The absolute contraindications to the use of compression golf include chronic diseases of the arteries of the lower extremities, due to a decrease in the lumen of blood vessels with systolic blood pressure below 80 mm Hg:

• aortoarteritis;
• thromboangiitis obliterans;

Relative contraindications for the use of compression golf:

• Eczema, necrosis, open wound surfaces, congestive dermatitis, acute thrombophlebitis.
• It is not recommended to use it for inflammatory and trophic skin pathologies with high infectious contamination.
• Use with caution in patients with sensitive skin. To do this, you should study the reviews about the products of a particular manufacturer.
• Cardiopulmonary failure, if symptoms of circulatory disorders are detected at rest.
• Diabetes mellitus, in case of vascular complications on the legs.
• Inflammation of a vein with signs of a septic process.

Attention! If relative contraindications are identified, then the use of compression golf is permissible on the recommendation of the following specialists:

Men's Compression Knee Socks

Men's compression knee-highs (male shin bandage) are useful for men in that they help to cope with varicose veins, and at the same time are not visible to others.

Unlike women's compression socks, the men's lineup is far from wide. And this is not surprising, since men are less likely to get sick with varicose veins. In addition, they wear compression hosiery under their clothes. Therefore, manufacturers of men's anti-varicose golfs, first of all, try to make them as comfortable and invisible to others as possible.

Work for men is often associated with lifting weights, prolonged stay in sitting position(driving, at the computer), with walking long distances and other risk factors that exert a prolonged load on the vessels of the legs.

Depending on the stage of varicose veins, the attending physician may recommend knee-highs of I, II, III and even IV compression class.

Quality men's compression socks are made in such a way that they look like regular men's socks. No one from the outside will even think that you are wearing anti-varicose knee-highs.

Maternity compression knee socks

Pregnancy is a period in a woman's life when health care becomes of great importance. Many pregnant women are faced with the problem of the rapid progression of varicose veins - spider veins and varicose asterisks appear on their legs. There are many methods recommended for the prevention of varicose veins during pregnancy. The use of varicose jersey is today considered one of the most effective and safe methods. Most of the well-known manufacturers produce compression products designed specifically for pregnant women.

Special anti-varicose knee-highs for pregnant women provide optimal compression around the shins and ankles. These are the areas where the maximum load falls, especially in the third trimester. More than half of the women surveyed report edema, weakness and heaviness in the legs. Many people are forced to buy new shoes, because due to swelling, the foot ceases to fit in the shoe.

Before buying knee-highs, a woman is advised to consult her attending physician. It will help you determine the compression grade that suits your medical condition.

Compression knee socks - how to choose?

Determining the size of compression socks

Compression knee socks are medical supplies. Therefore, their application should provide therapeutic effect... To do this, the golf pressure must be evenly distributed.

If the knee-highs are close to the body and are optimally suited to the given body proportions, the maximum therapeutic effect is achieved.

To determine the exact size of golf, you need to take measurements. This requires a centimeter, a notebook and a pen.

Below are tables to determine required size golf based on measurement data. First, there is a table for preventive compression golf, creating a pressure of 15-18 mm Hg. Below - for medical golf, creating a pressure from 18-22 to 34-46 mm Hg. (from one to three compression classes), according to the RAL-GZ 387 standard.
Take the measurements required in the table:
1. Measurement a done on the ankle, slightly above the bone.
2. Measurement b is done at the widest point of the lower leg.

Record the results. Compare the obtained data with those indicated in the table.

Sizing of Prophylactic Compression Products:

Determination of the size of medical compression products:

The top line of both tables shows the size: 1 (S), 2 (M), 3 (L), 4 (XL). The rest of the indicators reflect the intervals of the lengths of the circles corresponding to a particular size.

Let's look at an example. We will use the table "Medical compression socks": the numbers 35-38 indicate that size 2 (M) corresponds to the circumference of the lower leg from 35 to 38 cm. In other words, if the circumference of your lower leg at its widest point (measurement b) is 36 cm, then your parameters are in the range of 35-38 cm, and your golf size around the shin circumference is 2 (M). In the same way, you should decide on the size around the circumference of the ankle just above the bone ankle(measurement a).

Then, make sure that all the data you capture is the same size - if so, that size is ideal for you.

Compression classes. Determining the required compression class

The compression class reflects the total pressure exerted on the surface of the leg when wearing compression golf. In this case, it is measured in millimeters of mercury. On golf socks for therapeutic purposes, the pressure is indicated in this unit of measurement. And medical compression hosiery is never marked in denominations.

