Compression bras for varicose veins: which is the better option

Varicose compression bras are an integral part of the complex and postoperative care of lower extremity vascular lesions.

As you know, varicose veins are venous valve dysfunction, the consequences of which are blood stasis, vascular malformations and swelling.

To prevent or stop the destructive process of stretching the vein wall, a series of therapeutic measures are required: administration of vasoconstrictors, vasoconstrictors, use of topical gels and ointments, and mechanical support of diseased vessels and adjacent tissues. external.

Varicose compression stockings

For this purpose, special underwear or compression stockings for varicose veins in the legs are produced.

Given the variety of modern times, how to choose a compression bra for varicose veins and which one is best for a particular patient? You will find answers to this and other questions in this material.

The nature of the therapeutic effect

How do compression bras treat varicose veins and how does it help relieve painful symptoms?

The main feature of knitwear for varicose veins is a graded (i. e. varying, transitional) distribution of compressive pressure along the entire length of the leg, depending on the region.

Therefore, near the heel, at the very bottom of the ankle, the compression is at its maximum - 100%.

Elevated, to the popliteal region, the compression begins to gradually subside, reaching 70% of the knee index.

Finally, at the base of the thighs, the buttocks area, the compression is minimal, around 40%.

Thanks to the progressive compression, the blood vessels of the legs receive the necessary support, the venous blood flow is normalized, continuity, uniformity is obtained, which positively affects the condition of the vessel walls and the overall health of the patient.

what happens as a result

When wearing compression stockings, there is a complex therapeutic effect manifested by the following positive factors:

  • Due to mechanical support, the vessel is protected from pathological stretching and the venous lumen is reduced to normal.
  • Blood stagnation due to deformation of the vein wall is eliminated, its structure becomes less viscous and the risk of thrombosis is reduced.
  • As the blood vessels are compressed, the venous valves regain their original strength and healthy function, 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 lymphatic deposits in the legs are eliminated.

Indications for use

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

  1. First, compressed knitwear has been used to treat varicose veins at all stages of its development.
  2. For phlebitis, phlebitis, this underwear helps prevent the patient from getting worse.
  3. For pregnant women, well-dressed medical knitwear is a guarantee of healthy leg veins, which are at risk due to increased stress and hormonal changes.
  4. Compression products are also used by athletes because the lower body is under a lot of pressure during exercise.
  5. In addition, therapeutic underwear is recommended for postoperative use after phlebectomy, sclerotherapy, laser coagulation of venous vessels, and thrombectomy.
  6. For people who are at risk of developing venous disease in the legs, doctors recommend the use of undergarments that compress slightly as a preventative measure for varicose veins.

Product Category

How to choose the underwear that suits you? You shouldn't fix this yourself, as there are several types of knitwear.

The answer to this question will be provided by the doctor 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 level

According to the degree of compression (degree of compression pressure), knitwear can be divided into the following categories:

  • 1, or prevention. Available on the pharmacy network without a prescription, with a compression ratio of 18-23 mm. room temperature. Art. This bra is recommended for pregnant women and those who are at risk for varicose veins but wish to keep their legs healthy. These products help prevent nighttime puffiness, eliminate calf soreness, and prevent the spread of the capillary network.
  • Class 2, compression up to 33mm. room temperature. Art. This product is used to treat varicose veins in stage 2 and subsequent stages of the disease, with severe blood stasis, pain, swelling, prominent venous lymph nodes.
  • Level 3, compression rating up to 45mm. room temperature. Art. This type of medical underwear is suitable for patients with severe varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, severe lymphedema, severe vein deformation, and severe swelling and pain.
  • Grade 4, rarely used, recommended for patients with pathological edema and lymphedema ("elephantia"). The compression of this product can be from 50 mm. room temperature. Art. and higher.

production type

Medical knitwear also varies by product type. Therefore, the following types of compression underwear have caught the attention of consumers:

  1. Tights are the most popular medical knitwear. Visually, they are almost indistinguishable from regular stretch tights; they can also be used by pregnant women. For such patients, low-waisted models are produced. Maternity pantyhose is definitely recommended by all expectant mothers, but these products are a little different from general products. The waist is made in the form of an elastic bandage, the purpose of which is to provide soft support to the abdomen without an uncomfortable squeeze. In addition, choosing the right underwear for expectant mothers should provide good oxygen exchange.
  2. stockings. One of the most practical types of compression products. Such underwear looks good with skirts and dresses without straining the tummy, which is especially important during pregnancy.
  3. Sports Compression Underwear - Leggings. They are made of a special material that provides optimal air circulation and the necessary compression in the calf area to avoid damage to blood vessels and tissues due to increased load. Such products are the most durable and practical because they are produced without the most fragile and wear-resistant part - the socks.
  4. Knee socks. Suitable for calf vasodilation. In addition, there is a compression bra for men, also produced in the form of a golf ball. Men's underwear is no different from ordinary hosiery products in appearance, and it will never be conspicuous under casual pants, so it can be used daily without worrying about looking embarrassing in the eyes of others. Golfs come in several types: usually; with silicone inserts for an optimal fit; with a Velcro waistband; without socks (leggings).
Varicose compression stockings

manufacturer

There are many companies that specialize in compression underwear. It is important to note that such products are not selected in regular stores and markets; medical underwear is sold in specialized medical stores or on the manufacturer's website.

Before buying, you should pay close attention to the packaging. In fact, all compressed products have a unit of density - millimeters of mercury. Without a unit like DEN, beware of getting fakes!

How to determine the right size

Compression knitwear will have a proper therapeutic effect, as long as the most accurate size is chosen, the product should not be too small or too large for the patient.

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

  1. Patients holding stockings should measure the following parameters: ankle circumference; calf circumference in the popliteal fossa area; leg height from floor to knee.
  2. When choosing stockings, in addition to the circumference of the ankle and calf, you should also measure the circumference of the thigh in the area 25-30 cm above the knee according to 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 bodysuit size, you will need to set the ankle circumference, popliteal area, thigh circumference, and the volume of the pelvis. When choosing tights, the length is from the bottom of the heel to the waist.

With the necessary measurements, don't rush to buy the product yourself. Ask your doctor for help, he will not only choose the size you need, but also advise on the required model, material and manufacturer.

Terms of use

Varicose veins Wearing underwear properly is a science that can take some time to master.

  • The hours before waking up in the morning are the best time to wear medical knitwear.
  • When donned at noon, the leg needs to be held in an elevated position for 15 minutes before surgery.
  • You need to turn the toe part slightly, put it on the toes, and gradually pull it up.
  • Once put on, you should smooth out all bumps for maximum comfort.

Nursing Basics

  1. Knitwear should only be washed by hand with warm water and laundry soap.
  2. Strong twisting is not allowed.
  3. It is best to dry the product on a hard surface, terry cloth or other absorbent material. Drying on batteries is not welcome.
  4. If there are silicone inserts, they should be kept dry, moisture can impair their holding properties. It is best to wipe gently with an alcohol solution.
  5. Chemical solvents are not recommended to clean the product from contamination.

in conclusion

Remember - saving too much often leads to losses. Do not buy medicines from unverified companies and sellers, including in the marketplace.

By buying fakes, you're putting your health at risk and risk exacerbating your pain by losing precious treatment time. Healthy!