Compression underwear for varicose veins is an unavoidable component of complex treatment and postoperative therapy of vascular pathologies of the lower extremities.
As you know, varicose veins are a dysfunction of the venous valves, which results in blood stasis, vascular deformity and swelling.
To prevent or stop the destructive process of stretching the venous walls, a number of therapeutic measures are needed: taking venotonics, vasoconstrictors, use of gels and ointments for external use, as well as mechanical support of diseased blood vessels and adjacent tissues from the outside.
For this purpose, special underwear is produced for varicose veins on the legs or compression stockings.
How to choose compression underwear for varicose veins, which is best for a particular patient, given the modern variety? You will find the answer to this and other questions in this material.
The essence of the therapeutic effect
How does compression underwear work for varicose veins, how does it help eliminate painful symptoms?
The main specificity of knitwear for varicose veins is the gradual (ie diverse, transitional) distribution of compression along the entire length of the leg, depending on the area.
So, near the heel, at the very bottom of the ankle, the degree of compression reaches its maximum value - 100%.
As it rises higher, into the popliteal region, compression begins to gradually subside, reaching 70% of the index in the knee region.
Finally, at the base of the thigh, in the hip area, the compression level is minimal, equal to approximately 40%.
Thanks to the gradual compression, the vessels in the legs receive the necessary support, venous blood flow is normalized, gains continuity, uniformity, which positively affects the condition of the vascular walls and the general condition of the patient. .
What happens as a result
When wearing compression stockings there is a complex therapeutic effect, expressed by the following positive factors:
- Thanks to mechanical support, the vessels are protected from pathological stretching, and the venous lumen is reduced to normal values.
- The stagnation of the blood caused by the deformation of the venous walls is eliminated, its structure becomes less viscous, and the risk of thrombosis is reduced.
- As a result of compressive compression of the veins, the venous valves regain their former strength and healthy functions, ensuring the continuity of blood circulation from the heart to the lower extremities and vice versa.
- Capillary blood flow is normalized, causing tissue nutrition and oxygen exchange to return to normal, and lymphostasis in the legs is eliminated.
Indications for use
What is the purpose of medical underwear? The answer is obvious - in the treatment of vascular dysfunctions of the lower extremities.
- First of all, compression stockings are used for varicose veins, at all stages of its development.
- In phlebitis, periphlebitis, such underwear helps to prevent the deterioration of the patient's condition.
- For pregnant women, wearing good medical jerseys is a guarantee of preserving the health of the veins on the legs, which are endangered due to increased stress and hormonal changes.
- Compression products are also used for athletes, because the lower limbs experience strong stress during exercise.
- In addition, therapeutic underwear is recommended for use in the postoperative period after phlebectomy, sclerotherapy, laser coagulation of venous vessels, surgery to remove blood clots.
- For people who are at risk of developing venous leg disease, doctors recommend underwear with a low degree of compression as a preventive measure against varicose veins.
Product variety
How to choose the right underwear for yourself? You should not solve this problem yourself, because there are several variants of knitwear.
The answer to this question will be given by the doctor who monitors 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 (degree of compression), knitwear can be classified as follows:
- 1, ie prophylactic class. It can be bought in a pharmacy network without a prescription, the compression ratio is 18-23 mm. rt. Art. Such underwear is recommended for future mothers and people at risk of varicose veins who want their legs to be healthy. The products help well against evening bloating, relieve pain in the leaves of the legs and prevent the spread of the capillary network.
- Class 2, compression up to 33 mm. rt. Art. This product is used in the treatment of varicose veins in the 2nd and subsequent stages of the disease, in the presence of severe blood stasis, pain, swelling, and pronounced venous nodules.
- Class 3, compression level reaches 45 mm. rt. Art. Medical underwear of this class is suitable for patients with severe varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, with pronounced lymphostasis, severely deformed veins and severe painful swelling.
- Class 4, which is used very rarely, is recommended for patients with pathological edema and lymphostasis ("elephantiasis"). The compression of this product can be from 50 mm Hg and more.
