In earlier times, medical compression stockings were also a therapeutic measure that had its purpose. Nowadays, however, compression stockings are much more chic and inconspicuous.
What are compression stockings?
The effect in a compression stocking is to reduce the cross-section of certain blood vessels by the pressure of the fabric, which has only limited elasticity, and thus to support the flow of blood towards 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 appropriate 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 fabric, which has limited elasticity, and thus to support the flow of blood towards the heart. Since a pressure or compression is performed on these blood vessels, the stockings are equally called compression stockings. The prescribed compression stockings are made in different standardized classes from I to a maximum of IV and vary in strength. The attending physician indicates on the prescription which strength is required. To put on compression stockings professionally correctly, certain previous knowledge is required.
Forms, types and styles
When it comes to compression stockings, the ranges include calf-high and thigh-high compression stockings, as well as half-thigh stockings and compression tights. The compression stockings are also available as arm stockings with or without shoulder area and without or in combination with a hand piece. The toe, the hand and the heel are additionally made stretchable. Before weaving the compression stockings, measurements are also taken of the heel, the ankles of the calves, the thighs and the instep. In addition to this, the compression stockings are prescribed in normal clothing sizes. It is especially important to measure the ankles. Textile fabrics of compression stockings have non-stretched thickness from 0.5 to 1.4 mm. Textile fibers of polyamide, cotton, spandex, viscose and modern microfiber structures are used. Elastic blended fabrics are used for the production of textile compression stockings. These individual collections also soften visually visible variations in types of knitting and colors.
Structure, function and mode of action
A medical compression stocking is created in special knitting processes within which a yarn is knitted by machine, creating varying horizontal and vertical elasticity. Typical knitting technologies are circular and flat knitting. Under these circumstances, some compression stockings feature a seam, while others do not. Seamless compression stockings are common for classes I through III. One quarter of all compression stockings prescribed annually are traditional custom-made stockings. Support stockings are not subject to prescription by a physician. Compression or support stockings prevent the blood from flowing back or “pooling” in the veins. By compressing the veins, insufficiently closing venous valves become tighter again and the heart experiences relief. In addition, the smaller cross-section of the compressed veins increases the flow rate of the blood and the risk of thrombosis can be reduced. Compression stockings are an indispensable part of a therapy for existing venous valve insufficiency (loss of function of the venous valves).
Medical and health benefits
Because of their well-designed structure, compression stockings help provide real relief to the veins and cardiovascular system in many patients. Compression stockings also support the general well-being of those affected. That is why people who sit a lot and for a long time in a row and cannot increase the muscle activity of their legs by walking, even prophylactically wear the compression stockings. The compression stockings are therefore recommended when long flights or sedentary activities that cannot be interrupted are planned. To counteract an imminent risk of thrombosis, which can become life-threatening under certain circumstances, compression stockings are ideal for patients who are considered a risk group due to pre-existing conditions.Against the same background, medical compression stockings are also given to people in need of treatment who suffer from impaired function of the venous valves in their legs. The more pronounced the venous weakness, the higher the compression effect of the stockings or tights must be. In seasons when blood circulation is particularly poor due to weakness of the venous valves caused by hot weather, compression stockings are indispensable companions. They also help prevent varicose veins or open ulcers on the leg. Those who frequently suffer from swollen legs and ankles and painful leg discomfort, as well as the symptom of heavy legs, may want to dress in the currently quite fashionable compression stockings.
