Compression jersey It 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 complex treatment regimen, as well as for the prevention of this disease. In medicine, special underwear for veins is called medical jersey. It is also called compression or anti-varicose underwear, medical jersey.

Tights, socks, as well as compression knee-highs for varicose veins are recommended to be worn by phlebologists. Such underwear must be worn even when lymphedema and for 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 the vessels, squeeze the dilated vein. This, in turn, evenly redistributes blood flow from dilated vessels to healthy ones.

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

Choosing the right compression hosiery can help reduce the risk of developing blood clots .

Another important argument in favor of using such underwear is that there are almost no contraindications to the use of medical jersey. 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 used elastic bandages ... However, their use has several significant disadvantages.

• 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. Not aesthetic appearance does not allow wearing it daily, whereas, for example, compression underwear Medi and knitwear from other modern manufacturers looks very beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.
• Despite the fact that the 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? Compressing the dilated veins, this jersey 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 is better for varicose veins 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 wrist to the shoulder or from the lower leg to the thigh.

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

• The work of the valve apparatus improves and returns to normal.
• The dilated lumen of the peripheral veins of the thighs and lower legs, especially the subcutaneous ones, decreases.
• The muscle pump effect is increased. When muscles contract during exercise, blood is pushed upward.

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

How to choose compression hosiery?

Before choosing compression hosiery 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 jersey mimics the situation as if the 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 will the effect be maximized. It is very important not only to wear compression underwear, but also to use 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.

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 for linen, but also its quality, compression classes.

Compression hosiery is usually divided into three types:

• hospital - that is, one that is used exclusively in a hospital environment;
• curative ;
• prophylactic .

But, regardless of whether jersey is needed for treatment or prevention, it should be bought exclusively in specialized stores or at outlets that are official dealers of manufacturers of such underwear recognized by doctors. It is important that in such stores consumers must be assisted in choosing the right size for the jersey, since the effectiveness of the treatment depends on this. To find the perfect underwear, the salesperson first measures the leg at four locations. 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 the quality of the Sigvaris knitwear, which costs between 4000-5000 rubles. But there are many positive reviews about Medi knitwear, the price of which is lower - about 3000 rubles. You can find out more about this underwear and choose Medi compression hosiery on the company's official website. Compression underwear from Venotex and Orto is also of high quality, prices for which are slightly lower - from 2000 rubles.

You can buy underwear in four degrees of compression:

• First class compression (18-21 mm Hg) - preventive jersey, the wearing of which is indicated in the following cases:
  • during pregnancy ;
  • with a tendency to varicose veins ;
  • in the presence of the initial symptoms of varicose veins: if the veins are visible under the skin, after prolonged standing or sitting, the legs hurt, you can distinguish pronounced spider veins 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 class of compression (23-32 mm Hg) - the most popular underwear. Compression hosiery of the 2nd class of compression is used for the purpose of treatment varicose veins , thrombophlebitis ... The hospital also uses compression class 2 hospital hosiery.
• Third class of compression (34-46 mm Hg) - compression tights of this class are used for patients with trophic disorders and severe venous insufficiency.
• Fourth class of compression (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 the 2nd class of compression. After all, it may well be that this will be too strong compression for the vascular system.

First, it is better to buy inexpensive underwear - the price of 1st class 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 class 1 underwear is used. If a person already develops varicose veins, then a phlebologist will help to 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 perceptible 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 its help, since wearing underwear does not eliminate the causes of the disease. Compression hosiery helps to stop the development of the disease and prevent the emergence of new varicose veins.

In hot summer weather, it is impossible to wear such underwear, therefore, during the summer, you need to use medications 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 tights correctly - this is indicated in the instructions.

Regardless of what the price of such linen is, it can keep 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. Specific quality standards have been defined for compression garments. The most important and strict among them is European RAL-GZ-387 .

Any manufacturer seeking to produce knitwear that matches it must initially go through 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 such a certificate provides pressure that is distributed over the limb (40-70-100%) and is curative. 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 knee-highs 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 certainly be prompted how to determine the size, for both men and women. In trusted stores, you need to buy compression hosiery 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, first of all, on personal feelings. The linen must have the sign of the European eco-safety standard Oeko-Tex Standard 10 - this ensures that the product is made of non-caustic material.

How to put on compression stockings correctly?