Den (den) is a unit for measuring the density of the texture of a fabric - i.e. the ratio of the weight of the threads to their total length. It must be remembered that this characteristic does not reflect the medicinal properties of the product, in particular the level of compression.

Thus, if you are offered a 130 denier compression hosiery product, then it is not curative, and will be useless in the treatment of vascular insufficiency.

The best way to determine the individually required compression class is to consult a phlebologist. He will not only help you determine the required compression class, but will also recommend a specific medication if needed.

As a rule, in the early stages, a person evaluates the areas of varicose veins as a cosmetic defect, and mainly because they do not experience those symptoms characteristic of the later stages, which would force them to immediately seek medical advice. The use of compression golf of the first and second degrees of compression significantly improves well-being, and makes it possible to avoid the occurrence of irreversible and extremely unpleasant complications.

At the same time, in the absence of contraindications, you can buy and start using anti-varicose knee-highs even before visiting a doctor. After all, it is better to go to the doctor for examination, having protected the legs with compression hosiery, than to expose your vessels to a heavy load on a daily basis. But for this you need to familiarize yourself with the compression classes of medical products made of compression hosiery.

The main risk factor in women is pregnancy. If a woman had varicose veins before pregnancy, then during the period of gestation she is recommended to wear special anti-varicose jersey for pregnant women, not lower than the first compression class.

A tangible load on the veins is exerted by:

• work associated with a constant sitting or standing position;
• long journeys, flights (when the legs are practically numb, and it is often impossible to stretch or walk);
• fitness classes;
• lifting and carrying weights;
• long walks, hikes.

According to the international standard RAL-GZ 387, there are four compression classes - first, second, third and fourth. Also, manufacturers of compression products make prophylactic anti-varicose knitwear for all people who experience high loads on the vessels of the legs. The pressure created by preventive golf reaches 15-18 mm Hg. It is practically not felt by the skin, but at the same time it supports the veins from excessive stretching and injury.

Preventive anti-varicose jersey is intended for people who do not yet suffer from varicose veins, but:

• have a genetic predisposition to venous pathologies;
• show a tendency to be overweight;
• suffer from constipations;
• blood shows high clotting properties;
• associated with "standing" work.

Preventive compression socks in such cases prevent the occurrence of chronic vascular insufficiency.

First class compression with a pressure of 18-22 mm Hg is usually intended for the category of patients who have the initial symptoms of varicose veins:

• veins under the skin on the legs stand out clearly;
• vascular asterisks are expressed;
• stretched veins up to 5 cm;
• burning sensation, bloating, coldness in the feet and ankles;
• pain in the legs after a static load (standing, sitting);
• swelling in the area of ​​the foot or ankles in the evening.

Second class of compression with a pressure of 23-32 mm Hg, intended for regular use under the following conditions:

• pain syndrome develops in the calves and feet after a static load (standing, sitting);
• stretching areas of veins more than 5 cm;
• multiple dilated veins;
• varicose veins;
• cramps in calves at night, accompanied by pain;
• edema in the area of ​​the foot and ankles (as a symptom of chronic venous insufficiency, or after injury);
• there was an operation on the veins of the legs (including sclerotherapy).

Jersey third class of compression with a distributed pressure of 34-46 mm Hg are used only as directed by a phlebologist. Class III compression knee-highs are necessary in the following cases:

• post-thrombotic disease;
• swelling and obvious trophic symptoms;
• deep vein thrombosis;
• lymphatic and venous insufficiency;
• for compression therapy after leg vein surgery.

With this information, it will be easier for you to make the choice of the product you need, and to do everything necessary, without bringing it to the moment when you need the help of a surgeon.

How to wear compression knee socks correctly?

Compression knee-highs are medical devices, the beneficial effect of which is to apply even pressure to the surface of the leg. This pressure must be declared by the manufacturer and tested on special equipment.

It means that:
1. Compression knee socks are difficult to put on the leg, as they tend to fit very tightly to the surface of the leg.
2. They should not be pulled up too much, as tissue fibers can be destroyed and the beneficial effect will be lost.

Many pharmacies sell special fittings for donning compression hosiery. However, in practice they are not always available.

• Pay attention to the condition of your fingernails and toenails. It is preferable that they are trimmed evenly and finished with a nail file.
• Examine the skin on your feet. In the presence of corns, corns and rough areas, it is necessary to smooth them out. Such defects can lead to stretch marks and tears on the product. Therefore, the smoother and smoother the surface of the foot, the longer the socks will last.
• It is necessary to remove the rings from the fingers - they can break the fabric.
• Use gloves. Ordinary medical or household gloves are suitable - the main thing is that they are securely attached to the hand and do not create inconvenience. As you gain experience in using the product, gloves will no longer be necessary. But if you have expensive manicure and long nails, then you must use gloves!
• Knee-highs should be worn dry and only on dry skin to minimize friction when donning.
• Legs should be rested when putting on the golf. It is recommended to raise them above the midline of the body, and hold it for 5-10 minutes. This will help reduce swelling and reduce swelling of the veins. People who are advised to continuously use compression products are advised to wear the product in the morning without getting out of bed. This will optimize golf performance.
• When putting on, the legs must be placed horizontally, or slightly raised. In this case, the legs should not be lowered down.

