Compression underwear for varicose veins is an essential component of the complex treatment and postoperative therapy of vascular pathologies of the lower extremities.
As is well known, varicose veins are a disorder of the venous valves that results in blood stagnation, vascular deformity, and swelling.
Therapeutic measures are required to prevent or stop the destructive process of stretching venous walls: taking venotonics, vasoconstrictors, using gels and ointments for external use, and mechanically supporting the blood vessels and adjacent tissues from the blood. outside.
For this purpose, special underwear is used to treat varicose veins on the legs, or compression stockings.
How to choose compression underwear for varicose veins, which is best for a given patient, given modern diversity? In this material you will find the answers to this and other questions.
The essence of the therapeutic effect
How does compression underwear work with varicose veins, how does it help eliminate painful symptoms?
The main feature of knitwear for the treatment of varicose veins is the gradual (i. e. , varied, transient) distribution of compression compression over the entire length of the foot, depending on the area.
So near the heel, at the bottom of the ankle, the degree of compression reaches its maximum value - 100%.
As it rises higher to the popliteal region, the compression begins to gradually decrease and reaches 70% of the index in the knee region.
And finally, at the bottom of the thigh, the level of compression in the hip region is minimal, about 40%.
Due to the gradual compression, the blood vessels in the legs are properly supported, the venous blood flow is normalized, and it acquires continuity and evenness, which has a positive effect on the condition of the vessel walls and the well-being of the patient in general. .
What happens as a result
When wearing compression stockings, a complex therapeutic effect occurs, which is expressed by the following positive factors:
- Thanks to the mechanical support, the blood vessels are protected from abnormal elongation and the venous lumen is reduced to normal.
- Blood clotting due to deformation of the venous walls will be eliminated, its structure will be less viscous and the risk of thrombosis will be reduced.
- As a result of the compression of the blood vessels, the venous valves regain their former strength and healthy functioning, ensuring the continuity of blood circulation from the heart to the lower extremities and vice versa.
- Capillary blood flow is normalized, resulting in normalization of tissue nutrition and oxygen exchange, and cessation of lymphostasis in the legs.
Indications for use
What is the purpose of medical underwear? The answer is obvious - in the treatment of vascular dysfunctions in the lower extremities.
- Above all, compression knitwear is used to treat varicose veins at all stages of development.
- In the case of phlebitis, periphlebitis, such underwear helps to prevent the patient's condition from deteriorating.
- For pregnant women, wearing a good medical bandage is a guarantee to maintain the health of the blood vessels in the leg, which is at risk due to increased stress and hormonal changes.
- Compression products are also used for athletes because the lower extremities suffer a heavy load during exercise.
- In addition, therapeutic underwear is recommended in the postoperative period after phlebectomy, sclerotherapy, laser coagulation of venous vessels, and operations to remove blood clots.
- For those at risk for venous foot disease, doctors recommend mild compression underwear to prevent varicose veins.
Product range
How to choose the right underwear? You should not solve this issue alone because there are several types of knitwear.
The answer to this question is given by the doctor supervising the patient's condition. The specialist will help you choose the right purchase, taking into account the patient's condition, the presence of chronic diseases and other contraindications.
Compression classes
According to the degree of compression (the degree of compression pressure), knitwear can be classified as follows:
- 1, or prophylactic class. Available in the pharmacy network without a prescription, the compression ratio is 18-23 mm. rt. Art. Such lingerie is recommended for expectant mothers and those at risk for varicose veins who want to keep their feet healthy. The products work well against evening bloating, eliminate leg pain, and prevent the spread of capillary network.
- Class 2, compression not exceeding 33 mm. rt. Art. This product is used to treat varicose veins in stage 2 and later of the disease in the presence of severe blood clots, pain, swelling, pronounced venous nodules.
- Class 3, compression level reaches 45 mm. rt. Art. Medical underwear in this class is suitable for patients with severe varicose and chronic venous insufficiency, severe lymphostasis, severely deformed veins, and severe painful swelling.
