Compression underwear how to choose the right one. What if some inflamed veins are above the top of the knee socks? Therapeutic effect and classification of knitwear

14.10.2019

Vascular diseases are becoming more and more every year. Varicose veins (varicose veins) and chronic venous insufficiency are the most common ailments. For the prevention and treatment of diseases, doctors often advise wearing anti-thrombotic compression stockings or tights. In addition, such medical underwear is used in various surgical interventions. Medical jersey is suitable for both men and women, differs in size.

What is compression stockings

Compression stockings are often used to maintain proper pressure in the lower extremities. This special type of underwear is used in medicine for the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with vasodilation, thrombosis (the disease is accompanied by the formation of dense blood clots that interfere with the free circulation of blood), varicose veins. Knee socks, stockings, bandages, tights with a compression effect prevent blood stasis, blood clots, and edema due to harmonious pressure on different parts of the legs. Compression underwear is divided into:

Anti-varicose. Therapeutic jersey, which is used to treat varicose veins. It helps to get rid of the signs of the disease even in the later stages, eliminates such an unpleasant manifestation of the disease as varicose veins. It is necessary to use anti-varicose knitwear only on the recommendation of a phlebologist.
Preventive (consumer). To prevent the first signs of illness, such underwear is often used. It can be worn without consulting a doctor, with heavy loads on the legs or a sedentary lifestyle.
Antiembolic (or hospital). It is prescribed by a doctor when the patient is in intensive care, during childbirth and during surgery. To prevent air embolism (blocking the lumen of a blood vessel), the products are worn by patients during a period of prolonged immobility (during a stroke, severe fracture, heart attack). Knitwear must be worn for several days after surgery to avoid the formation of blood clots, blood stasis, hypotension (lowering blood pressure).
Decongestant. This jersey, as well as medical, is prescribed by a specialist, but only for patients with impaired lymphatic outflow.

Today there is a huge range of medical compression stockings. To make the right choice, you need to contact a phlebologist who can assess the condition of the veins and give recommendations on the prevention and treatment of diseases using compression stockings. Such underwear is also indicated for people who have one or more risk factors:

taking hormonal drugs;
hereditary predisposition to varicose veins;
standing or sedentary work (hairdressers, salesmen, surgeons, cooks, etc.);
high blood clotting or viscosity;
evening fatigue, swelling of the legs;
chronic constipation;
long trips;
multiple pregnancies;
walking in high heels;
sedentary lifestyle;
overweight;
smoking;
alcohol consumption.

What are anti-embolic stockings for?

The main task of anti-embolic knitwear is to protect blood vessels and veins from the formation of blood clots in them. Compression products are used to optimally distribute pressure on the vessels. In addition, such underwear accelerates the outflow of blood, reduces venous pressure, so fatigue in the legs quickly disappears, and the risk of thrombosis decreases.

Be sure to use anti-embolic (anti-thrombotic) elastic stockings for operations associated with interference with the work of internal organs, the musculoskeletal system, with caesarean section and childbirth. The distribution of pressure when wearing compression underwear is as follows: 100% falls on the ankles, 50% on the knee, 70% on the middle of the lower leg, 40% on the middle of the thigh.

How to choose

A phlebologist can provide a patient with assistance in choosing surgical tights. There are certain rules, following which you can choose the right medical compression underwear for the operation:

pressure in compression stockings should be distributed in increasing order - from the maximum at the ankles to the minimum at the hips;
you need to pay attention to the color of the linen - white shades help the doctor control the condition of the veins during surgery;
before buying a product, it is necessary to take individual measurements (measure the girths of the calves, ankles, knees, the length of the legs from the heel to the inguinal region);
it is necessary to pay attention to hypoallergenic materials;
compression underwear cannot be cheap, this is due to the peculiarities of production;
for safety, the selected tights must comply with the environmental, medical quality standard RAL-GZ 387;
the compression class must be determined by a specialist;
you should pay attention to the presence of additional parts (zippers, belts, rubber bands), as they affect the usability of the product.

Manufacturer

The country of origin of medical compression products speaks volumes. High-quality knitwear, which has proven itself on the positive side, is considered to be products from Switzerland and Germany. It is necessary to buy medical elastic tights in specialized stores or in outlets that are official dealers of recognized manufacturers.

Any company that strives to produce good compression stockings must first pass a strict certification in Germany, Switzerland. Therefore, if elastic compression stockings have such a certificate, this indicates a high quality product. Russian doctors often recommend Sigvaris and Medi products for purchase. In addition, well-known manufacturers are:

Venosan;
Venoteks;
Ergoforma;
Ecoten;
BSN-Jobst;
Relaxsan;
OFA Bamberg;
Ecoten;
Thuasne;
Intertextile;
Bauerfeind;
intex;
Luomma Idealist;
Ortho;
Scudotex.

Compression class

Medical knitwear has its own classification, which depends on the disease, usage patterns, compression class, i.e. the degree of pressure (in mm Hg) that elastic stockings exert on the legs. Based on this, all knitted compression products have their own properties and are divided into three types:

Preventive (compression class 0). The pressure is 15–18 mm Hg. Art. It is used without the appointment of a specialist to prevent the development of venous insufficiency. If spider veins and veins are prominent, class zero knitwear will not solve the problem.
Therapeutic, which is divided into:
1. First class (18–21 mmHg). Knitwear must be worn at the initial stage of varicose expansion - to prevent its further development and improve blood circulation. Indications for use are: leg cramps, a clear pattern of saphenous veins, vascular networks, hormonal changes, edema.
2. Second class (23–32 mm Hg). Pantyhose and stockings of this type are used for the prevention and treatment of chronic moderate venous insufficiency. They are indicated for use after surgery, at stages 2 and 3 of varicose veins, with persistent swelling of the legs, acute thrombophlebitis (thrombosis with inflammation of the vein wall and the formation of a blood clot).
3. Third class (34–46 mmHg). They are used in the treatment of severe forms of venous diseases. Indications for the use of such knitwear are strong persistent edema, lympho-venous and vascular congenital insufficiency, thrombosis, varicose veins, recovery after surgery.
4. Fourth grade (more than 49 mm Hg). It is used extremely rarely, it is indicated for the most severe forms of varicose veins, when the valves and walls of the vessels cannot cope with the task of transferring blood from the legs to the heart.
Anti-embolic hospital stockings (15–18 mmHg) help to activate blood circulation in the legs, increasing blood flow in deep veins, and reduce the risk of thrombosis. It can only be used as directed by a doctor. Indications for use: surgery, childbirth, caesarean section, epidural anesthesia, prolonged bed rest.

Dimensions

Elastic medical underwear is always selected individually after consultation with a specialist. The correct choice of the degree of compression, the size of the product will ensure high efficiency from its use and comfortable wearing. To choose the right tights or stockings, you need to make a series of measurements using a centimeter tape. Four main parameters should be defined:

Calf circumference (calf circumference under the knee joint).
Leg length. It is determined from the foot to the circumference of the thigh, not reaching 5 centimeters to the gluteal muscle.
Ankle circumference. The exact volume of the lower leg above the ankle, i.e., the narrowest part of the leg, is important.
Hip circumference. It is necessary to determine the girth of the thigh at a distance of 25 cm above the knee joint or 5 cm below the gluteal muscle.

You can determine the size of tights on your own, or by contacting a doctor or a consultant in an orthopedic salon for help. Next, you need to record all the measurements, and using a special table to choose the right product:

Measurement	Calf circumference	Leg length	Ankle circumference	Thigh circumference

What compression stockings are needed for gynecological surgery

Any surgical intervention involves the use of anesthetics, which affects blood clotting. This can lead to thrombosis. The use of compression underwear helps to reduce the risk of postoperative complications. For example, to maintain blood vessels during surgery, stockings are often put on before diagnostic curettage, removal of appendages, uterus, laparoscopy (a modern surgical method with access to operated organs through a small incision up to 1.5 cm).

Compression stockings should be worn before any gynecological surgery. They are necessary for all women, regardless of whether there were previously problems with the veins or not. As a rule, compression stockings of the first class (18-21 mmHg) or hospital stockings of the second class will be suitable for gynecological operations . It is impossible to choose underwear on your own, only on the recommendation of a specialist.

How to put on

Many experts recommend wearing compression stockings, tights with rubber gloves, so as not to damage the product. Nails must be neatly processed (filed, trimmed). Immediately before putting on, you should perform preparatory measures that will facilitate the procedure:

skin and stockings must be dry;
legs before putting on for some time should be in an elevated position;
if there are calluses or bumps on the feet, it is necessary to soften them first - this is necessary to prevent the appearance of puffs on the product.

It is better to put on stockings in the morning immediately after sleep, until the legs are swollen, and take them off in the evening. Knitwear must be distributed evenly, because this causes a dosed pressure. There are basic rules for putting on compression underwear:

First, each stocking must be turned inside out.
Put the toe on your fingers.
Gradually straightening the trail part, put on the heel and then distribute the leg to the side along the entire length of the leg.
If wrinkles appear in the process, they must be smoothed out.
Then you should carefully fix the product with a silicone insert or belt.

How much to wear

It is impossible to decide on your own how long to wear stockings after surgery and whether to wear them in the future, so it is better to trust a specialist. Medical underwear is advised to be worn for at least 14 days after surgery, while the first 3 days it cannot be removed at all. Any attempt to reduce the period of wearing can provoke complications that worsen the patient's health.

When you can remove the compression underwear, doctors decide based on how much time has passed since the operation. The minimum period of wearing knitwear after surgery is one week, the maximum is 30 days. With further treatment, it is allowed to pause in the use of stockings - starting with rest at night and gradually increasing the time to several days of break.

Price of medical stockings

You can buy elastic knitwear of zero compression class at any pharmacy. Therapeutic medical stockings for surgery are sold in orthopedic salons or in specialized stores. The price of such products, as a rule, is several thousand rubles. Approximate prices for compression hosiery for surgery in Moscow are presented in the table:

Manufacturer	Compression class	Short description	Price in rubles
Switzerland	Preventive, grades 1–4	Products are made from natural and synthetic soft yarns with a double braid, thanks to which the linen has maximum elasticity, durability, and strength.
Germany	Hospital, prophylactic, grades 1–4	Products are soft, durable at the same time due to elastane and polyamide in the composition. They have a reinforced toe.
		The pressure on the vessels is distributed evenly. Products have a wide range of colors, which allows them to be used in everyday life.
	Hospital, prophylactic, grades 1–3	Linen has a mesh structure, made of synthetic, natural fabrics. Stockings for hygienic purposes are treated with an antibacterial composition.
	Preventive, grades 1–3	Thin, soft jersey with flattened seams. Repeats the anatomical shape of the lower leg, foot.

Video

Compression stockings is widely used to maintain the correct, from the point of view of physiology, pressure in the lower extremities of a person. Such stockings are used in the scheme of complex treatment, as well as for the prevention of this disease. Special underwear for veins in medicine is commonly called medical knitwear. It is also called compression or anti-varicose underwear, medical knitwear.

Pantyhose, socks, as well as compression stockings for varicose veins are recommended to be worn by phlebologists. Such underwear must be worn with, lymphedema and other problems with the blood vessels of the extremities.