When buying medicated 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 class 2 compression stockings. After all, both the efficiency and the price of compression class 2 compression stockings are often the most acceptable for the patient. Nevertheless, it often happens that products of the 2nd degree of compression are very inconvenient 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 does not wear such a product correctly. After all, it cannot be worn like tights for a child, gathered in an accordion and pulling the stocking up to the thigh. Both tights and knee-highs or stockings should be put on slowly, gradually spreading them over the leg.

Such underwear will be difficult to put on for obese people. To facilitate this process, you can purchase special tools in the store. How much such devices cost depends on the manufacturer. Compression hosiery should be worn with gloves so as not to damage the linen with nails. In addition, if a person is wearing medical or other gloves, then the linen glides better.

If the 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 (by Orto and others) is lower. However, the price of stockings for varicose veins on the legs depends on other factors.

A person who wears medical jersey should have smooth feet - without roughness, calluses. Cut your toenails short and file them with a nail file to avoid puffs on your laundry.

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

For those who are interested in whether it is possible to sleep in such stockings, you 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. For this, it is better to use special devices.

If the size chart provided on a particular site seems unclear, 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, both putting on and wearing such underwear will be extremely inconvenient.

It is important to take proper care of such items 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 jersey. After all, you need to wash it daily to get rid of dust, debris and dead skin particles, which can very quickly damage the fibers of the laundry.

Washing is carried out only by hand, using baby soap. Such linen cannot be washed in a typewriter. It is necessary to wash at a temperature of no more than 40 C. It is forbidden to iron and bleach it. Also, do not use conditioners and rinses. After all, they also destroy the structure of the constricting tissue.

The compression hosiery is dried by spreading it out on a horizontal surface. You cannot twist and wring it out, you can easily get wet with a towel. Drying of jersey in the sun, battery in a vertical position is not allowed.

You need to be very careful with the silicone strips, which are important for fixing the laundry. During washing, it is better not to wet them and wipe them with a disinfectant napkin.

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 underwear

Before choosing compression knee-highs for varicose veins, you need to clearly know if the patient has contraindications to wearing them. Medical jersey has several such contraindications.

Wearing medical jersey is absolutely contraindicated for such diseases:

• endoarteritis ;
• orthoarteritis ;
• thromboangiitis obliterans .

Under such conditions, the vascular lumen , and the systolic is reduced to 80 mm. rt. Art., therefore, it is strictly forbidden to reduce the pressure in the lower extremities.

Compression garments should be worn very carefully for those who have problems with the skin and high sensitivity of the skin.

You should not wear stockings or tights for allergic manifestations and inflammatory processes on the skin, as well as for bedsores, open wounds.

If varicose veins are manifested as a result of a disease diabetes , such underwear cannot be used either. Compression hosiery is not used in case septic phlebitis , cardiopulmonary failure in severe form, if circulatory problems manifest at rest.

You can also find the opinion that jersey can provoke atrophy of the muscle layer of the vein walls ... When a person stops wearing medical underwear, the opposite effect is likely, as a result of which the venous wall will stretch, and varicose veins will progress even more.

Of course, there is no way to check the condition of each vein in a person wearing such underwear. However, most phlebologists consider this theory to be erroneous, citing the following evidence in favor of this:

• a person cannot wear medical jersey 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 disposition, as well as if a local specific inflammatory process develops during venous congestion, and when using knitwear, these phenomena decrease;
• sometimes, after stopping the use of linen, initially a person feels a little worse, since for a while the tone of the venous wall decreases, but we are not talking about atrophy.

Also, after the end of the period of wearing such underwear, people with varicose veins may feel that it has become more difficult for them to walk. Therefore, many people choose not to give up wearing it.

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

Updated: 13.02.2018 17:36:42

Varicose veins (varicose veins) of the lower extremities become a serious problem for women with age. With it, the valves of the internal veins cease to close. Prevention, including the use of compression stockings, plays an important role in the fight against diseases of the venous system. Special underwear helps to achieve a therapeutic effect and positive results with regular use.

The best manufacturers of compression stockings, which company to choose?

Compression hosiery is used for a specific purpose - the fight against diseases of the venous system. It helps to get a positive effect, so it is better to consider when buying products from trusted manufacturers. There are not many brands in this segment that have achieved positive product reviews.

Medi

The German quality of Medi jersey is confirmed by Russian and foreign research. The stockings meet the requirements of the RAL-GZ 387 standard, which is one of the most stringent. Doctors mark this brand, and in Germany the company is the market leader.