Do not pull these products up by the edges. Therefore, they are put on from the foot.

Generally accepted method of putting on compression socks:
1. Turn the golf inside out to the heel.
2. We insert the foot into the track, and carefully flatten the fabric so that the foot fits comfortably along its entire length.
3. Then, with our palms, we slightly stretch the golf on the leg, while simultaneously turning it to the right side.
4. We level the compression knee socks from ankle to knee. Straighten the folds if they appear. It takes a little training, but over time you will learn how to do it quickly and correctly - the main thing is to understand the principle.

Be patient with your compression hosiery. Especially this recommendation refers to persons using products of the second compression class and above. Treat putting on golf like light morning exercises.

Important! If the doctor has prescribed you knee-highs of the third or fourth compression class, then it is better to buy special devices for putting them on at the pharmacy, since it will be extremely difficult to do without them.

The method described above is classic. It is recommended by the manufacturers of compression products, and therefore is considered the only correct one. Additional methods are described for donning anti-varicose stockings or pantyhose.

Compression Knee Socks - Video

How to Extend the Life of Compression Golfs?

There are a number of rules, compliance with which will maximize the life of compression hosiery products:

• Everyday golf washing is compulsory. This is necessary because dust particles, sebum and peeling skin particles have a mechanical effect on the knitted fabric and render it unusable faster than even detergents.
• Compression knee socks are recommended to be washed by hand using mild detergents such as baby soap.
• The use of rinses and conditioners is not recommended, as they usually destroy the fabric, as a result of which the compression effect is lost.
• It is not recommended to dry knee-highs in a suspended state, as well as with a stream of hot air, in the sun and a radiator. After washing, the knee-highs are gently wrung out in a towel, leveled and placed on a flat surface without twisting.
• The compression hosiery should not be heated above 40 ° C, much less boiled. Also, knee-highs cannot be bleached or ironed.
• Socks should not be dry cleaned.
• The silicone rubber bands found on some brands of golf must not be allowed to come into contact with water. To clean them, use a cotton cloth soaked in alcohol.

Let's take a closer look at the above rules:
1. How to wash silicone rubber compression knee socks without getting water on it?
This is not an easy task. With a thin elastic band or thread, squeeze the stocking 2 centimeters below the silicone rubber. Such a constriction during washing will not allow water to penetrate into the part covered with silicone. Everything below the knot - we carefully wash it by hand so that water does not penetrate above it. This will keep the silicone dry. Then we treat the gum with a solution of alcohol, removing sebum, and possibly water drops with a detergent.
Attention: If the fat is not removed from the silicone layer, it first prevents the silicone from adhering to the skin, and after a while destroys it. Detergents reduce the elasticity and softness of the silicone.

2. If funds permit, purchase two pairs of golf. You can not immediately, but after a while. And wear them every other day. Wear one pair of compression golf, the other - washed and dried, resting. Thus, you can use two pairs of golf such a time during which you would have to buy 3-4 pairs in turn.

3. Read all the manufacturer's recommendations for product care. All recommendations should be followed without exception. One systematic violation can make all other efforts useless. Subsequently, a rather expensive product will last no more than two months.

What kind of knee-highs to wear in summer?

Many people who have used anti-varicose knee-highs of various manufacturers in the summer season, claim that at temperatures above 20 ° C, it becomes hot in them.

This is because medical compression socks are made from artificial materials that traditionally do not provide adequate ventilation and do not absorb moisture.

Unfortunately, natural materials are not suitable for the required compression.

Summer compression socks should be transparent, thin and invisible to others.

However, manufacturers faced a problem here - compression hosiery must be tight to provide the necessary compression. It is due to the required tissue density that a long-term compression effect is ensured.

Soon the manufacturers found a compromise - they began to produce light summer compression socks. But their compression class can only be the first.

Considering that many patients who need to regularly wear anti-varicose golfs generally refuse them in the summer, even when everyone has exacerbations, then 1st class quality compression is undeniably preferable to nothing at all.

Some firms produce open toe compression socks - this also increases leg ventilation.

Can I sleep in compression socks?