What kind of compression underwear is, which is better - compression tights or stockings, the doctor will tell and recommend during the appointment.

The therapeutic effect when using such underwear is manifested due to the fact that stockings, leggings or tights support blood vessels, compress an enlarged vein. This, in turn, evenly redistributes blood flow from dilated to healthy vessels.

Such underwear helps to activate blood circulation, improve tissue nutrition.

If you choose the right compression stockings, it will help reduce the risk of developing blood clots .

Another important argument in favor of the use of such underwear is that there are almost no contraindications to the use of medical knitwear. It does not cause side effects, but at the same time it is a good method of preventing the progression of varicose veins and helps to maintain the veins in a physiological state.

How does compression underwear work for varicose veins?

Previously, when medical knitwear was not produced, varicose veins were treated elastic bandages . However, their use has several significant drawbacks.

First of all, elastic bandages have to be applied for a long time, and in order to get the desired effect, this must be done correctly.
An important disadvantage is the inability to wear an elastic bandage all the time. Unaesthetic appearance does not allow wearing it daily, while, for example, compression underwear Medi and knitwear from other modern manufacturers looks very beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.
Despite the fact that bandages have a low price, it will not be possible to save money when wearing them. After all, such a bandage very quickly becomes unusable. Therefore, it is better to learn how to choose high-quality knitwear and buy compression underwear for varicose veins.

What is compression underwear for and what is its effect? By squeezing dilated veins, such knitwear provides acceleration blood flow through deep veins. As a result, it is eliminated venous congestion , which is a prerequisite for the development of varicose veins. Those who are interested in which compression underwear for varicose veins is better should take into account that it is worth buying high-quality products. After all, branded high-quality knitwear provides a graduated, that is, a gradual decrease in pressure from the hand to the shoulder or from the lower leg to the thigh.

For example, a good online store for compression underwear for varicose veins offers stockings that provide maximum (100%) pressure at the bottom of the lower leg and partial (40%) in the thighs. It is this distribution that is the most correct from a physiological point of view, and therefore provides the greatest therapeutic effect. With this mode of pressure distribution, the outflow of blood is normalized due to the following effects:

The work of the valve apparatus improves and returns to normal.
The enlarged lumen of the peripheral veins of the thighs and lower leg, especially the subcutaneous ones, is reduced.
Increases the effect of the muscle pump. When muscles contract during exercise, blood is pushed up.

Effective compression underwear for pregnant women. But when choosing such knitwear, you need to be guided by the individual recommendations of the doctor.

How to choose compression stockings?

Before choosing compression stockings for varicose veins, you need to clearly understand that such underwear cannot eliminate serious causes of venous insufficiency. Therefore, it is used before radical treatment. Medical knitwear mimics the situation, as if veins that have expanded, removed or sealed.

In addition, it is important to understand that non-surgical treatment of leg diseases should always be comprehensive. Only in this case the effect will be maximum. It is very important not only to wear compression underwear, but also to apply ointments and creams prescribed by a doctor, to practice folk remedies for the prevention and treatment of varicose veins, and also to lead a healthy lifestyle.

In order for the effect to be most noticeable, it is important to choose the right medical underwear. In this case, it is necessary to take into account not only the reviews that can be read on the network, and the prices of underwear, but also its quality, compression classes.

Compression knitwear is usually divided into three types:

hospital - that is, one that is used exclusively in a hospital;
medicinal ;
prophylactic .

But, regardless of whether knitwear is needed for treatment or prevention, it should be bought exclusively in specialized stores or at retail outlets that are official dealers of medically recognized manufacturers of such underwear. It is important that in such stores, consumers are sure to be helped to choose the right size of a jersey, since the effectiveness of the treatment depends on this. To find the perfect underwear, the seller first measures the foot in four places. Next, a special size table is used, according to which stockings or tights are selected.

As for different manufacturers, reviews of their products can often be found on the net. Many women write about how high quality the Sigvaris knitwear is, which costs between 4000-5000 rubles. But there are many positive reviews about the Medi knitwear, the price of which is lower - about 3,000 rubles. You can learn more about this underwear and choose the compression hosiery "Medi" on the official website of the company. The compression underwear of the Venoteks and Ortho companies is also of high quality, the prices for which are slightly lower - from 2000 rubles.

You can purchase underwear in four degrees of compression:

First class compression (18-21 mm Hg) - preventive knitwear, the wearing of which is indicated in the following cases:
- during pregnancy ;
- with a tendency to varicose veins ;
- in the presence of initial symptoms of varicose veins: if the veins are visible under the skin, after prolonged standing or sitting, the legs hurt, pronounced spider veins can be distinguished on the legs, and edema appears in the evening;
- if a person leads a lifestyle in which he is forced to sit or stand a lot - in the office, driving a car, behind a counter, etc.
second compression class (23-32 mm Hg) - the most popular underwear. Compression stockings of the 2nd compression class are used for the purpose of treatment varicose veins , thrombophlebitis . In the hospital, hospital knitwear of the 2nd compression class is also used.
Third compression class (34-46 mm Hg) - compression stockings of this class are used for patients with trophic disorders and severe venous insufficiency.
Fourth compression class (from 49 mm Hg) - this class is used very rarely - for men and women with lymphatic edema.

Before you buy stockings or tights for varicose veins, you should decide exactly what kind of underwear is better to buy. Those who buy anti-varicose tights for the first time should not immediately choose compression class 2. After all, it may well be that for the vascular system it will be too strong compression.

First, it is better to buy inexpensive underwear - the price of class 1 compression tights from some companies will be quite acceptable. After wearing it and gradually getting used to such underwear, you can later buy more expensive orthopedic tights for varicose veins.

