Compression stockings

In earlier times they were medical Compression stockings also a therapeutic measure that made sense. Nowadays, however, the compression stockings are much more stylish and inconspicuous.

What are compression stockings?

The effect of a compression stocking is to reduce the cross-section of certain blood vessels due to the pressure of the only limited elastic tissue and thus to support the blood flow to the heart.

Not all Compression stockings are considered medical compression stockings. Therapeutically relevant compression stockings are prescribed by a specialist and must have very specific properties. The production of compression stockings of this type is based on corresponding standard sizes and lengths.

The effect of a compression stocking is to reduce the cross-section of certain blood vessels due to the pressure of the only limited elastic tissue and thus to support the blood flow to the heart. Since pressure or compression is applied to these blood vessels, the stockings are also called compression stockings.

The prescribed compression stockings are designed in different, standardized classes from I to a maximum of IV and vary in strength. The attending physician will indicate on the prescription which strength is required. In order to put on compression stockings correctly, certain prior knowledge is required.

Shapes, types & types

Both Compression stockings the ranges include both the calf and thigh-high compression stockings as well as the half-thigh stockings and the compression tights. The compression socks are also available as arm socks with or without a shoulder area and without or in combination with a handpiece.

The tip of the foot, the hand and the heel are also made stretchable. Before the compression stockings are woven, measurements are also taken of the heel, the ankles of the calves, the thighs and the instep. In addition, the compression stockings are prescribed in normal clothing sizes. Measuring the shackles is particularly important.

The textile fabrics of the compression stockings have a thickness of 0.5 to 1.4 mm when not stretched. Textile fibers made of polyamide, cotton, elastane, viscose and modern microfiber structures are used.

Elastic mixed fabrics are used to manufacture the textile compression stockings. These individual collections also soften visually visible deviations in the types of knitting and colors.

Structure, function & mode of operation

A medical one Compression stocking is produced in a special knitting process in which a yarn is mechanically knitted, so that a varying horizontal and vertical elasticity is created.

Typical knitting technologies are circular and flat knitting. Under these circumstances, some compression stockings have a seam, while others do not. Seamless compression stockings are common for classes I to III. A quarter of all compression stockings prescribed annually are classic custom-made products. Support stockings are not subject to any medical prescription.

Compression or support stockings prevent the blood from flowing back or "sinking" into the veins. By compressing the veins, insufficiently closing venous valves become tight again and the heart is relieved.

In addition, the reduced cross-section of the compressed veins increases the flow rate of the blood and the risk of thrombosis can be reduced. The compression stockings are an indispensable component of therapy for existing venous valve insufficiency (loss of function of the venous valves).

Medical & health benefits

Due to their well-designed structure, the Compression stockings in many patients it contributes to a real relief of the veins and the cardiovascular system.

Compression stockings also support the general well-being of those affected. That is why people who sit one behind the other for a long time and cannot increase the muscle activity of their legs by walking wear compression stockings even as a prophylactic. The compression stockings are therefore recommended if long flights or non-interruptible sedentary activities are planned.

In order to counteract an impending risk of thrombosis, which can be life-threatening under certain circumstances, compression stockings are ideal for patients who are considered a risk group due to previous illnesses. Against the same background, those in need of treatment are also given medical compression stockings who suffer from impairment of the valve function of the venous valves in the legs. The more pronounced the vein weakness, the higher the compression effect of the stockings or tights must be.

In times of the year when the blood circulation is particularly poor due to a weak venous valve due to the hot weather, compression stockings are essential companions. They also help prevent varicose veins or open ulcers on the leg.

Anyone who frequently suffers from swollen legs and ankles and painful discomfort in the legs as well as from the symptom of heavy legs should possibly wear the currently quite fashionable compression stockings.