Compression underwear for varicose veins: which is better to choose

Compression bras for varicose veins are an indispensable component in the complex and postoperative treatment of vascular pathologies of the lower extremities.

As you know, varicose veins is a dysfunction of the venous valves, the consequences of which are blood stasis, deformation of the vessel walls, swelling.

In order to prevent or stop the elongated destruction of the venous walls, a series of therapeutic measures are needed: administration of vasoconstrictors, vasoconstrictors, the use of gels and ointments for external use, as well asas mechanical support for diseased vessels and adjacent tissues from the outside.

compression stockings for varicose veins

For this purpose, special panties for varicose veins of the legs, or so-called compression stockings, are produced.

How to choose compression underwear for varicose veins, which one is best for a particular patient, in a diverse modern context? You will find answers to this and other questions in this document.

The nature of the therapeutic effect

How does compression underwear help with varicose veins, how does it help to get rid of painful symptoms?

The main property of knitwear for varicose veins is the graduated distribution of compression (that is, manifold, transitional) along the entire length of the leg, depending on the area.

So, near the heel, at the bottom of the ankle, the degree of compression reaches the maximum value - 100%.

Going higher, to the knee skin area, the pressure begins to decrease gradually, reaching 70% of the index in the knee area.

And finally, at the bottom of the thigh, in the hip area, the degree of compression is minimal, approximately 40%.

Thanks to the graduated compression, the blood vessels of the legs are provided with the necessary support, the venous blood flow is normalized, there is continuity, uniformity, which has a positive effect on the condition of the vessel walls. and patient health in general. .

What is the result?

When wearing compression stockings, a complex therapeutic effect occurs, which is demonstrated by the following positive factors:

  • Thanks to the mechanical support, the vessels are protected from pathological stretching, the venous lumen is reduced to normal values.
  • Blood stagnation occurs because the deformation of the vein wall is eliminated, its structure becomes less viscous, and the risk of thrombus formation is reduced.
  • As a result of the compression of the vessels, the venous valves acquire their old 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, so tissue nutrition and oxygen exchange return to normal, and at the same time, lymphedema of the legs is eliminated.

User manual

What is the purpose of medical underwear? The answer is obvious - in the treatment of vascular dysfunction of the lower extremities.

  1. First of all, compression knitwear is used for varicose veins, at all stages of its development.
  2. With phlebitis, inflammation around the kidneys, such panties help prevent the patient's condition from worsening.
  3. For pregnant women, wearing good medical-grade knitwear ensures the health of the veins in the legs, which are at risk from increased stress and hormonal changes.
  4. Compression products are also used by athletes, because the lower extremities are under intense stress during exercise.
  5. In addition, therapeutic underwear is recommended to be used in the postoperative period after varicoseectomy, sclerotherapy, laser coagulation of veins, surgery to remove blood clots.
  6. For people at risk for varicose veins, doctors recommend wearing low-compression underwear as a precaution against varicose veins.

Product variety

How to choose the right underwear for you? You should not deal with this on your own, because there are several types of knitwear.

The answer to this question will be provided by the physician supervising the patient's condition. Experts will help you choose the right purchase, taking into account the patient's condition, the presence of chronic diseases and other contraindications.

Compression layers

According to the degree of compression (degree of compression), knitwear can be classified as follows:

  • 1, or fallback class. It can be purchased at the pharmacy network without a prescription, the compression ratio is 18-23 mm. rt. Art. Such underwear is recommended for expectant mothers and people at risk of varicose veins, who want to keep their legs healthy. The product effectively fights puffiness, eliminates pain in the calves and prevents the spread of the capillary network.
  • Type 2, compression up to 33 mm. rt. Art. This product is used in the treatment of varicose veins in stage 2 and subsequent stages of the disease, with severe blood stasis, pain, swelling, and swollen veins.
  • Type 3, the compression level reaches 45 mm. rt. Art. Underwear of this group is suitable for patients with severe varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, with severe lymphedema, severely deformed veins, and severe swelling and pain.
  • Type 4, used very rarely, is recommended for patients with pathological edema and lymphadenopathy ("elephant foot edema"). The compression of this product can be from 50 mm. rt. Art. and higher.

