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Among the methods of treating chronic venous insufficiency and deep vein thrombosis, there are, among others, tourniquets, bandages, stockings and compression stockings. Wearing them improves the efficiency of the veins in the limbs and thus brings relief, because external pressure on the limb causes the veins located closer to the top of the skin to collapse and the blood flowing in them moves into the deep vessels in the body, i.e. into the deep veins. As a result, the blood from varicose veins withdraws and flows more efficiently in the deeper layers.
Prophylactic compression stockings – application
Compression stockings are used primarily in the following situations:
- feeling of heavy and tired legs,
- work performed constantly in one position,
- long journeys without the possibility of moving (car, plane),
- swelling of the legs and feet in pregnancy and in the postpartum period,
- problems with varicose veins of the lower extremities,
- practicing sports such as running or cycling.
Therapeutic use of compression stockings in venous insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is primarily blood stagnation in the extremities, which makes it difficult for blood to flow up the body. Thanks to compression therapy, that is, with the help of compression socks, the stagnation is cleared, supports the blood flow in the limbs so that it can flow naturally from the lower limbs towards the torso, thanks to which there are no swelling and swelling of the limbs.
W compression therapy it is very important that the degree of tension, ie pressure, was properly selected for the limb.
The first stage of venous insufficiency is manifested by slight edema and is used pressure < 25mmHg. Przy stopniu drugim, czyli żylakach, które są po leczeniu chirurgicznym, stosuje się pressure 25-35 mmHg. With the third degree, i.e. venous thrombosis and ulceration, it is used pressure 35-45 mmHg, and in the case of severe lymphoedema, i.e. the fourth degree, is used pressure greater than 45 mmHg.
Compression stockings reduce deep vein thrombosis, in combination with pharmacological prophylaxis, drug therapy, in which low molecular weight heparins are most often used. A great advantage of such compression stockings it is also possible to use them in pregnant women.
Possible adverse effects of compression stockings
Must not be used compression stockings in case of obstructive arterial insufficiency of the lower limbs with an ankle-brachial index ABI between 0,5 and 0,8 (the correct index is 0,9-1,15), i.e. leg ischemia. Pressure on the artery will cause the opposite effect, i.e. we will lead to rapid ischemia of the so-called obliterating atherosclerosis. We also do not use them in the case of congestive heart failure, lymphoedema of the second degree or higher, as well as with lipoedema of the second degree and higher. It is also not allowed to use podkolanówek in cases of advanced diabetic neuropathy.
Compression stockings – putting them on
It is very important to podkolanówki put on your feet in the morning, preferably before getting out of bed. If they are put on later, the limb will become swollen and they will not fulfill their function and may even cause unpleasant discomfort.
The most common mistake made is stretching compression stockings too high above the knee joint. The wrinkles of the fabric created during insertion should be smoothed. To prevent the skin from drying out excessively, you can wear it before wearing it podkolanówek smear your feet with moisturizing cream or lotion.
There are also special racks for people who have difficulty putting on podkolanówek.
Knee Highs should be removed at night. In exceptional circumstances, e.g. immediately after surgery for varicose veins or in the event of a thrombosis, your doctor may advise you not to remove it podkolanówek for night.
Knee Highs they must be replaced with new ones after approx. 3-6 months. The limb should then be re-measured.
Compression stockings – types and availability
We have a wide selection on the market podkolanówek, stockings and compression tights, with the indicated thickness and compression class. Everyone will find a variant that suits their needs in many fashionable designs and colors, also for men.
But medical knee socks should be selected at a pharmacy or medical store. If possible, the patient should go there in person, preferably in the morning when the limb swelling is less, for an accurate measurement of the limb circumference by qualified personnel.
However, a wide selection compression stockings preventive measures can be found, for example, in online stores. Famous brands are: Pani Teresa, Aries, Veera.
Most people tolerate it better podkolanówki than longer products, i.e. stockings to the middle of the thigh or to the entire limb. It is better to use stockings when large varicose veins occur at the knee or thigh level (i.e. above the upper edge of the knee sock) or there is a large swelling of the limb that also covers the thigh.
They are available on the market podkolanówki with and without fingers. Knee Highs without fingers are recommended primarily for people with excessive sweating or valgus toes.