For the purpose of prevention, only linen of the 1st class is used. If a person is already developing varicose veins, then a phlebologist will help you choose tights. You should also ask your doctor about how to choose compression tights for pregnant women so that the expectant mother feels good when wearing such underwear. In this case, it is important to choose the size of anti-varicose tights or stockings so that they do not cause noticeable discomfort.

But no matter how enthusiastic the reviews about this or that underwear are, you need to understand that it will not work to cure varicose veins with it, since wearing underwear does not eliminate the causes of the disease. Compression knitwear helps to stop the development of the disease and prevent the appearance of new veins affected by varicose veins.

In hot summer weather, it is impossible to wear such underwear, therefore, during the summer period, you need to use medicines for varicose veins and use other methods to combat this disease.

In order not to damage the product and get the greatest effect, you need to know how to wear compression stockings correctly - this is indicated in the instructions.

Regardless of the price of such underwear, it is able to hold compression for about 5-7 months.

Before purchasing such underwear, you need to clearly know how to choose the right compression stockings for varicose veins. Special quality standards for compression stockings have been defined. The most important and strict among them is the European RAL-GZ-387 .

Any manufacturer aiming to produce knitwear that conforms to it must first pass a very strict certification in Switzerland or Germany. Therefore, if elastic orthopedic stockings for varicose veins have such a certificate, this indicates its high quality. Knitwear with this certificate provides pressure, which is distributed over the limb (40-70-100%), and is therapeutic. The standard is evidenced by the packaging of products, as well as the presence of a special label.

To choose a good product, you need to focus not only on how much such stockings or stockings cost, but, first of all, on the manufacturer and the proven point of sale of the goods. Indeed, in the domestic market it is very easy to make a mistake and buy fake medical stockings or tights. In addition, in specialized stores, the buyer will be prompted how to determine the size, both for men and women. In proven stores, you need to buy compression stockings for pregnant women.

Since medical underwear is worn daily, it is very important to choose a hypoallergenic model. Therefore, you need to focus not on user reviews, but, above all, on personal feelings. The linen must bear the sign of the European eco-safety standard. Oeko-Tex Standard 10 - this ensures that the product is made from a material that does not cause.

How to put on compression stockings correctly?

When buying treated jerseys, you need to know how to put on and how to wear such underwear correctly.

Most often, people seeking to prevent the progression of varicose veins wear compression stockings of the 2nd compression class. After all, both the efficiency and the price of compression stockings of the 2nd compression class often turn out to be the most acceptable for the patient. However, it often happens that products of the 2nd degree of compression are very uncomfortable for a person to wear. Moreover, most often the 2nd class of compression for men and women turns out to be inconvenient precisely because a person puts on such a product incorrectly. After all, you can’t put it on like tights for a child, gathering it into an accordion and pulling the stocking up to the thigh. Both tights and socks or stockings should be put on slowly, gradually straightening them on the leg.

Such underwear will be difficult to put on for obese people. To facilitate this process, special tools can be purchased at the store. How much these devices cost depends on the manufacturer. Compression stockings should be worn with gloves to avoid damaging the underwear with your nails. In addition, if a person is wearing medical or other gloves, then the underwear slides better.

If underwear of the second compression class is uncomfortable to wear, in some cases you can limit yourself to the first class. Moreover, the price of compression stockings of the 1st compression class for women and men (Ortho, etc.) is lower. However, the price of stockings for varicose veins on the legs depends on other factors.

A person who wears therapeutic knitwear should have smooth feet - without roughness, calluses. You need to cut your toenails short and file them to avoid the appearance of puffs on the underwear.

It is better to put on such underwear in the morning, on rested and, accordingly, not swollen limbs. In this case, both the legs and knitwear should be completely dry.

Those who are interested in whether it is possible to sleep in such stockings need to understand that there is no need for this, since during sleep the load on the limbs is minimal.

If the phlebologist prescribed the patient to wear class 3 products, it will be more difficult to put them on and, accordingly, more time will have to be spent on this. To do this, it is better to use special devices.

If the size chart provided on a particular site seems incomprehensible, it is better to ask a specialist about how to choose the size of compression stockings for surgery or for everyday wear. After all, if the size is chosen incorrectly, it will be extremely inconvenient to put on and wear such underwear.

It is important to properly care for such products and know how to wash and dry them.

Compression garment care

When buying orthopedic underwear for women and men, you need to consider that it is most convenient to have at least two pairs of such knitwear. After all, you need to wash it daily to get rid of dust, specks and dead skin particles, which can very quickly damage the fibers of the linen.

Washing is carried out only by hand, using baby soap. Such clothes cannot be washed in the machine. It is necessary to wash at a temperature not exceeding 40 C. It is forbidden to iron and bleach it. Do not use conditioners or rinse aids. After all, they also destroy the structure of the contracting tissue.

Dry the compression hosiery by spreading it on a horizontal surface. You can not twist and wring it out, you can easily get wet with a towel. It is not allowed to dry knitwear in the sun, the battery in a vertical position.

You need to be very careful with silicone strips, which are important for securing linen. During washing, it is better not to wet them and wipe them with a disinfectant cloth.

What to wear with such products depends on the taste of the woman. But, as a rule, knitwear from modern manufacturers is very beautiful and elegant.

Contraindications for wearing compression garments

Before choosing compression stockings for varicose veins, you need to clearly know if the patient has any contraindications to wearing them. Medical knitwear has several such contraindications.

Wearing medical knitwear is absolutely contraindicated in such diseases:

endoarteritis ;
orthoarteritis ;
thromboangiitis obliterans .

Under these conditions, it decreases vessel lumen , and the systolic is reduced to 80 mm. rt. Art., so it is strictly forbidden to reduce pressure in the lower extremities.