With varicose veins of the I-II degree, there will be no harm in this. That is, if you were forced to go to bed in anti-varicose golfs, because there was no opportunity to take them off, nothing bad will happen. At the same time, there will be no benefit in this. The leg vein valves are stressed when the legs are upright. In the horizontal position of the legs, with varicose veins of the I-II degree, there is no load on the veins.

The use of golf during sleep may be necessary for varicose veins of the III-IV degree, when large vascular nodes and complications of the disease are formed: thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, trophic ulcers.

If there is a need for surgical removal of pathological veins, the wearing of compression hosiery is prescribed around the clock before the operation. Of course, in such cases, sleeping in anti-varicose golfs is not only possible, but also necessary.

Can I wear compression knee socks if my legs are already swollen?

The answer to this question is often of interest to people who are shown to use anti-varicose knitwear, but for one reason or another they do not use it regularly.

The main difference is the height of the products: the golf ends under the knee, and the stocking is much higher.

Some stockings can go up to the crotch, or secured with a special belt at the waist.

Stockings are available for men and women. Women's stockings are usually more transparent and are decorated with various patterns to make them look attractive. The design of the men's compression golf is as close as possible to the usual men's jersey. This allows you to make them invisible to others.

Men's stockings are sometimes sold not in pairs, but one at a time - for the right or left leg, fixed at the waist.

Also, if necessary, tights can be made from two men's stockings.

From this it follows that when choosing between stockings and golfs, it is necessary to take into account in which part of the leg the pathological areas are located.

If the symptoms of varicose veins are localized below the knee, then there is no need for stockings - socks of a certain degree of compression will suit you. They will have an anti-varicose effect throughout the leg due to the restoration of the muscle-vascular pump.

If the symptoms of varicose veins are noted above the knee, then it is undoubtedly better to buy stockings. This will increase the compression effect. Due to the restoration of normal blood flow, the pressure on the venous wall will be significantly reduced, and the compression hosiery will support them from the outside.

What to do if some inflamed veins are located above the upper
the edge of golf?

I bought anti-varicose knee-highs, but it turned out that the varicose wreath is 25-30 mm higher than the top edge of the golf course. So knee-highs won't do any good?
Wearing anti-varicose golfs is still necessary in your case. Be sure to wear them until you get the product that you need. The fact is that in addition to the direct compression effect on the pathological area, any medical product made of compression hosiery helps to restore normal blood flow in the legs as a whole. Thus, the support of the veins still occurs, even if not as effective as when compressing directly on the affected area.

What compression knee-highs to buy? Popular brands

Venoteks compression knee-highs

The Venoteks Therapy brand of medical compression hosiery is the result of more than 20 years of work by the employees of Elastic Therapy Inc. The company has conducted hundreds of clinical trials, constantly improving technologies for the development and production of the most effective and elegant models of medical anti-varicose golf courses.

Venotex compression knee-highs are characterized by unique therapeutic properties and quality:

• The declared duration of the therapeutic effect of Venotex golf courses is 6 months.
• A rich assortment of golf courses allows you to solve a variety of medical problems.
• A wide range of models meets the requirements of most buyers.
• The products have received all the necessary international and Russian quality certificates.
• Venotex products are inexpensive. In pharmacies and medical stores, the price of golf ranges from 600 to 1500 rubles.

Venotex products, incl. compression knee-highs, was registered by the federal service "Roszdravnadzor", received the International Certificate ISO 9001-2008 and the certificate of compliance with the state standard of the Russian Federation. In addition, Venotex knee-highs, like all products of this brand, are approved by the Association of Phlebologists of Russia.

Clinical trials of Venotex compression products carried out in clinics around the world, incl. in Russia, have demonstrated the high therapeutic efficacy of this brand of anti varicose golf.

After analyzing customer reviews, we can conclude that the durability of Venotex golf courses is average. This is especially true when using compression classes 2 and higher.

Compression knee-highs Copper (Medi)

Medi is one of the largest developers and manufacturers of anti-varicose knitwear and prosthetic and orthopedic products in the world market. The main priority of the company from the day of its creation is the high quality of products, the use of the latest technologies and meeting all the needs of product buyers.

The quality, effectiveness and safety of anti-varicose products, including compression golf, are recognized by European and international standardization services.

Medi compression knee-highs are genuine German quality. There is a great range of products. The price for various models of Medi golf ranges from 1400 to 2600 rubles. Customer reviews are positive. When buying golfs of the second compression class and above, you must also purchase a device for putting them on. Without such a device, it will be very difficult to put on knee-highs.

Other brands of compression socks

What compression knee-highs are better to buy when the eyes run up from many manufacturers, and the abundance beautiful products different designs?