- Class 4, very rarely used, is recommended for patients with abnormal edema and lymphostasis ("elephantiasis"). The compression of this product can be from 50 mm. rt. Art. and higher.
Production types
Medical knitwear also varies by product type. So we recommend the following types of compression underwear to consumers:
- Stockings are the most popular type of medical knitwear. They are virtually indistinguishable in appearance from regular elastic tights and can also be used by pregnant women. Low-waist models are produced for this category of patients. Tights for pregnant women are recommended for absolutely all pregnant mothers, however, such products are slightly different from general products. The lumbar portion is made in the form of an elastic bandage designed to support the abdomen softly without uncomfortable squeezing. In addition, properly selected underwear for pregnant mothers should ensure good oxygen exchange.
- Stockings. One of the most practical types of compression products. Such lingerie looks good in combination with skirts and clothes, but does not tighten the stomach, which is especially important during pregnancy.
- Sports compression underwear - gaiters. They are made of a special material that ensures optimal airflow and the necessary compression in the calf region to avoid damage to blood vessels and tissues due to the increased load. Such products are the most durable and practical, as they are made without the most vulnerable and wearable part - the sock.
- Knitted hat. Suitable for those who suffer from vasodilation of the leg. In addition, there is a special compression underwear for men, which is also produced in the form of golf. The appearance of men’s underwear is indistinguishable from ordinary hosiery, not noticeable at all under casual pants, so it can be worn daily without fear of being embarrassing to others. Golfs are issued in several ways: standard; with silicone insert for best fit; fitted with velcro strap; without socks (foot).
Manufacturers
Many companies specialize in the production of compression underwear. It should be noted that such products are not chosen in the usual stores and markets, medical underwear is sold in specialty medical stores or on the websites of the manufacturers.
Pay close attention to the packaging before purchasing. The fact is that every compression product has a single density - a millimeter of mercury. There is no unit like DEN, be careful not to get a fake!
How to determine the right size
Compression knitwear has an appropriate therapeutic effect, provided the most accurate size is chosen, the products should not be small for the patient and should not be too large.
How to choose the right size underwear? Arm yourself with a tape measure, free time and patience.
- Patients wearing stockings should measure the following parameters: ankle circumference; calf circumference in the popliteal region; foot height from floor to knee.
- When choosing stockings, in addition to the perimeter of the ankle and leg, the circumference of the thigh should be measured in an area of 25-30 cm above the knee, depending on the height. The length of the product is equal to the distance between the floor and the hip joint.
- To set the desired sock size, you need to adjust the ankle circumference, popliteal region, thigh circumference, and pelvic volume. When choosing stockings, the length should be adjusted from the heel to the waist.
Armed with the required dimensions, do not rush to purchase the product. Ask your doctor for help, he will not only choose the size, but also give advice on the model, material and manufacturer required.
Terms of use
Properly wearing underwear for varicose veins is a whole science that can take some time to master.
- The morning before getting out of bed is best suited for picking up medical knitwear.
- When pulling up in the middle of the day, keep your legs raised for 15 minutes before the procedure.
- The toe should be turned slightly, placed on the toes, gradually pulling up and up.
- After application, all bumps must be smoothed out to achieve maximum comfort.
The basics of nursing
- Wash knitted clothes in warm water with soap and hand only.
- Strong twisting is not permitted.
- It is best to dry the product on a hard surface, a terry towel or other absorbent material. Drying on the battery is not welcome.
- If there are silicone inserts, they should be left dry as moisture can degrade their fastening properties. It is better to wipe them lightly with an alcoholic solution.
- Chemical solvents for anti-fouling cleaners are not recommended.
Conclusion
Remember - excessive savings often result in losses. Do not buy medicines from unverified companies and vendors, including markets.
By buying a fake, you are endangering your own health, risking an aggravation of the painful condition due to the valuable loss of time spent on treatment. Heal and be healthy!