Bauerfeind

The German company Bauerfeind specializes in the production of orthopedic products using innovative technologies and solutions. It has been supplying products to athletes at the Olympics for a long time. Today her bandages, knee pads and compression stockings are found at low prices in our stores and pharmacies.

Sigvaris

Sigvaris from Switzerland is a competitor to German manufacturers. Her compression stockings have received a lot of positive feedback from doctors. The products are certified according to the RAL-GZ 387 standard. Relatively recently, the company has begun to develop the Russian market as well.

Orto

Orto products are manufactured with material innovation in mind. The Spanish brand develops the European markets, attracting with low prices and a variety of products.

The principle of operation and features of compression stockings

Varicose veins are a disease that occurs when the narrowing of the inner wall of the veins stops. The cause of the problem is a sedentary lifestyle, wearing high-heeled shoes, pregnancy and heredity. Girls are offered to wear compression stockings as prevention and effective therapy. They are used even at advanced stages.

The task of such knitted underwear is to improve blood circulation. Normal microcirculation of blood in the legs is the main means of combating venous expansion.

The beneficial effect of stockings is manifested in the following:

blood circulation improves;

the normal functioning of the veins is restored;

reduces swelling and the risk of thrombosis;

general leg fatigue decreases at the end of the day.

Stockings stimulate blood circulation, due to which the tissues are better saturated with oxygen. This helps to achieve positive aspects.

Special underwear is made to apply pressure to the right areas. It is distributed from top to bottom - from the thigh to the ankle. At the top, the pressure is maximum, and at the bottom, it is minimum. This allows you to artificially restore the natural situation for muscles and veins while walking. People with a sedentary job and a sedentary lifestyle need this first.

Compression stockings differ in features:

use of lightweight and elastic materials;

seamless structure that provides pressure in the right places;

breathability.

Such stockings are hypoallergenic, therefore they are used without problems by women who feel constant fatigue in their legs and have spider veins. Specialty jerseys from the brands are superior to stockings and simple elastic bandages.

Types of compression stockings

Special compression hosiery is used both in the early and advanced stages of varicose veins. There are models to choose from that differ in size and compression ratio. Depending on this, there are several types of linen:

preventive;

Compression class 2 and 3;

Compression class 4 (medical).

They are used in situations taking into account the individual characteristics of the organism and the stage of development of varicose veins.

Preventive stockings

Zero compression class is used exclusively for prophylaxis and is worn without consulting a doctor. They are used by girls with sedentary work, who by the end of the day experience discomfort from slight swelling. They are also recommended to be worn during pregnancy. The compression level is up to 18 mm Hg.

These stockings help relieve tension in the legs, relieve varicose congestion and promote recovery from stress.

Dignity

versatility of application;

stimulating blood circulation to prevent varicose veins and thrombosis;

attractive appearance;

Flaws

careful attitude and washing is required;

not suitable for serious problems.

Compression class 1 stockings

Stockings are recommended for use in case of unstable edema and at the first signs of varicose veins. They exert versatile pressure on the legs, preventing disturbances in the functioning of the circulatory system. Such products are recommended for pregnant women and people with a genetic predisposition to varicose veins during sedentary work.

Dignity

improved blood circulation, increased muscle tone;

slowing down the development of leg disease;

reduction of swelling in the lower extremities;

Flaws

can not be used around the clock, especially at night;

there are contraindications for use (dermatitis, open wounds).

Compression class 2 and 3 stockings

This type refers to stockings with a pronounced therapeutic effect. They should only be worn on the recommendation of a doctor if there is severe swelling or noticeable pain. In this case, varicose veins have already manifested themselves, and a clear vascular mesh has formed on the legs. The compression ratio ranges from 23 to 44 mm. rt. Art.

Such underwear is used for therapy with progressive vein diseases, as well as related problems. For this, special fabrics and innovative technologies are used.

Dignity

improved blood flow from the periphery to the center;

reducing the risks of developing severe stages of the disease (thrombosis);

easier walking and less heaviness of the legs;

prevention of venous expansion;

Flaws

discomfort while wearing;

extensive contraindications for use (dermatological problems, atherosclerosis, endarteritis and other diseases).

Medical-type knitted stockings are used as directed by a doctor. They are worn only for serious vein problems, as well as after surgery. Stockings with a high degree of compression (over 50 mm Hg) are also prescribed for bedridden patients to eliminate problems with lymph outflow or when severe edema appears.

Such stockings are not always commercially available, because they are required only in the late stages of varicose veins or when recovering from surgery.