It really isn't easy. And it can be very frustrating when we pay a hefty sum for something that isn't really worth it.

Below are product descriptions for various brands based on customer feedback analysis:

• Products labeled in denominations
  Today, one can often see knee-highs with anti-varicose effect on the shelves at a price of 150-309 rubles. We do not include the brands on purpose, since in this case it is not a matter of the manufacturer. Such knee-highs find their buyers because they are inexpensive, and at the same time look beautiful. Marked in denominations. Such knee-highs are not medical products, since they are not made of medical compression hosiery.
  Be careful! Knee-highs marked in den (“den”), regardless of the manufacturer, do not have medicinal properties.
• Relaxsan (Italy)
  A very popular brand in Russia. And primarily due to the low cost. The average price is 600-1200 rubles. There is a wide selection of golf courses in various designs and compression classes. But in practice they are short-lived and not entirely comfortable. They retain their medicinal properties for an average of a month.
• ORTO (Spain)
  This is already a high-quality anti-varicose compression hosiery. It is located in the middle price category. Golfs will cost from 400 to 700 rubles. With daily use, they retain their medicinal properties for 3-4 months. But on the foot and toes they will be thinner much earlier. Wear resistance is low.
• Sigvaris (Switzerland)
  These products are elite both in price and quality. Customer reviews are the best. One drawback is the high cost. Knee-highs of various models cost from 2,500 to 3,500 rubles. Such a price is not affordable for every Russian woman.
• Intex (Russia)
  High quality products. Quite a few people who previously used socks of foreign brands have now switched to Intex, and they do not regret it. Since this company is Russian, its products are much cheaper than imported ones. The price of various models is from 900 to 1400 rubles.

Summing up the above, we can only add that the choice of anti-varicose golf should be approached purely individually. The best choice should take into account this or that life situation.

Compression knee socks - reviews

Tatiana, 29 years old, Astrakhan
Varicose veins began to bother me even during pregnancy, when my only spider veins quickly grew in size, and severe pains appeared. After giving birth, there were even more stars.
After giving birth, I decided to try compression knee socks. I decided to buy knee-highs of the Venoteks brand, because they are not very dense - which means it will not be too hot in them, and I liked the design. And they cost only 800 rubles, which is somewhat cheaper than other brands. The instructions are detailed and easy to understand - how to put on, how to wash and dry. It also says that they must serve for at least 6 months. I diligently followed all the points of the instructions, but barely a month passed, when rubbing appeared on the heels, arrows appeared. There is no doubt - if the integrity of the golfs is broken, then they are no longer of any use, and I no longer wanted to wear them in this form. As a result, after just a month, I threw away the socks. I think it was worth taking a more expensive option.

Olga, 38 years old, Saratov
My work keeps me on my feet all the time. At a certain moment, she began to notice the appearance of vascular patterns on the legs. I decided to try wearing compression knee socks.
Since then I have experienced many different brands. Most of all I liked the socks of the NK LPP FARM company (Russia). And first of all, the price. Popular brands inflate prices for anti-varicose knitwear. And the Russian ones compensate for the affordable price with design flaws. But if wears knee-highs under trousers, jeans, etc., design flaws don't matter.
I have been using their golf for the 4th year already. Have gone through more than one wash, and still look great. And the seams are of high quality, and the fabric is excellent, and the effect is obvious.
The only complaint to the manufacturer is that you cannot always find your size.

Before use, you must consult a specialist.

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

The essence of the therapeutic effect

Compression therapy for vein diseases has been used at all times. A description of the methods of treating trophic ulcers on the legs with bandages and pressure bandages is in the works of the founders of medical science. The principle of the effect of compression underwear is that it creates pressure of different strengths on different parts of the lower limb. In this case, the maximum compression (100%) falls on the lower leg (above the ankle). This is due to the fact that more effort 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 in the underwear is applied to the upper part of the lower leg, and only 40% to the thigh. The linen compresses the veins, pushing out stagnant blood, forcing it to move.

The patient's leg without the use of compression hosiery (left) and with its use (right)

Thanks to this load distribution, blood flow to the heart is normalized. The inherent compression resembles the load created by the work of the muscles during movement ... People who use compression garments have less tiredness and less swelling by the end of the working day. Compression knitwear for varicose veins is knee-highs and sleeves, tights and tights, stockings and bandages. It has practically no contraindications. And you can wear it all the time instead of regular underwear.

The effect of wearing medicated underwear

1. The underwear puts constant pressure on the surface of the leg.
2. Protects veins from expansion.
3. Wearing compression hosiery (pantyhose, stockings or golf) normalizes blood flow in the lower extremities, helping to improve tissue supply nutrients and oxygen.
4. The use of compression garments is a warning.

