Human limbs, arms and legs, are the most mobile parts of the body. They are constantly under pressure. Above all, our feet bear the load - the weight of the body. In addition, they are often in an upright position. In this position, and under a certain weight, blood flow increases, while pressure increases on the walls of blood vessels.
And if we assume that due to harmful environmental factors, malnutrition, being overweight, the elasticity of blood vessels decreases then obviously this leads to us getting stretch marks. Nodes are formed. And then the first signs of varicose veins appear - the so-called asterisks on the skin, heaviness and swelling of the legs. The next stage is already a specific disease - convex nodes, veins. All this is accompanied by feelings of pain.
Anti-varicose socks: types
To cure varicose veins, you need to completely change your lifestyle, adjust your diet, and pay full attention to the problem of stress. And of course, consider wearing knitted clothing that prevents varicose veins.
Products from it can be divided into the following categories:
- tights - a most comfortable look, but when dressing, it requires some effort;
- socks - recommended for pregnant women and people whose veins above the knee are not affected;
- golf - very comfortable to wear for men;
- leggings - are recommended for people with varicose veins affecting a small part of the leg;
- elastic band - is the most affordable, but the disadvantage is that it is inconvenient to use.
It is worth noting that the items in the medical orthopedic wardrobe should be worn after surgery. Attention! After surgery, you should not wear any kind of socks, they must be selected by a specialist.
What are varicose veins compression stockings and tights?
Specialized orthopedic compression products are made from compression socks. Their purpose is purely medical. This type of clothing supports blood vessels and prevents them from dilating, improving microcirculation. According to the conclusions of the attending physicians, today such stockings are quite an effective method of combating the disease, as well as preventing it.
A bonus to such compression tights or socks is the prevention of blood clots. Compression jerseys are made of a porous, viscous material in its construction that provides a breathable effect in hot weather. In such products, materials with properties to increase evaporation and maintain the water balance of the skin are used.
Compression socks: impact features
A feature of the operation of such socks is that they create an additional framework that supports the veins and protects them from dilating. In addition, compression of the tissues under the feet will protect our legs from fatigue, pain and muscle swelling, and prevent blood from stagnation.
The pressure in compression stockings is distributed from bottom to top as follows:
- above the ankle - maximum, that is, up to 100%;
- purple litmus - up to 70-75% reduction;
- at the hip - about 50%;
- in the groin - up to 20%;
- No pressure on hips and abdomen.
As a result, the percentage of blood that flows out of the veins of the legs increases.
Anti-varicose compression stockings have preventive and therapeutic effects. After deciding to buy anti-varicose socks or stockings, decide what you need them for: for prevention during pregnancy and after childbirth, for the treatment of varicose veins. Prophylaxis can be selected in pharmacies according to your size. They don't need a certificate.
The situation is completely different from medical treatment. It's hard to choose them. For them, a medical certificate must be obtained and the doctor must choose them for you according to your parameters and the stage of the disease. The phlebologist will assess the stage of the disease, the condition of the veins based on the ultrasound data. Sizes must be chosen very carefully, as tights have almost no stretch. Too large a size will not work, and a small size will cause inconvenience and discomfort.
If you have been diagnosed with the disease, but you have not had the opportunity to seek advice from your doctor about buying compression stockings, then buy a backup stocking first, then be guided only by your feeling and reaction. body response. one or another type or size.
According to international standards, there are 4 types of compression socks.
- The first level of compression is 18-22 mm Hg. Art. - with initial damage to superficial veins, spider veins appear. Such socks significantly reduce pain at the end of the working day and reduce swelling.
- The second level of compression is 23-32 mmHg. Art. - damage to the deep veins. In addition to painful swelling, at night, cramps also appear. Recommended for varicose vein thrombophlebitis of moderate severity. Doctors recommend wearing such tights at all times.
- The third level of compression is from 33 to 45 mm Hg. Art. It can only be purchased by prescription from a phlebologist. Doctors recommend wearing such tights to prevent deep vein thrombosis and other serious cases.
- Fourth layer of compression - exceeds 50 mm Hg. Art. - it is recommended to wear violations of lymphatic flow and to eliminate edema.
Attention!
- Don't confuse regular elastic tights with compression stockings. Density of curative and preventive measures is measured in millimeters of mercury, not in density.
- Medical tights have an expiration date. Not more than 6 months. Washing and daily wear renders them unusable.
- High quality compression stockings against varicose veins are not cheap.
- If you are confused about which brand of socks or stockings to buy, buy them marked RAL - they meet international quality standards.
How to wear compression stockings against varicose veins for women
There are rules for how to wear compression stockings that are different from the usual wardrobe staples.
- Wear it right after waking up, in bed.
- It is necessary to do this correctly and very carefully, without twisting or stretching the fabric too much.
- The top is carefully assembled into an accordion.
- Next, insert the palm of your hand inside the sock, carefully pull the sock over the foot, while not forgetting to locate the heel correctly.
- Very slowly straighten, pull the shin.
- Then, also carefully, gradually pull them over the hips, lifting the torso slightly.
Anti-varicose compression stockings can be worn both for the treatment and prevention of varicose veins. At the same time, before buying such underwear, do not forget to consult, since self-treatment can have adverse consequences for your health. Good luck!