Varicose veins stockings: how to choose and use them correctly

Human limbs, arms and legs are the most mobile parts of the body. They are constantly under pressure. Our feet can withstand the load the most - the weight of our body. In addition, they are constantly in a vertical position. In this situation, and under a certain weight, blood flow increases as the pressure on the walls of the blood vessels increases.

And if we consider that the elasticity of blood vessels decreases due to harmful environmental factors, malnutrition and overweight, it is clear that this leads to their elongation. Nodes are formed. And that’s when the first signs of varicose veins appear - the so-called stars on the skin, the heaviness and swelling of the legs. The next stage is a specific disease - protruding nodes, veins. All this is accompanied by painful feelings.

compression stockings for varicose veins

Varicose veins stockings: types

Healing varicose veins requires a radical lifestyle change, a review of our diet, and due attention to the issue of stress. And of course, consider wearing compression, anti-varicose knitwear.

The resulting products can be divided into the following types:

  • stockings - the most comfortable look, but requires some effort when dressing;
  • stockings - recommended for pregnant women and those whose veins above the knee are not affected;
  • golf - very comfortable to wear for men;
  • leggings - recommended for those whose varicose veins affect a small part of the foot;
  • flexible knitting - the cheapest type, but the disadvantage is the inconvenience of use.

It is worth noting the fact that it is recommended to wear such medical orthopedic clothing items after surgery. Attention! Do not wear stockings after surgery, they should be selected by a professional.

What are varicose compression stockings and stockings?

Special orthopedic compression products are made from compression stockings. Their purpose is strictly medical. This type of clothing supports the blood vessels and prevents them from stretching, improving microcirculation. Physicians conclude that such stockings are today a fairly effective way to fight the disease as well as prevent it.

The bonus of such compression stockings or stockings is to prevent blood clots. The structure of the compression jersey products is made of a porous, viscous material that provides a breathable effect in warm weather. Such products use materials that have increased evaporation and preserve the water balance of the skin.

Compression stockings: impact properties

A special feature of the operation of such stockings is that they create an additional framework that supports the veins and protects them from elongation. In addition, the compression of the tissues of the leg protects our feet from fatigue, muscle aches and swellings, and prevents blood from stagnating.

The pressure in the compression stocking is distributed from bottom to top as follows:

  • on the ankle - the maximum, ie up to 100%;
  • kneeling - reduced to 70-75%;
  • at the hip - about 50%;
  • in the groin - not more than 20%;
  • no pressure on the hips and abdomen.

Thus, the rate of blood outflow from the veins of the legs increases.

Compression stockings against varicose veins have a preventive and therapeutic effect. Once you have decided whether to buy anti-varicose stockings or stockings, decide what you need for: prevention during pregnancy and after childbirth, treatment of varicose veins. You can choose a prophylactic drug by size at pharmacies. They don't need a certificate.

The situation is quite different with medical treatment. They are harder to choose. They must have a medical certificate and be selected by your doctor according to your parameters and the stage of the disease. The phlebologist assesses the stage of the disease, the condition of the veins, based on ultrasound data. The size should be chosen very carefully as the stockings almost do not stretch. Too big will not be effective, and small size is inconvenient, inconvenient.

If you have been diagnosed with an illness but do not have the opportunity to see a doctor about buying compression stockings, buy prophylactic stockings first and only then drive based on your feelings and the reaction of your body. one or the other type or size.

According to the international standard, compression stockings have 4 classes.

  1. The first compression class is 18-22 mmHg. Art. - with initial damage to the superficial veins, with the appearance of spider veins. Such stockings significantly reduce pain at the end of the work day and relieve swelling.
  2. The second class of compression is 23-32 mmHg. Art. - deep vein damage. In addition to pain and swelling, nocturnal cramps also appear. It is recommended for thrombophlebitis of moderate varicose veins. Doctors recommend that you always wear such stockings.
  3. The third compression class is 33-45 mmHg. Art. purchased only on the prescription of a phlebologist. Doctors recommend wearing such stockings for deep vein thrombosis and other severe cases.
  4. Fourth compression class - exceeds 50 mmHg. Art. - wear that impairs lymphatic flow and elimination of edema is recommended.

Attention!

  1. Do not confuse regular elastic tights with compression stockings. The density of curative and preventive measures is measured in millimeters of mercury, not in nests.
  2. It is time to wear medical stockings. Up to 6 months. Washing and daily wear makes them unusable.
  3. Compression stockings against good quality varicose veins are not cheap.
  4. If you have any doubts about which brand to buy tights or stockings, buy them under the RAL mark - they meet international quality standards.

How to put on compression stockings for medical varicose veins in women

There are rules for putting on compression stockings that are different from standard clothing items.

  1. Take him to bed immediately after waking up.
  2. This should be done correctly and very carefully, without twisting or stretching the material too much.
  3. The upper part is carefully assembled into an accordion.
  4. Then, placing your palms in the stocking itself, gently pulling the stocking over your foot while not forgetting the correct position of the heel.
  5. Straighten very slowly, tighten the tibia.
  6. Then also gently, gradually pull them over your hips, raising your torso slightly.

Compression stockings for varicose veins can be used to treat and prevent both venous diseases. However, before buying such underwear, be sure to consult, because self-care can have negative consequences for your health. Good luck!