How to choose compression stockings and find the right size?

Varicose (dilated veins) of the lower extremities becomes a serious problem for women with age. It stops the valves of the inner veins to close. A major role in the fight against diseases of the venous system is prevention, including the use of compression stockings. Special underwear helps to achieve a therapeutic effect and positive results with regular use.

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1. The best manufacturers of compression stockings, which company to choose?
2. The principle and characteristics of compression stockings
3. Types of compression stockings
4. Parameters for choosing compression stockings
5. How to choose compression stockings?
6. How much do compression stockings cost?

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. In this segment there are not many brands that have achieved positive product reviews.

Medi

German quality of Medi Knitwear confirmed by Russian and foreign studies. Stockings meet the requirements of RAL-GZ 387, which is one of the most stringent. Medics celebrate 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 technology and solutions. It has been supplying athletes at the Olympics since ancient times. Today her bandages, knee pads and compression stockings can be found at low prices in our stores and pharmacies.

Sigvaris

Sigvaris from Switzerland is a German competitor. Its compression stockings get a lot of positive feedback from medical professionals. Products are certified according to RAL-GZ 387. Relatively recently the company began to develop the Russian market.

Orto

Orto products are manufactured according to innovations in materials. A Spanish brand is exploring European markets, offering low prices and a wide variety of products.

Function and features of compression stockings

Varicosis is a disease that occurs when the inner wall of the veins stops constricting. It is caused by a sedentary lifestyle, high-heeled shoes, pregnancy and heredity. Girls as prevention and effective therapy are offered to wear compression stockings. They are used even in advanced stages.

The task of such hosiery is to improve blood circulation. Good blood circulation in the legs is the ultimate means of vein control.

The useful effect of stockings is manifested in the following:

1. it improves blood circulation;
2. It helps the veins to function properly;
3. Reduces swelling and the risk of thrombosis;
4. The overall fatigue of the legs at the end of the day is reduced.

Stockings stimulate circulation to improve tissue oxygenation. This helps to achieve positive moments.

Special underwear is manufactured to apply pressure in the right areas. It is distributed from top to bottom – from the thighs to the ankles. Maximum pressure at the top and minimum pressure at the bottom. This helps to artificially restore the natural situation for the muscles and veins while walking. People with sedentary jobs and sedentary lifestyles need them in the first place.

Compression stockings differ in features:

1. The use of light and elastic materials;
2. Seamless structure to provide pressure in the right places;
3. breathability.

These stockings are hypoallergenic and therefore used without problems by women, who feel the constant fatigue in their legs and have spider veins. Special branded hosiery is superior to ordinary stockings and simple elastic bandages.

Types of compression stockings

Special compression knitwear is used in both early and advanced stages of varicose veins. There is a choice of models with different sizes and degrees of compression. Depending on this, there are several varieties of underwear:

prophylactic;

1. 1st compression class;
2. 2nd and 3rd compression classes;
3. 4th compression class (therapeutic).

They are used in situations depending on the individual characteristics of the body and the stage of varicose veins.

Prophylactic stockings

The zero compression class is prophylactic and is to be worn without consulting the doctor. They are used by girls with sedentary jobs, who by the end of the day are uncomfortable with a slight swelling. They are also recommended to be worn during pregnancy. Compression level up to 18 mm of mercury.

Such stockings help relieve tension in the legs, relieve varicose veins, and promote recovery after exertion.

Advantages

• universality of use;
• Stimulate blood circulation to prevent varicose veins and thrombosis
• attractive appearance;

Disadvantages

• careful attitude and washing is required;
• not suitable for serious problems.

Class 1 compression stockings

Suitable for stockings in cases of non persistent oedema and the first signs of varicose veins. They provide versatile pressure on the legs, preventing circulatory disorders. These products are recommended for pregnant women and people with a genetic predisposition to varicose veins when sitting.

These stockings can be recommended to girls who are concerned about the first signs of vein disease.

Advantages

• Improvement of blood circulation, increased muscle tone;
• Slow down the development of leg disease;
• Reduced swelling in the lower extremities;

Disadvantages

• Cannot be used 24 hours a day, especially at night;
• There are contraindications to use (dermatitis, open wounds).

Compression class 2 and 3 stockings

This type of stockings refers to stockings with a pronounced therapeutic effect. They should be worn only on the doctor’s recommendation, if severe swelling or noticeable pain is observed. In this case, the varicosis has already manifested itself and there are obvious veins on the legs. Compression range from 23 to 44 mm. Rt. st.

Such underwear is used for therapy of progressive vein disease, as well as related problems. Special fabrics and innovative technology are used for these purposes.

Advantages

• Improve blood flow from the periphery to the center;
• reduction of the risk of severe conditions (thrombosis);
• Facilitate walking and decrease the heaviness of the legs;
• Prevention of venous dilation;

Disadvantages

• discomfort during use;
• Extensive contraindications to use (dermatological problems, atherosclerosis, endarteritis and other diseases).

Stockings of compression class 4

Therapeutic stockings prescribed by your doctor. They are only worn in cases of serious vein problems or after surgical intervention. Stockings with high compression (over 50 mm Hg) are also prescribed for bed-ridden patients with lymphatic drainage problems or with severe edema.

These stockings are not readily available, because they are only needed at late stages of varicose veins or during rehabilitation after surgery.

Advantages

• solving problems with swelling and dilated veins;
• restore blood circulation and oxygenation of tissues;
• relief of leg pain and heaviness;

Disadvantages

• should only be used following a doctor’s recommendation;
• Extensive restrictions on use.

Compression stocking selection parameters

Types of stockings have personal features. When choosing, follow the recommendations of medical professionals and pay attention to the specific characteristics of a particular product.

The parameters include:

1. level of compression – the strength of the pressure exerted;
2. Materials of construction – affect durability and ease of use;
3. brand name.

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

An important factor is the material of manufacture. Such products are made by 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 some other parameters.

According to the appearance of stockings can be divided:

1. classic;
2. models with silicone elastic;
3. models with a sticky belt.

It is important to choose models that will be below the tummy line. In this case provides the correct distribution of pressure and preserved aesthetic appeal.

How to choose compression stockings?

A trusted brand and place of purchase is often a guarantee of quality, otherwise it is easy to get a counterfeit.

To choose the right size, several aspects are taken into account:

1. leg length;
2. Thigh circumference just below the groin;
3. The girths of the wide and narrow area of the lower leg.

For a leg length of 65-68 cm the shin circumference is 42-45 cm and the narrowest part of the shin is 18-21 cm. If the leg length of 73-75 cm, then the circumference of the thigh requires about 52-55 cm.

When choosing, it is necessary to clearly understand for what purposes compression stockings are required. Preventive stockings are suitable for those who are just worried about the health of their feet. If spider veins, swelling and dilated veins have already begun to appear on the legs, then you need compression stockings of level 1 or 2. In other cases, consult a doctor.

How much do compression stockings cost?

1. The cost of simple preventive stockings ranges from 800 to 1500 rubles.
2. The price of compression stockings of class 1,2,3 ranges from 1500 to 6000 rubles.
3. Therapeutic stockings class 4 cost over 4000-5000 rubles.

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