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 the usual one. There are no seams in it. 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 the linen using the latest computer technology. Subject to the rules of care, the healing properties are preserved for 6 months.

Types of underwear for compression

Compression underwear can be prophylactic (the compression it creates is the smallest), medical (for wearing during an exacerbation of vein disease) and hospital (for use in hospitals after surgery).

It is recommended to wear preventive underwear at the first appearance on the legs, in case of pain and swelling in the legs at the end of the working day. Such stockings exert a pressure of no more than 18 mm Hg 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 the accumulation of fluid in the ankle area, thereby eliminating the cause of edema. In order to prevent compression garments can be worn and healthy people at risk on the occurrence of diseases of the venous vessels of the lower extremities. It is useful for teachers and sellers, hairdressers and drivers, as well as representatives of other professions whose work is associated with a long stay in one static position(standing or sitting). It can be purchased commercially at pharmacies. No recipe is required for this. Since the compression garment is presented different kinds, consider each of them.

Tights and stockings

Compression tights - the most popular view medical linen. In addition, there are special models for pregnant women. Tights, correctly sized, should fit tightly around the legs and end strictly at the waist. If the linen is not enough or, conversely, too large, the distribution of compression is disturbed and the healing effect is lost. According to the majority of patients, tights are the most convenient type of compression hosiery, which is easy to take off, but when putting on, you need to make some effort, since they must be evenly distributed over the leg. But then they will reliably fix on the naga and will not slip while moving, which contributes to the accurate distribution of the compression inherent in them and the achievement of the desired results. Wearing a compression garment can be combined with cosmetics for feet and medicinal preparations in the form of ointments and creams. But it is better if they are applied before bedtime, after the medicated linen is removed. If the skin requires constant hydration, it is recommended to use light-textured, fast-absorbing creams. This will protect the linen from breaking the integrity of the fibers and losing its healing properties.

Knee socks

Stockings and tights are more suitable for treating sore veins in women. But in the world and many men suffer from varicose veins. How to be it? Constantly bandaging your legs with elastic bandages? No. Doctors have a solution to the problem for men as well. They can use compression socks, the choice of which is wide enough today. Created special knee-highs for travelers and people leading active image life, prophylactic and permanent wear for medicinal purposes. Although why shouldn't men wear tights under their trousers? All the same, you can't see it, but what a luxury to your feet! The wide assortment includes compression socks of various brands, both for men and for women. It is believed that all people can wear them, as they have no side effects. However, there are several contraindications. Knee-highs cannot be worn if a person has blood vessel diseases such as aortoarteritis, as well as in the presence of open wounds or with purulent inflammation, necrosis or eczema.

Elastic bandage

An elastic bandage is still used as an additional remedy for varicose veins. Compared to compression hosiery, it is less effective. In addition, it is inconvenient and long to apply it to sore areas. In this case, the degree of compression is created manually, by tightening the bandages, and is controlled intuitively. But the biggest drawback is that the bandages are constantly slipping. Nevertheless, many people are forced to use them, since they are the cheapest type of knitwear used to prevent venous vascular diseases. Therefore, you should know how to properly bandage your legs with varicose veins.

Rules for applying an elastic bandage

It should be remembered that an elastic bandage should be applied in the morning, immediately after waking up, until fluid begins to accumulate in the ankle area, leading to swelling. The procedure is performed in the "lying" position, the leg is lifted up, at an angle of 90 °. Doing it yourself is inconvenient. And it is quite difficult to achieve the desired tension. Therefore, it is better to ask someone from the household to help complete this procedure.

1. Bandaging the legs begins from the narrowest area (ankles), gradually moving to a wider area (thigh).
2. When bandaging the ankle, you should make a kind of "lock", applying turns around the heel. This will prevent the bandage from slipping off during movement.
3. When applying turns, the bandage should be pulled evenly, making sure that no folds form.
4. A roll of bandage is unwound little by little, closer to the leg, trying not to stretch it. This will avoid excessive compression of the tissue.
5. During the application of the bandage, it is necessary to ensure that its turns are applied with a slight overlap, without the formation of gaps.
6. The bandage should be tighter around the ankle. As you move upward, each turn overlaps looser.
7. The bandage begins at least 20 cm from the affected area. It should also end in an area with healthy vessels, at least 15 cm long.