Very carefully you need to wear compression underwear for those who have problems with the skin and high skin sensitivity.

Stockings or tights should not be worn for allergic manifestations and inflammatory processes on the skin, as well as for bedsores, open wounds.

If varicose veins appear as a result of a disease diabetes , such underwear also cannot be used. Compression stockings are not to be used if septic phlebitis , cardiopulmonary insufficiency severe if circulatory problems occur at rest.

You can also meet the opinion that knitwear can provoke atrophy of the muscular layer of the walls of the veins . When a person stops wearing medical underwear, the opposite effect is likely, due to which the venous wall will stretch, and varicose veins will progress even more.

Of course, it is not possible to check the condition of each vein in a person wearing such underwear. However, most phlebologists consider this theory erroneous, citing the following evidence in favor of this:

a person cannot wear medical knitwear around the clock;
if the veins are compressed, then the blood flow in them decreases, but it does not stop;
as a rule, atrophy of the muscle wall develops if a person has a genetic predisposition, and also if a local specific inflammatory process develops during venous stasis, and when using knitwear, these phenomena decrease;
sometimes, after stopping the use of linen, a person initially feels a little worse, since the tone of the venous wall decreases for a while, but we are not talking about atrophy.

Also, after the end of the period of wearing such underwear, it may seem to people with varicose veins that it has become more difficult for them to walk. Therefore, many people prefer not to refuse to wear it.

Thus, compression underwear, which has been used for many decades, is a convenient and effective method of prevention and treatment of varicose veins. However, before you start using it, you need to consult a phlebologist. The doctor will determine what the patient's condition is and help select the most appropriate product.

Today, compression products are extremely popular. Many are so surprised by the result of their use that they wear them almost constantly. Others, on the contrary, are very critical of such products, refuse to follow the instructions of a phlebologist. What are compression stockings, what is the essence of anti-varicose underwear, and can I buy it at a pharmacy?

What are compression stockings

Medical therapeutic and prophylactic products made of elastic material, which have a therapeutic effect on the legs, veins of the lower extremities, are called compression stockings. In most cases, they are recommended to be worn at the first sign of varicose veins, which is why they are also called anti-varicose veins. They changed the elastic bandages, which are impractical to use. Anti-varicose stockings do not cause allergies, are well ventilated, effective, differ little in appearance from the usual ones.

Compression levels

Products differ in the level of compression, each has its own specific class. They are divided according to the force with which they can pull. Each degree has its own characteristics:

First class compression is 23 mmHg. Art. These products are recommended for people with spider veins on the skin, and if the work is associated with a constant impact on the legs, fatigue is felt at the end of the day.
Linen of the 2nd class of compression exerts a pressure of about 33 mm Hg. Art. It is prescribed for thrombophlebitis and developing varicose veins.
Products of the 3rd level of compression have a pressure of up to 46 mm Hg. st, and is prescribed for venous insufficiency.
For class 4, compression is more than 50 mm Hg. st (maximum pressure). Such stockings are prescribed by a doctor to reduce swelling and normalize lymph circulation.

A medical device of the 1st class can be chosen by a person on his own, without the recommendations of a doctor, without making a mistake with the choice of size. You can buy the right products of the 2nd and 3rd compression classes together with a phlebologist. Class 4 products can only be purchased with a prescription, and only in pharmacies that sell products with an orthopedic effect. The doctor will tell you not only the right model, but also the rules for caring for such products.

Indications for use

Experts are of the opinion that compression products should be worn both for the prevention of varicose veins, and at its first signs. Buying stockings for surgery is also sometimes necessary when agreed with the doctor. The indications for their use are:

manifestation of the vascular network;
constant work on your feet;
pregnancy;
discomfort when walking, decompression sickness;
the appearance of edema;
phlebeurysm;
rehabilitation postoperative period.

Contraindications

There are a number of cases when compression products should be used with caution, under the supervision of the attending physician. It is strictly forbidden to use such products in the development of chronic diseases of the arteries of the legs, which have arisen due to a decrease in the lumen of blood vessels with a pressure below 80 mm. rt. Art.: aortoarteritis, atherosclerosis, endarteritis. Relative contraindications include:

eczema;
necrosis;
open wounds;
dermatitis;
heart failure;
diabetes.

How to wear compression stockings

Recommendations for putting on compression underwear can be given by doctors, or you can study them yourself in the instructions. It is recommended to put on stockings after sleep, without getting out of bed. The main thing is to correctly distribute the stocking, because the level of compression and treatment depends on it. At the first application, unusual sensations of squeezing, cold may be present. This is normal, because the venous blood flow is accelerated, the walls of the veins are aligned. After 2-3 days, the limbs get used to it. The stocking should be evenly distributed throughout the leg, providing the correct degree of compression.

The dressing process takes about 15 minutes. If the size is chosen correctly, but it is difficult to do it yourself, then they use a special device for putting this jersey on the lower limbs. Facilitates the donning of special silk gloves, which are not recommended for any other purpose. The time of wearing stockings depends on the appointment of a specialist. For sports activities, it is recommended to wear them for the entire duration of the workout. Pregnant women can use the products throughout the entire period of pregnancy and after childbirth.

Rules for the care of stockings

Stockings for varicose veins should be washed daily. Preference should be given to hand washing in warm water, without the use of detergents and soaps. In order for the product not to lose its shape and properties, it must be dried with a towel. Medical knitwear should not be boiled, twisted, ironed, dried on a radiator. Stain removers and other chemicals should not be used, as they can damage the fiber structure of the product, and it will lose its healing properties.

How to choose compression stockings

In order to choose the right high-quality compression products, you need to take individual measurements from the patient: the size of the hips (5 cm below the gluteal cavity), calves, ankles, height from floor to hips. Particular attention should be paid to.

