Compression underwear for varicose veins is an indispensable component of the complex treatment and postoperative therapy of vascular pathologies of the lower extremities.
As you know, varicose veins are a dysfunction of the venous valves, the consequences of which are blood stasis, vascular deformity and swelling.
To prevent or stop the destructive process of stretching the venous walls, a set of therapeutic measures is necessary: use of venotonic agents, vasoconstrictors, use of gels and ointments for external use, as well as mechanical support for diseased vessels and adjacent tissues from the outside.
For this, special underwear for varicose veins on the legs or compression stockings are produced.
How to choose compression underwear for varicose veins, which one is best for a given patient given the modern diversity? You will find the answer to this and other questions in this material.
The essence of the therapeutic effect
How does compression underwear work with varicose veins, how does it help eliminate painful symptoms?
The main specificity of meshes for varicose veins is a graduated (i. e. varied, transient) distribution of compression compression along the entire length of the leg, depending on the area.
Thus, near the heel, at the base of the ankle, the degree of compression reaches its maximum value - 100%.
Ascending higher, up to the popliteal region, the compression begins to gradually decrease, reaching 70% of the index in the knee region.
And finally, at the base of the thigh, in the hip region, the level of compression is minimal, equal to approximately 40%.
Thanks to the graduated compression, the vessels of the legs receive the necessary support, the venous blood flow is normalized, it acquires continuity, uniformity, which has a positive effect on the condition of the vascular walls and on the general well-being of the patient .
What happens as a result
When wearing compression stockings, a complex therapeutic effect occurs, expressed by the following positive factors:
- Thanks to the mechanical support, the vessels are protected from pathological stretching and the venous lumen is reduced to normal values.
- Blood stagnation that occurred due to deformation of the venous walls is eliminated, its structure becomes less viscous, and the risk of thrombosis is reduced.
- As a result of the compressive compression of the vessels, the venous valves acquire 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, as a result of which tissue nutrition and oxygen exchange 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 disorders of the lower extremities.
- Firstly, compression garments are used for varicose veins, at all stages of their development.
- With phlebitis, periphlebitis, such underwear helps to prevent the deterioration of the patient's condition.
- For pregnant women, wearing good medical knits is guaranteed to maintain leg vein health, which is at risk due to increased stress and hormonal changes.
- Compression products are also used for athletes because the lower limbs are under heavy stress during exercise.
- In addition, therapeutic underwear is recommended for postoperative use after phlebectomy, sclerotherapy, laser coagulation of venous vessels, operations to remove blood clots.
- For people who are at risk of developing venous leg disease, doctors recommend low-compression underwear as a preventive measure against varicose veins.
product variety
How to choose the right underwear for you? You should not solve this problem alone, as there are several varieties of meshes.
The answer to this question will be provided by the physician 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 (degree of compression pressure), the meshes can be classified as follows:
- 1, or prophylactic class. It can be purchased in the pharmacy chain without a prescription, the compression ratio is from 18 to 23 mm. art. Art. This underwear is recommended for pregnant women and people at risk of varicose veins who want to keep their legs healthy. The products help well against night swelling, eliminate calf pain and prevent the spread of the capillary network.
- Class 2, compression is up to 33 mm. art. Art. This product is used in the treatment of varicose veins in 2 and subsequent stages of the disease, in the presence of severe blood stasis, pain, swelling, pronounced venous nodules.
- Class 3, the compression level reaches 45 mm. art. Art. Medical underwear of this class is suitable for patients with severe varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency, with severe lymphostasis, severely deformed veins and severe painful swelling.
- Class 4, used very rarely, recommended for patients with pathological edema and lymphostasis ("elephantiasis"). The compression of this product can be 50 mm. art. Art. It's higher.
types of production
Medical meshes also differ by product type. Thus, the following types of compression underwear are offered to consumers' attention:
- Socks are the most popular type of medical mesh. In appearance, they are practically indistinguishable from ordinary elastic stockings; can also be used by pregnant women. For this category of patients, models with a low waist are produced. Stockings for pregnant women are recommended to be worn by absolutely all pregnant women, however, these products are a little different from the general ones. The lumbar part is made in the form of a bandage of greater elasticity, whose purpose is a soft support for the belly, without squeezing uncomfortable. In addition, properly selected underwear for pregnant women should provide good oxygen exchange.
- Socks. One of the most practical types of compression products. This underwear looks great when paired with skirts and dresses, while not tightening your stomach, which is especially important during pregnancy.
- Sports compression underwear - gaiters. They are made of a special material that provides optimal air circulation and the necessary compression in the calf region in order to prevent damage to blood vessels and tissues due to increased loads. These products are the most durable and practical because they are produced without the most vulnerable and wearable part - the sock.
- Knee socks. Indicated 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 shape of a golf course. The appearance of men's underwear is indistinguishable from ordinary sock products, it is absolutely not noticeable under casual pants, so it can be worn daily without fear of looking strange in the eyes of others. Golfs are issued several types: usual; with silicone insert for better fit; equipped with velcro belt; without socks (gaiters).
Manufacturers
There are many companies that specialize in producing compression underwear. It should be noted that such products are not picked up in a regular store and market; Medical underwear is sold in special medical stores or on manufacturers' websites.
Before buying, you should pay close attention to the packaging. The fact is that all compression products have a single unit of density - millimeters of mercury. There is no such unit as DEN, beware of purchasing a fake!
How to determine the right size
Compression meshes will have the proper therapeutic effect as long as the most accurate size is selected, the products should not be too small for the patient and they should not be too big.
How to choose the right size panties? Arm yourself with a tape measure, free time and patience.
- Patients who pick up the socks should measure the following parameters: ankle circumference; calf circumference in the popliteal region; leg height from floor to knee.
- When choosing socks, in addition to ankle and leg circumference, you should also measure thigh circumference in the area 25-30 cm above the knee, depending on height. The length of the product will be equal to the distance from the floor to the hip joint.
- To set your desired pantyhose size, you need to set your ankle circumference, popliteal region, thigh circumference, and pelvis volume. The length when choosing socks is defined from the base of the heel to the waist.
Armed with the necessary measures, do not rush to buy the product yourself. Ask your doctor for help, he will not only select the size you need but will also give you advice on the model, material and manufacturer you need.
Terms of use
Wearing underwear correctly with varicose veins is a whole science, which can take some time to master.
- The early hours of the morning before getting out of bed are the best time to put on your medical mesh.
- When placing 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 slightly rotate the toe part, put it on the toes, gradually pulling higher and higher.
- After putting on, you should smooth out any bumps, get maximum comfort.
Basics of care
- Wash knits in warm, soapy water by hand only.
- Strong twisting is not allowed.
- It is best to dry the product by placing it on a hard surface, a terry towel or other absorbent material. Battery drying is not welcome.
- If there are silicone inserts, they must be left dry, moisture can impair their fastening properties. It's best to clean them lightly with an alcohol solution.
- Chemical solvents for cleaning contaminated products are not recommended.
Conclusion
Remember - excessive savings often bring losses. Do not buy drugs from unverified companies and sellers, including in markets.
By purchasing a fake, you put your own health at risk, risking aggravating the painful condition due to the loss of precious time for the treatment. Stay well and be healthy!