The compression pressure applied by the tight stockings ensure that the venous valves close and speed up the pumping of blood back to the heart. To treat vein disorders, doctors often prescribe compression stockings. Additionally, compression classes are divided into different degrees of severity. Ofa also offers compression supplies for arms and hands.ĭepending on the vascular disease at hand and the extent of its impact, different types of compression is used in medicine ( flat-knit vs. Compression is predominantly seen in the form of tights or stockings. Compression therapy can either be used preventively (with sports, for example) or to treat acute diseases. The technical term for medical compression is derived from this and stands for mechanical pressure which is applied to a specific part of the body. The word ‘compression’ essentially means ‘pressing together’. Lastofa Forte and Lastofa Extra are medical aids for people who suffer from edema diseases.
How is Manual Lymphatic Drainage prescribed for Lymphedema and Lipedema?.Circular or Flat-Knit Compression Stockings?.Compression for Lipedema and Lymphedema.Typically, people who are prescribed this type of garment have limited mobility. Anti-embolism compression socksĪnti-embolism compression socks are prescribed for individuals who are at increased risk for pulmonary embolisms. Your provider should be clear about why you’re using them, how long you should wear them, and other safety factors.
This type of garment requires a professional fitting, where you’ll be advised on how to use them safely. Graduated compression socks are only available by prescription from your doctor. Nonmedical support hosiery are widely available nationwide and come in many varieties of lengths, fabrics, and patterns. You can choose the level of pressure that these socks apply based on your comfort level. Nonmedical support hosiery are what you most likely think of when you hear the words “compression socks.” These types of compression garments are available for anyone to buy over the counter or online. There are three primary types of compression socks:
Take your compression socks off every day and replace with a clean, dry pair so that the socks don’t adhere to your skin and become difficult to remove.Dispose of compression socks after 30 or so wears, or as soon as you notice them losing their stretch.Hand-wash compression socks and hang them to dry to prevent warping or changes in the fabric.Check your skin for changes like redness, dents, dryness, and chafing between every wear.Follow instructions from sock or stocking manufacturers and your healthcare provider.If you gain or lose weight, get fitted again so that you’re wearing the correct size.Get your compression socks fitted properly by a professional.Here are some best practices for safely wearing compression socks: Remember that most side effects from wearing compression socks only happen when you’re not wearing them correctly. They can provide recommendations for wear and a prescription for medical-grade prescription socks, if needed. If you’ve been wearing compression socks that you’ve purchased over the counter, or if you want to add compression socks to your routine, talk to a doctor. The safest way to use compression socks is to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance. What’s the safest way to use compression socks? When compression socks are improperly fitted, redness and temporary dents in your skin may appear on your legs at the edge of the sock’s fabric. Can cause itching, redness, and irritationĬompression socks can aggravate skin irritation and also cause itching. Note that when compression socks or stockings fit properly, this is far less likely to happen. People who have a compromised skin barrier may experience cuts, scrapes, and bruises from compression socks. If you have dry skin or are traveling in climates with dry air (like on an airplane), your skin is more likely to chafe or scrape. But when they aren’t fitted properly, they can have the opposite effect and prevent blood from circulating in your legs. Here are some potential risks to be aware of: Can cut off your circulationĬompression socks and stockings are meant to provide continuous pressure that supports circulation. It’s also important that compression socks are properly fitted. Some people shouldn’t use compression socks, such as those with delicate or easily irritated skin. That doesn’t mean that they’re safe for everyone in every situation. In general, compression socks are safe to wear when done so correctly.