Vein therapy with compression underwear has been known for a very long time. With the development of medical science, knowledge about the benefits of pressure underwear or bandages has greatly expanded. Most often, compression is used to treat and prevent varicose veins.

Most often, the treatment of varicose veins with the help of pressure knitwear is used by women. It is because of the great popularity among the weaker sex that there are different types of models of anti-varicose clothing. In some medical equipment stores, you can buy tights or stockings even with different patterns and colors.

You should not succumb to fashion trends and buy compression stockings or tights just because of the beautiful look. A person who wants to cure or prevent varicose veins should know how to choose compression stockings, stockings and tights for varicose veins.

Treatment of veins with compression underwear has been known for a very long time.

You also need to know how to choose compression underwear according to the type of fabric from which it is made. Most often, anti-varicose clothing is made from stretchy cotton and nylon compounds. Some firms offer a product that consists of lycra and microfiber.

Indications for the use of underwear

The question of how to choose compression underwear arises along with the need to use it.

There are three main indications for which a phlebologist can recommend or prescribe the use of anti-varicose underwear:

treatment of varicose veins;
prevention of varicose veins in people who are at risk;
postoperative therapeutic compression of the veins.

Treatment of varicose veins with underwear

The therapeutic effect occurs due to the squeezing of the enlarged vein from the outside with special clothing, while the muscles and fascia are pressed on it from the inside. As a result of bilateral compression, the vein returns to its normal state, after which the processes of regeneration and restoration of the elasticity of the walls of the vein and its valves begin to take place. If therapy is not always justified in terms of complete treatment, then it definitely stops the progression of the disease and prevents the occurrence of complications in the form of thrombosis and thrombophlebitis.

Wearing for the purpose of prevention is recommended for people who have risk factors and a burdened family history. Varicose veins are inherited or formed as a result of heavy physical exertion. In many cases, varicose veins are formed against the background of excess body weight. If you fall into a group of people who may develop varicose veins, try to wear compression stockings. If permanent use is not possible, use elastic bandages or tight clothing when playing sports or when standing or sitting for long periods of time.

Postoperative prophylaxis is aimed at reducing the risk of recurrence. The fact is that after the removal or obturation of a varicose vein, neighboring veins begin to experience increased stress, as a result of which a new focus of varicose veins may form. If we describe the importance of compression after sclerotherapy, laser and radiofrequency ablation, then it should be said that the better compression is created after the procedure, the tighter the varicose vein will “stick together”.

The therapeutic effect occurs due to squeezing the enlarged vein from the outside with special clothing.

Varieties of models

As already mentioned, there are a large number of different models and types of knitted compression underwear. The most popular options remain:

anti-varicose tights (with open and closed toe);
anti-varicose stockings;
anti-varicose stockings.

The choice of compression stockings is always difficult, but if you know all the medical subtleties, there will be no problems with how to choose the right compression stockings, stockings or stockings.

tights

Stockings are a very convenient and practical way to treat varicose veins. At the moment, there are many varieties of tights that are no different from ordinary ones and can be used daily.

Compression tights for varicose veins

How to choose compression stockings

Before buying compression stockings for varicose veins, you should understand that this type of knitwear is most often used during the development of a bilateral lesion or for targeted prevention.

You need to choose the material that you like the most in terms of sensations. Usually, all materials for anti-varicose underwear are hypoallergenic and do not cause external irritation.

Before buying, you should consult your doctor to determine which compression grade you need. The exception is products whose pressure does not exceed 20 mm Hg.

If the question arises about choosing a company, then Ral-GZ-387 uses the best reviews.

Tights are very well suited for pregnant women, but when buying such models of anti-varicose tights, you should carefully examine the packaging, which should have a stamp on permission to use during pregnancy.

Compression stockings are very good for pregnant women

Stockings

There are stockings for men and women. Stockings for women have a different design - patterns and colors. Stockings can be both therapeutic and prophylactic. The undoubted advantage of this model is the possibility of using it for varicose veins on one leg.

How to choose the right compression stockings

Just as in the case of tights, stockings are selected for a specific purpose. If you need to buy such an accessory for the purpose of prevention, you must purchase those stockings whose pressure does not exceed 20 mm Hg.

If underwear is bought for the purpose of treatment or postoperative prophylaxis, it is necessary to consult with a phlebologist before purchasing.

There are stockings that have a classic shape, and stockings that are fastened with special belts. There is no significant difference in the therapeutic effect, but each person must determine which model will be more convenient for him.

Compression stockings for varicose veins

Knee socks

Socks are a shortened form of stockings. Like tights, stockings come in a variety of styles, colors, and sizes. Allocate men's and women's stockings. It is most correct to use this accessory for varicose veins, which is localized in the lower or middle part of the lower leg.

How to choose knee socks

When choosing golfs, the first thing you should pay attention to is the size of the foot and the circumference of the lower leg. In the case of tights and stockings, several sizes are distinguished. If we talk about golf, then you should measure the size of the foot, the girth of the lower leg from the bottom and in the middle.

The material for the manufacture of golf is no different from the rest and is hypoallergenic. There are special compression stockings that can be worn even in winter.

Compression stockings for varicose veins

Selection by parameters

Each doctor describes to patients how to choose the right compression garment. The most important points are:

the degree of underwear compression at different points of the leg;
leg circumference size (usually in three standard points);
material that is most suitable for the patient;
no contraindications to wearing anti-varicose clothing.

Compression

There are three basic compression classes. Each class of underwear has its own indications.

Types of compression:

1st compression class. It has a pressure level that is in the range of 10–20 mm. mercury column. Underwear with such a squeezing force can be worn to prevent varicose veins, even without a doctor's prescription.