The correctness of the dressing can be verified by looking at the appearance of the fingers. If done correctly, they look blue at first. But literally in a couple of minutes, their normal color returns. In the area of ​​the knee and elbow joints the application of the bandage should not be too tight, so as not to disrupt blood circulation in this area. Signs of improper bandaging (too tight) are finger numbness and pain. At the same time, blood pulsation is felt under the bandage. In this case, you need to lie down, release the 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 required therapeutic effect in the treatment of varicose veins and a number of other vein diseases, drug therapy alone is not enough. Medical knitwear plays an important role in eliminating edema, relieving pain and other symptoms. Thanks to wearing it, patients have the following beneficial effects:

• The diameter of the veins decreases, which normalizes the operation of the valve mechanism. The viscosity in the blood decreases, the rate 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 by squeezing 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 grades, compression is distributed from 100% at the ankle to 40% at the thigh

Unlike prophylactic compression garments, medicated ones cannot be bought on the market. It is sold with a doctor's prescription. And it is recommended to purchase it in specialized salons that sell orthopedic products. According to the degree of pressure generated, medical medical jersey has the following compression classes:

• Class 1. The generated compression does not exceed 23 mm Hg. 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, with the appearance of pain in the legs at the end of the working day.
• Class 2. The distributed pressure is not more than 33 mm Hg. (4.25x10³ Pa). It is used in the treatment of moderate varicose veins.
• Class 3. Compression is not higher than 45 mm Hg. (6.1x10³ Pa). Tights (and other products) are used in case of a severe course, characterized by a violation of trophism.
• Class 4. Compression exceeds 50 mm Hg (6.5x10³ Pa). It is used to eliminate and eliminate edema caused by this disease.

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

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

How to choose medical underwear?

The choice of medical jersey is wide enough. Therefore, many ask the question: what type of knitwear for varicose veins is better? To answer it, let's start with the fact that medical compression hosiery of any kind is designed to stop the development of varicose veins, eliminate blood stasis in the extremities and remove in the ankle area. And tights, stockings and knee-highs perfectly cope with this task. The difference between them is only in their length: the maximum golf length is up to the knee, stockings end at the top of the thigh, and tights end at the waist. The choice of a product on this basis is carried out depending on the localization of the main signs of the disease. If the pattern of dilated veins is limited to the lower leg, then for anti-varicose effects it is enough to purchase knee-highs. 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 medical stockings and tights can be either transparent or with patterns applied to them. Medical underwear for men is made like regular jersey to remain invisible.
In pharmacies and specialized salons, medical compression hosiery from various manufacturers is offered. Compression in underwear of any brand is calculated with maximum accuracy. Therefore, stockings and tights of all companies have the same therapeutic effect. They differ mainly in design, wear duration, and cost.

Relaxsan tights and stockings

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

Lingerie from 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, has a fairly high wear resistance. For an amount of 800 to 1300 rubles, you can buy tights, stockings or knee-highs made of excellent fabric, with high-quality seams, and at the same time get the necessary therapeutic effect.

Compression underwear ORTO

Tights, stockings and knee-highs from the Spanish company ORTO are medium-priced goods. The minimum amount that will have to be paid for the simplest therapeutic couple varies from 400 to 700 rubles. All products are different good quality... Compression lasts up to 4 months, but they wear out quickly on the toes and feet.

Medical jersey Venotex

VenoteksTherapy compression underwear (USA) is 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-highs 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 more for the model of the 3rd compression class.

Medi and Bauerfeind anti-varicose jersey

For those who prefer a higher quality knitwear, it is better to purchase goods from one of the German companies Medi or Bauerfeind. The prices for the products of these companies are much higher (from 1300 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-highs and tights are of great design. The lineup 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.

Sigvaris medical tights, stockings and knee-highs

Elite medical underwear from the Swiss company Sigvaris is the most expensive of all the presented types. It features minimal wear, high quality workmanship and great design. These are the main properties for which Russian customers must pay from their wallet an amount of 2500 to 4500 rubles and more per pair. Since the compression, which is embedded in the underwear, and the therapeutic effect of wearing it, do not differ from the pressure created by knitwear from other manufacturers.

When choosing a compression garment, many make the mistake of not knowing how it is labeled. Especially when buying it from hands, in the markets, etc., trying to save money on the purchase. On the packaging with any type of therapeutic knitwear, the class of the created compression is indicated, indicating the pressure in mm Hg. Art. (or Pa). On ordinary tights, stockings or knee-highs, the density of the fabric in den is shown. Therefore, you should refuse to buy if tights in the n-th number of den are offered as compression underwear. Hoping for the healing effect of wearing them, you can worsen the condition of the veins.

How to choose the size of the compression garment?