Dignity

solving problems with puffiness and varicose veins;

restoration of blood circulation and tissue oxygenation;

removal of painful sensations and heaviness in the legs;

Flaws

extensive application restrictions.

Options for choosing compression stockings

Stocking varieties have personal characteristics. When choosing, follow the recommendations of doctors and pay attention to the specific characteristics of a particular product.

The parameters include:

compression level - the force of the applied pressure;

materials of manufacture - affect the durability and ease of use;

trademark.

The pressure applied to the skin surface is the primary selection criterion. Preventive stockings will not help with varicose veins that have already begun. At the same time, if you use products that exert too much pressure, the natural movement of lymph is disrupted.

An important factor is the material of manufacture. Such products are manufactured using a special technology. Synthetics are often added today for strength and elasticity, but they must be breathable. The density of the fabric (DEN) affects the compression properties and several other parameters.

In appearance, stockings can be divided:

classic;

models with silicone rubber;

models with a sticky belt.

It is important to choose models that will be below the belly line. In this way, the correct distribution of pressure is ensured and the aesthetic appeal is preserved.

How to choose compression stockings?

A verified brand and place of purchase are often a guarantee of the quality of the product, otherwise it is easy to run into a fake.

For the correct size selection, several aspects are taken into account:

leg length;

thigh girth just below the groin;

girths of a wide and narrow place of a shin.

With a leg length of 65-68 cm, the shin girth is 42-45 cm, and the narrow part of the shin is 18-21 cm.If the leg length is 73-75 cm, then the thigh girth is about 52-55 cm.

When choosing, you need to clearly understand for what purposes compression underwear is required. Preventive stockings are suitable for those who are simply worried about leg health. If spider veins have already begun to appear on the legs, signs of swelling and varicose veins, then stockings of 1 or 2 levels of compression are required. In other cases, consult your doctor.

How much do compression stockings cost?

The cost of simple preventive stockings ranges from 800 to 1500 rubles.

The price of class 1,2,3 compression stockings varies from 1,500 to 6,000 rubles.

Class 4 medical stockings cost more than 4000-5000 rubles.

Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a purchase guide.

Compression knitwear: types, classification, selection, recommendations for wearing, review of manufacturers

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 the supply of nutrients and oxygen to tissues.
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 underwear can also be worn by healthy people at risk on the occurrence of diseases of the venous vessels of the lower extremities. It is useful for teachers and salespeople, hairdressers and drivers, as well as representatives of other professions whose work 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 compression garments are presented in different types, we will consider each of them.

Tights and stockings

Compression tights are the most popular type of medical underwear. 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 compression underwear can be combined with the use of cosmetics for the legs and medicinal preparations in the form of ointments and creams. But it is better if they are applied before bedtime, after the 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 quite wide today. Special knee-highs have been created for travelers and people leading an active lifestyle, preventive and for constant wear for therapeutic 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, as it is the cheapest type of knitwear used to prevent venous vascular disease. 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, let the blood flow 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 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 congestion 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 both transparent and 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 with 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 of good quality. Compression lasts up to 4 months, but they wear out quickly on the toes and feet.

Medical jersey Venotex

Compression underwear VenoteksTherapy (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 above 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 1,300 rubles), but they fully correspond to the quality of the products. All products are comfortable to wear, easy to care for, and have a high degree of wear resistance. Stockings, knee-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, it is worth giving up the purchase 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 the 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 foot 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 a tall person, the 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 the 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, 1st class or preventive underwear. 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.

• It is recommended to wash the compression garments daily by hand without twisting or wringing them out.
• 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, it is better to purchase two pairs at once (for reliability and ease of caring for them).

Video: phlebologist about compression underwear

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

What are compression stockings

Medical treatment-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, therefore 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 ordinary ones.

Compression ratios

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

• The first class compression is 23 mmHg. Art. These products are recommended for people with spider veins on the skin, and if the work involves constant exposure to the legs, fatigue is felt at the end of the day.
• Underwear of the 2nd class of compression has 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. Art, and is prescribed for venous insufficiency.
• For grade 4, the compression is more than 50 mm Hg. st (maximum pressure). These stockings are prescribed by a doctor to reduce swelling and normalize lymph circulation.