Compression tights VENOSAN 5001, compression class 1

genetic predisposition to the development of varicose veins of the legs;
slight expansion of the saphenous veins in the form of stars and meshes;
obesity;
static work;
minor swelling.

Compression class 2 has a squeezing force that is in the range of 22–25 mmHg. It should only be used after consultation with a vascular surgeon. Indications for use are:

varicose veins with significant changes;
thrombophlebitis of subcutaneous veins;
increased risk of blood clots;
postoperative compression after sclerotherapy or vein surgery.

Women's stockings 2nd compression class

Class 3 compression has a compression force ranging from 30 to 48 mmHg. Indications for the appointment of underwear of this level are:

varicose veins of 2-3 degrees;
the occurrence of trophic skin disorders;
lymphostasis and edema;
congenital anomalies in the structure of the vessels of the lower limb;
prevention of deep vein thrombosis of the lower limb;
post-thrombotic syndrome;
chronic insufficiency of the venous walls and their valves.

When wearing underwear of the second and third class, the patient may experience symptoms of numbness and coldness in the extremities. This condition can be normal, usually one hour is enough for the symptoms to disappear.

Anti-varicose stockings 3rd compression class

Size

How to measure your leg for compression stockings and tights

The thickness of the legs of people is different, and the degree of compression directly depends on how stretched the stocking or tights are. To choose the right compression stockings, stockings and tights, you should take measurements of the circumference of the legs at three points:

the transition of the foot to the lower leg or above the ankle joint (the thinnest place of the lower leg) 1-2 cm above the bones. The pressure in this area should be 100%.
Mid-calf. Exactly in the middle part it is necessary to determine the diameter of the leg. The pressure at this point should be 70%.
From the top of the knee to the hip, after which the largest size is selected. This is a very important size, especially when choosing stockings. The pressure at this point should be 40%.

How to measure your leg for compression stockings

When measuring the leg, you should use the first two sizes, only shift the second slightly up.

Use measurements to determine the model and number. The number can be found using special tables. If you have any questions about sizes, sales assistants will tell you which jersey number is right for you.

How to properly care

Compression garments are very expensive. To extend the period of its effectiveness, you should adhere to the following rules:

Wash every time after long wear. Skin secretions can adversely affect the quality and integrity of the fabric from which anti-varicose stockings or compression stockings are made.
You need to wash it mainly by hand or in a washing machine on the most gentle modes in cold water, as things can be damaged in a washing machine.
Laundry should be dried in the unfolded form without the influence of heat and ultraviolet radiation.
It is necessary to properly dress underwear with the help of butlers.

Every time you put on or take off your compression garment, try to use rubber gloves.

university: NMU named after academician A.A. Bogomolets.

Year of issue: 1999.

Specialization: surgery, proctology.

Work experience:

TsKG, Kiev. September 2013 - present. Curation of patients with a cardiovascular profile. Operative treatment.

Currently chronic vein disease and varicose veins over 30 million people suffer throughout Russia. Diseases of the veins have varying degrees of severity.

Factors that can significantly affect the occurrence of this disease are heredity, hormonal changes, a sedentary lifestyle, sedentary or standing work, overweight, pregnancy. Fortunately, there are many types, models and classes of compression underwear on the market today. Among the models, each patient, or a person who decides to carry out the prevention of varicose veins, can choose the appropriate type of knitwear at an affordable price.

How to understand that it is time to resort to the search and purchase of linen used for varicose veins? Manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency (according to the severity of the disease) are varied:
- leg fatigue;
- swelling, increasing by the end of the day;
- pain in the legs, worse in the evening;
- cramps in the calf muscles during a night's rest;
- varicose veins;
- venous dermatitis and eczema.

Compression therapy is the generally accepted basis for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Products that are used in the treatment of varicose veins have many options: compression stockings, compression stockings, leggings, compression stockings. Compression tights are made especially for men.

Compression therapy is based on wearing special knitwear , , compression class(depending on the stage of the disease), which allows effective treatment and prevention of diseases such as varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, etc. Compression stockings are designed to properly apply pressure to the legs in the right places. By acting on a vein with different force (stronger at the ankle, less at the hip), compression knitwear allows you to speed up the passage of blood through it. Such an effect is called distributed or graduated compression (from the main word compression - compression). The higher the compression class, the stronger the pressure at the ankle exerted on the wall of the veins.

Compression hosiery improves blood circulation, reduces fatigue in the legs, reduces swelling, improves well-being .

Graduated compression

Compression stockings provide distributed pressure to increase muscle tone, reduce fatigue and improve well-being.

The range of compression stockings is represented by compression golf stockings and tights with different compression classes. Compression on products is distributed as follows: at the ankle, the pressure is maximum and is 100%, as you move up, the pressure decreases and under the knee it is already about 70%. In the thighs, the pressure is 40-50%. Distributed pressure ensures the correct circulation of blood flow from the bottom up.

For the prophylactic compression class, the pressure at the ankle is below 18 mmHg. Art.;

Awareness of the first signs:

In the life of every person there are situations when there is discomfort in the legs, it seems that the shoes have become tight. Even athletes experience similar symptoms after long workouts. Usually this condition is observed after a long working day spent "on the legs", after flights, during a long immobile position, when it seems that "the legs are numb". These phenomena are not yet signs of venous disease. However, immobility for a long time provokes stagnation of blood in the veins of the legs and can cause the development of vein disease. Therefore, in situations where edema can be provoked, it is necessary to use compression stockings. preventive class. Buying preventive knitwear is a low price for the health of your feet in the future!