Types of production
Medical knitwear also varies by product type. Thus, the following types of compression underwear are offered to the attention of consumers:
- Leggings are the most popular type of medical knitwear. They practically do not differ from ordinary elastic leggings, they can also be used by pregnant women. Low waist models are produced for this category of patients. Pantyhose for pregnant women is recommended to absolutely all expectant mothers, however, such products are somewhat different from general ones. The lumbar part is made in the form of a bandage of increased elasticity, the purpose of which is soft support for the abdomen, without uncomfortable squeezing. In addition, properly selected underwear for expectant mothers should ensure good oxygen exchange.
- Socks. One of the most practical types of compression products. Such underwear looks good in combination with skirts and dresses, and at the same time does not tighten the stomach, which is especially important during pregnancy.
- Sports compression underwear - leggings. They are made of a special material that provides optimal air circulation and the necessary compression in the area of the lower leg, in order to avoid damage to blood vessels and tissues due to increased load. Such products are the most durable and practical, because they are produced without the most vulnerable and wearable part - socks.
- Knee socks. Suitable for those who suffer from vasodilation in the lower leg. In addition, there is a special compression underwear for men, which is also produced in the form of golf. Men's underwear does not differ in appearance from ordinary socks, it is absolutely not noticeable under casual pants, so it can be used every day without fear of looking uncomfortable in the eyes of others. Golfs are issued in several types: ordinary; with silicone insert for best fit; fitted with velcro belt; without socks (leggings).
Manufacturers
There are many companies specializing in the production of compression underwear. It should be noted that such products are not selected in ordinary stores and on the market, but medical underwear is sold in special medical stores or on the manufacturer's website.
Before buying, pay special attention to the packaging. The fact is that all compression products have one unit of density - millimeters of mercury. There is no unit like DEN, be careful not to get a fake!
How to determine the right size
Compression stockings will have an appropriate therapeutic effect, provided that the most precise size is selected, the products must not be small for the patient and must not be too large.
How to choose the right size of underwear? Arm yourself with a measuring tape, free time and patience.
- Patients taking socks should measure the following parameters: ankle circumference; leaf circumference in the popliteal region; leg height from floor to knee.
- When choosing socks, in addition to the circumference of the ankle and lower leg, it is necessary to measure the circumference of the thigh in the area of 25-30 cm above the knee, depending on the height. The length of the product will be equal to the distance from the floor to the hip joint.
- To adjust the desired size of the tights, you need to adjust the circumference of the ankle, the popliteal region, the circumference of the thighs, as well as the volume of the pelvis. The length when choosing leggings is set from the base of the heel to the waist.
Armed with the necessary measurements, do not rush to buy the product yourself. Ask your doctor for help, he will not only choose the size you need, but will also give you advice on the required model, material and manufacturer.
Terms of use
Proper wearing of underwear with varicose veins is a whole science, which may take some time to master.
- The morning hours before getting up is the best time to put on medical knitwear.
- When dressing in the middle of the day, it is necessary to keep the legs in an elevated position for 15 minutes before the procedure.
- It is necessary to gently turn a part of the fingers, put it on the fingers, gradually pulling more and more.
- After dressing, you should smooth out any bumps, achieve maximum comfort.
Basics of care
- Wash the knitwear in warm water, laundry soap, only by hand.
- Strong twisting is not allowed.
- It is best to dry the product by placing it on a hard surface, on a terry towel or other absorbent material. Battery drying is not welcome.
- If there are silicone inserts, they should be left dry, moisture can damage their fastening properties. It is better to wipe them lightly with an alcohol solution.
- Chemical solvents for cleaning products from contamination are not recommended.
Conclusion
Remember - excessive savings often bring losses. Do not buy medicines from unverified companies and sellers, including in the markets.
By buying counterfeits, you endanger your own health, risking a worsening of the painful condition due to the loss of valuable time for treatment. Get well and be healthy!