A person can choose a medical device of the 1st class on their own, without the recommendation of a doctor, without being mistaken with the choice of size. You can purchase the correct 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 orthopedic effects. 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 the first signs of it. It is also sometimes necessary to buy stockings for the operation when it is agreed with the doctor. The indications for their use are:

• manifestation of the vascular network;
• constant footwork;
• pregnancy;
• discomfort when walking, decompression sickness;
• the appearance of edema;
• phlebeurysm;
• rehabilitation postoperative period.

Contraindications

There are a number of cases where compression products must be used with caution, under the supervision of a 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 correctly

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 stockings, because the level of compression and treatment depend on this. During the first application, there may be unusual sensations of squeezing, cold. This is normal, because 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 spaced across the entire leg to provide the correct amount of compression.

The dressing procedure takes about 15 minutes. If the size is selected correctly, but it is difficult to do it yourself, then a special device is used to put this jersey on the lower limbs. It makes it easier to put on special silk gloves, which are not recommended to be used 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 workout. Pregnant women can use the products throughout the entire pregnancy and postpartum period.

Stocking care rules

Stockings from varicose veins need to be washed daily. Preference should be given to hand wash in warm water, without the use of detergents and soap. In order for the product not to lose its shape and properties, it is necessary to dry it with a towel. Medical jersey must not be boiled, twisted, ironed, or dried on a battery. Stain removers and other chemicals should not be used, as they can damage the fiber structure of the product, and it will lose its medicinal 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 thighs (5 cm below the gluteal cavity), calves, ankles, the height from the floor to the thighs. Particular attention should be paid to.

Any surgical operation has to deal with additional risk factors in addition to the underlying disease. One of these factors is the risk of thrombosis and thromboembolism. This is due to the fact that in response to injury, the body actively produces substances that promote blood clotting. In addition, blood flow slows down during surgery. Together, this leads to a high likelihood of blood clots in the lower extremities.

Compression stockings for surgery provide elastic compression of the legs, which is considered the most effective way to prevent thromboembolism during surgery. For effective use, it is necessary to choose the right jersey. Including, it is very important to know how to choose the size of compression stockings for the operation and the compression class.

Appointment of compression stockings

Anti-embolic stockings for surgery refer to hospital jersey, which is prescribed:

• In the prevention of venous thrombosis and thromboembolism before, during and after surgery and childbirth (including caesarean section).
• During the stay of patients in intensive care and with prolonged bed rest.
• As a means of compression therapy after vein surgery.

Compression classes

The key parameter of these jerseys is the compression class. The purpose of the stockings directly depends on it. The following compression classes are distinguished:

• 1 compression class - assigned during childbirth and the postpartum period (3-6 days), as well as during operations up to 45 minutes in the presence of a patient's disposition to thrombosis. Also, stockings of this class are used for long-term surgical procedures, during the resuscitation period, with a long motionless position of the patient after injuries or certain diseases.
• 2 compression class - assigned in the presence of all indications characteristic of the first group, as well as in the presence of varicose veins and nodes.
• 3 compression class - it is prescribed if the patient has chronic venous insufficiency, severe leg edema, thrombophlebitis of the lower extremities, venous lymphatic insufficiency, and is also used in compression therapy of the legs after surgery.

The choice of the compression class of the stockings for the operation should be made only by a doctor.

Selection of the size of compression stockings during surgery

To select the correct size of compression stockings, you need to take the following measurements:

• Thigh Circumference (G) - Measured 5 cm below the gluteal crease.
• Thigh Circumference (F) - Measured 17-13 cm below the gluteal fold.
• Popliteal Cap Circumference (D) - Measured two fingers below the knee joint.
• The circumference of the area above the ankle (B), which is the thinnest part of the leg.
• Leg length from floor to point D and from floor to point G.

After the measurements have been taken, the results must be substituted in the table for selecting the size of compression stockings for the operation.

Important! Taking measurements and sizing depends on the brand of compression stockings.

Example size chart for Venoteks stockings

What is the correct way to wear compression stockings for surgery?

1. The stockings are put on in the morning before the operation immediately after waking up, while the swelling has not yet appeared on the legs. If the stockings were not put on in the morning, then before putting on you need to lie down for 10-15 minutes with raised legs.
2. After the operation, the patient should also wear antiembolic stockings. The same stockings are used that were on him during the procedure.
3. As a rule, compression hosiery is allowed to be removed at night on the third day after the operation. The exception is those cases when operations were on the veins of the legs. In this case, they must be worn around the clock.
4. Remove anti-embolic stockings when the risk of blood clots is minimal. This period should only be determined by a physician.