Purpose of the preventive class:

With factors that provoke swelling of the legs: a long stay "standing" (for example, waiters, sellers) or "sitting" (for example, in the office, at the computer)
- Frequent travel and air travel, including first class, which seems to have more legroom
- Sedentary lifestyle

- Prevention of the syndrome of "tired legs"
- Tendency to edema

Awareness of the first signs:

By the end of the evening, your legs swell, you feel tired and you are worried about pain in your legs. These are the first signs of the initial stage of chronic venous insufficiency, and to prevent the development of a more severe form of venous disease, compression therapy using one of the types of compression stockings is necessary. As a therapy for preventing the development of venous disease, class 1 compression stockings will help. The compression product contributes to better functioning of the venous valves, stabilizes blood circulation.

Appointment 1 class:

- The initial stage of chronic varicose insufficiency, prevention of the formation of a venous network
- Genetic predisposition
- Excessive load on the lower limbs (overweight)
- Taking contraceptives
- Frequent leg cramps
- Syndrome of "tired legs"
- Swelling of the legs by the end of the working day

Awareness of the first signs:

The veins on your legs are pronounced, varicose veins have appeared, the pain in your legs has intensified, the swelling does not subside overnight. The presence of these symptoms indicates the need for compression therapy. Compression hosiery reduces the risk of developing CVI, improves the condition of the lower extremities and contributes to a better functioning of the venous system. Buying a pair of medical underwear every six months is a low price for the health of the legs. Underwear of the second class of compression is prescribed by a doctor after examination.

Appointment 2nd class:

- Dilated superficial veins and multiple spider veins
- Prominent vascular networks
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Severe swelling of the legs

Awareness of the first signs:

If you have chronic venous disease, then you need to consult a doctor. On the basis of his prescriptions, compression stockings of the 3rd compression class can be prescribed.

During pregnancy, women change the hormonal background and plasticity of the veins, increased weight, which increases the risk of developing varicose veins increases significantly. Compression knitwear will help to avoid and prevent the development of varicose veins for pregnant

The appointment of class 1 for pregnant women is 18-21 mm Hg. Art.

- Prevention of CVI during pregnancy
- The initial stage of chronic varicose insufficiency, prevention of the formation of a venous network
- Syndrome of "tired legs"
- Swelling of the legs at the end of the day

Class 2 appointment for pregnant women - 23-32 mm Hg. Art.

- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Dilated superficial veins and prominent spider veins
- Multiple vascular networks
- Severe swelling of the legs by the end of the day
- Prevention of deep vein thrombosis

If you have surgery, childbirth, rehabilitation after surgery on the lower extremities or prolonged bed rest, you should think about the use of hospital compression stockings. With bed rest, blood flow in the veins of the legs slows down, leading to stagnation of blood; with surgical interventions and childbirth, there is a risk of thromboembolism. Hospital knitwear will help speed up blood circulation, prevent thromboembolism during childbirth and operations. Today, the market offers many models of hospital knitwear at affordable prices.

Appointment of hospital jersey:

- Operational interventions
- Prevention of deep vein thrombosis (for people with varicose veins, after surgery on the veins of the legs (sclerotherapy))
- Prevention of thromboembolism
- Before and after childbirth, as well as during childbirth
- Bedridden patients staying in bed for a long time

Tight jersey or transparent.

If the veins are strongly pronounced on the leg and this constrains you, then to hide the visible manifestations of venous disease, compression stockings made of dense material. In addition, dense material is great to use in autumn, winter, as it is warmer than transparent. For everything else, transparent knitwear is suitable.

Transparent jersey used in daily life, you can wear it with a skirt, trousers. And the elegant look of the product will allow a woman to forget that this is medical knitwear.

Tight compression stockings will help hide the visible manifestations of varicose veins (bulging veins, varicose veins) and protect the legs from the further development of varicose veins.

Does compression depend on the amountDEN?

Many mistakenly believe that the higher the DEN number, the higher the compression class. But in fact, DEN is a number that only indicates the density of the material and has nothing to do with compression. Only pressure in mm Hg. Art. determines the therapeutic effect of compression stockings.

Sizing method

How to choose the right size?

It is very important to choose a jersey of your size, otherwise the effect on the lower limbs will not be high enough. It is recommended to make changes and select compression stockings according to the relevant tables. Such measurements should be carried out in the morning, immediately after waking up, and they are quite laborious.

Dimensional table of correspondences for women's tights, stockings, golf:

Measurement	Foot size	Ankle circumference	Calf circumference	Thigh circumference	Waist circumference (for women's tights)	Length from floor to level d	Length from floor to g
Size

Measurement table for men's stockings, golf:

Measurement	Foot size	Ankle circumference	Calf circumference	Thigh circumference	Length from floor to level d	Length from floor to g
Size

What jersey should the doctor prescribe?

What class of compression to use can only be advised by a phlebologist, since it is impossible to make a diagnosis at home. The doctor, first of all, prescribes procedures to determine the degree of varicose veins or venous disease. And only after the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes compression stockings of the required class for the patient. In general, we can say that if you have minor symptoms, such as swelling of the legs in the evening, “heavy legs” syndrome, or you have a sedentary lifestyle, sedentary work, then a preventive class or compression class 1 is suitable for solving this problem. Moreover, these compression classes can be used without a doctor's prescription. If you already have severe leg vein disease and need enhanced protection with a higher compression class (compression class 2, 3), then you need obligatory medical consultation.

The price of compression products, as a rule, is several times higher than the price of ordinary elastic tights and stockings. The increase in price is due to the fact that especially strong medical threads are used in compression products, which have nothing to do with those from which stockings are made. In addition, compression underwear is distinguished by a special design and knitting technique, which also increases the cost of production. But a few thousand rubles is a low price for the opportunity to improve your health and avoid surgery.