After the company and model of the product have been selected, a recipe has been received indicating the compression class, it is necessary to determine the size of the tights (stockings and golf). For this, the following leg measurements are made at home; For golf:

1. Lower leg circumference above the ankle (cm);
2. Calf circumference in the upper (wide) part, under the knee joint (cm).
3. Length from foot to knee.

For stockings:

• For the first two golf measurements, add the hip girth at 25 cm from the knee joint (standard figure). For man tall measurement is performed 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 measurement of the thigh circumference (or to the groin) is taken.

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 required size, the data obtained are compared with those given in special size tables, which may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer... When buying compression underwear in an orthopedic salon, it is enough to show your measurements to a consultant, and he will select a 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 start with buying a cheaper model, get used to the sensations that arise when wearing compression underwear. And only after that you can buy expensive anti-varicose tights or stockings for constant wear.

Compression garment size chart with numbers

Compression underwear for pregnant women

It is recommended to wear compression garments for ALL pregnant women.... In the first trimester, even if there are no obvious signs of varicose veins, it is recommended to use preventive hosiery. At later stages, you should follow the recommendations of the treating specialist doctors. Compression hosiery for pregnant women has significant differences from other types of medical underwear. Firstly, an elastic bandage is made in the upper part of the tights, the main function of which is to support the abdomen without squeezing it. And secondly, fabrics with increased air permeability 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 in special tights for pregnant women, not every expectant mother feels comfortable. And stockings can be chosen taking into account the physiological characteristics and your own preferences. They are offered in the following types:

1. Classic model;
2. Silicone elastic;
3. On a special corset belt with Velcro;
4. Open toe.

Video: how to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy?

When else is it worth wearing compression hosiery?

In the creation of targeted pressure on the surface of the legs, in order to normalize blood flow, people need not only for diseases of venous vessels, such as varicose veins. It can be used for weight loss to remove excess fluid, smooth out fat deposits in the form of folds. At the same time, thanks to the created compression, muscles and skin are massaged and toned. It is recommended to wear special compression garments in the first month of the postpartum period. It helps to prevent many serious complications such as prolapse of the vaginal walls, prolapse of the uterus, etc. In addition, it supports the abdominal muscles that were weakened during pregnancy. Compression underwear for sports allows 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 perform more strength exercises.

How to wear compression garments?

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

• Any type of compression underwear (tights, stockings, knee-highs) is put on immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed.
• This is done carefully, without excessive stretching or twisting.
• First, collect the upper part into an accordion.
• Putting your palms inside the pantyhose (stocking), carefully put on the foot, taking into account the location of the heel.
• Gradually straightening, pull on the lower leg.
• On the hips, tights are also worn lying down, raising the torso when approaching the waist.

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

1. For people with large dimensions, the Big series device is intended;
2. For people with reduced mobility - Longo series;
3. Collapsible for travel - Travel Butler;
4. Hospitalbutler - with a sliding mechanism.

This company also offers a device to help you take off medicated linen - 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 that your nails do not damage the elastic fibers. All toenails should also be trimmed short and sanded. The surface of corns and dry calluses should be smoothed.

Video: how to put on a compression stocking correctly?

When a person is prescribed compression therapy for the first time, questions may arise related to the use of medical hosiery. For example, the patient bought knee-highs, and the vein with varicose enlargement was just above the elastic... Doubt arises. Should I wear a purchased item? - In this case, an indirect effect will be exerted on the affected vessel, due to the normalization of blood flow in the lower part of the leg, and therefore the purchased product can be used. But it is highly recommended that you try to get a product of a suitable 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 edema, the size of the leg is greatly increased. The question often arises: Why take off stockings (knee-highs) 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 the 1st and 2nd degree of venous insufficiency), the linen does not work, that is, no compression is created. Therefore, leaving it on the body is useless. However, if a person accidentally fell asleep in underwear, there is no great harm. The most common question is whether what kind of underwear to wear on hot summer days. - Compression should continue in the summer. Moreover, higher temperatures are provocateurs of additional vasodilation. On particularly hot days, you can use lighter underwear, class 1 or maintenance. Reducing compression in this case is preferable to no compression at all.

Compression hosiery care

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

• Compression garments are recommended to be washed daily by hand without twisting or wringing.
• The water should be moderately warm (no higher than 40 °).
• Use liquid soap or shampoo for washing, as well as any other product for the care of delicate fabrics.
• The use of washing powders and bleaches, dry cleaning, hot drying and hanging in the sun is prohibited.
• The silicone elastic on the stockings should be protected from any significant contact with water. Otherwise, she will lose her fixing qualities. Grease from the silicone strip is removed with a cotton pad soaked in any alcohol-containing liquid.

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

Video: phlebologist about compression underwear