Types of production

Medical knitwear also varies by product type. Therefore, the following types of compression underwear are offered to attract the attention of consumers:

  1. Tights are the most common type of medical knitwear. Visually, they are practically indistinguishable from ordinary elastic tights; They can also be used by pregnant women. For this type of patient, models with a low waist are produced. Panties for pregnant women are recommended for use by all expectant mothers, however, such products are somewhat different from the usual ones. The waist is made of a band to increase elasticity, the purpose is to soft support for the abdomen, not uncomfortable. In addition, properly selected underwear for expectant mothers should provide a good oxygen exchange.
  2. Sock. One of the most practical types of compression products. Such lingerie looks good in combination with skirts and dresses, and at the same time it does not constrict the abdomen, which is especially important during pregnancy.
  3. Sports compression underwear - gait. They are made with special materials that provide optimal air circulation and the required compression in the calf area, to avoid damage to blood vessels and tissues from increased loads. Such products are the most durable and practical, because they are made without the most vulnerable and easy to wear part - the sock.
  4. Knee socks. Suitable for people with vasodilatation in the legs. In addition, there is also a special type of compression underwear for men, also produced in golf form. Men's underwear is visually indistinguishable from regular knitwear, it is completely unnoticeable under regular trousers, so it can be used every day without fear of confusing people. Golf is released several types: regular; with silicone inserts for the best fit; equipped with Velcro belt; without socks (walking set).
compression stockings for varicose veins

Producer of

There are many companies that specialize in the production of compression underwear. It should be noted that such products are not selected in the general store and in the market; Medical underwear is sold in specialty medical stores or on the manufacturer's website.

Before buying, you should pay close attention to the packaging. The fact is that all compression products have a single density unit - millimeters of mercury. There is no such unit as DEN, beware of buying a fake!

How to determine the right size

Compression knit clothing will have a suitable therapeutic effect, provided that the most accurate size is selected, the product is not small for the patient and is not too large.

How to choose the right size underwear? Equip yourself with a measuring tape, free time, and patience.

  1. When taking socks, patients need to measure the following parameters: ankle circumference; calf circumference in the popliteal region; foot height from floor to knee.
  2. When choosing socks, in addition to the circumference of the ankle and shin, you should also measure the circumference of the thigh 25-30 cm above the knee, depending on your height. The length of the product will be equal to the distance from the floor to the hip joint.
  3. To set the desired size of tights, you need to set the circumference of the ankle, the skin of the buttocks, the circumference of the thigh, as well as the volume of the pelvis. The length when choosing tights is calculated 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 advise on the style, material and manufacturer needed.

terms of use

Wearing the right underwear for varicose veins is a science, which can take a while to master.

  • The morning before getting out of bed is the best time to put on medical knitwear.
  • When worn mid-day, the foot should be kept in an elevated position for 15 minutes prior to the procedure.
  • Need to slightly rotate the toe, bring it up to the toe to pull it up.
  • After wearing, you should rub the protrusions and dents evenly, achieving maximum comfort.

Basic knowledge of care

  1. Wash knitwear only in warm water, with hand soap.
  2. Strong twisting is not allowed.
  3. It is best to dry the product by placing it on a hard surface, on a cotton towel or other absorbent material. Drying the battery is not welcome.
  4. If silicone inserts are present, they should be allowed to dry, as moisture may degrade their fixing properties. It is better to gently wipe them with an alcohol solution.
  5. The use of chemical solvents is not recommended to clean the product from contamination.

Conclusion

Remember - excessive savings often bring losses. Do not buy medicinal products from unverified companies and sellers, including on the market.

If you buy a fake, you put your health at risk, and risk exacerbating a painful condition by losing precious time in treatment. Be healthy and healthy!