Types of compression stockings by pressure class and knitting technology

Types of compression stockings by pressure class and knitting technology

Compression knitwear for women and men - classification

Compression knitwear for the lower limbs helps the correct distribution of pressure on the blood vessels of the legs. It is used for prevention and treatment of varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, post-thrombotic disease, lymphedema. Compression underwear is also necessary in the postoperative period, after procedures of laser obliteration, sclerotherapy and other manipulations on blood vessels.

Why do you need a compression jersey

Compression therapy is based on a simple but quite effective mechanical principle - special underwear exerts pressure of varying intensity on the limb. It is stronger in the area of ​​the ankle, and decreases up the leg. Uneven pressure helps venous return, prevents venous stasis.

Why do you need a compression jersey? Socks, stockings, and pantyhose help reduce swelling, heaviness in the legs, relieve fatigue, and pain. Wearing compression underwear helps to accelerate the outflow of venous blood, venous valves receive additional support, blood does not stagnate, and the risk of blood clots decreases.

Compression therapy is an integral part of the active treatment of recurrent trophic ulcers. However, it is important to know that compression underwear cannot be worn in certain conditions (for example, arterial and diabetic ulcers). Therefore, before using compression, you should consult a doctor.

Types of compression knitwear

How to choose a compression jersey? If there are no contraindications, compression underwear can be purchased independently. For pathologies of the veins of the lower extremities, elastic bandages, knee socks, stockings, tights are used for compression therapy. To choose the right compression jersey, you need to know the circumference of the lower leg. Well-chosen stockings or pantyhose will provide effective pressure and will be comfortable to use. Poorly selected knitwear can cause discomfort, bring more harm than good.

Types of compression knitwear depending on the level of pressure created in the ankle area:

  • pressure class 14–17 mm Hg. used at the initial stage of varicose disease, as well as for its prevention;
  • pressure class 18–24 mm Hg. used for moderate varicose veins and for the prevention of relapses of the formation of trophic ulcers;
  • pressure class 25–35 mm Hg. recommended for severe varicose veins, severe edema, chronic venous insufficiency, trophic ulcers.

Compression knitwear for women is made from various fibers of elastane, nylon, cotton. Compression underwear is circular knit and made using flat knitting technology. The first is produced both in the form of ready-made products and made to order. "Flat" underwear is made to order according to individual sizes. Such socks, stockings and tights are easier to put on and take off, as they are more elastic.

How to use compression jersey correctly

For the prevention of varicose veins in the stronger sex, a special compression jersey for men has been developed. Such socks and stockings are worn instead of ordinary socks, but their length reaches the knee or the middle of the thigh. Manufacturers also took care of men who regularly play sports. Special golf shoes with antiseptic silver ions are produced for them, which absorb the smell of sweat. Men's golf shoes usually come in several colors, which allows you to choose a shade that matches your outfit.

Compression jersey should be put on every morning and taken off in the evening. Only special postoperative bandages are worn around the clock. Manufacturers recommend washing the product after each use. To maximize the effect of compression, you should buy new underwear every six months.

Studies have shown that compression knitwear should be worn regularly. Stopping its use leads to exacerbation of the underlying disease. Doctors warn that wearing compression underwear, exercise, diet, and skin care are mandatory components of long-term therapy for venous insufficiency. Read more about the treatment of venous insufficiency on our website https://www.dobrobut.com.

Updated: 03.04.2025
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Doctors who advise on this issue:
16experience (y.)
Nahaliuk Yuliia Volodymyrivna
Nahaliuk Yuliia Volodymyrivna
Vascular surgeon
22experience (y.)
Herasymova Elina Volodymyrivna
Herasymova Elina Volodymyrivna
Vascular surgeon
11experience (y.)
Klevets Kateryna Pavlivna
Klevets Kateryna Pavlivna
A general practitioner is a family doctor; Gastroenterologist; Physician
30experience (y.)
Smoliak-Smietkina Svitlana Pavlivna
Smoliak-Smietkina Svitlana Pavlivna
Pediatrician; Pediatric gastroenterologist

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