If your doctor has advised you to wear compression hosiery, you may be confused by the dizzying array of options. Not only do graduated medical compression stockings come in a variety of pressures and styles, but you can choose from socks, knee highs, thigh highs, and full-length compression garments.
For knee length socks you can measure the calf circumference of the patient at the largest part of his/her calf to determine the size, and measure the distance from base of the heel to the back of bend of knee to determine the length. Ankle Circumference is also often that is measurement needed. Each manufacturer should stipulate the ranges on their packaging in order to help in selecting the correct size with some companies providing colour coded tape measures as a handy aid. Knee length stockings have been proven in recent studies to be more effective than full length stockings for a variety of reasons. Patient comfort and compliance is increased with the knee length socks as compared to thigh length. It is generally accepted that knee-length is suitable for most patient cases post DVT and as a preventative management.
Compression stockings are available in a sheer material, trouser sock, and athletic sock styles. Compression begins in the ankle and decreases as it goes up the leg. Individuals who have the ability to sit, stand, and walk have gravity working against them, gravity pulls away additional fluid from the upper and mid leg to the ankle and foot, thus eliminating swelling problems among others. When wearing a medical grade compression stocking, the compression begins at the forefoot and decrease as it goes up the leg pushing any extra fluid up and out of the area. Normal compression lasts six months giving the user more time before having to obtain replacement.
Kilt hose and stockings are technological innovations that are Wool Blended with Acrylic & combined with Lycra. They are extremely comfortable to wear with excellent Stretch. The socks are made from a high-friction material that grips securely around the leg. Long compression stockings can sometimes bunch and buckle, but this can be addressed with a maternity belt or garter.
Compression socks were originally only prescribed to those with poor circulation but now many others find them helpful, such as passengers on long airplane rides or people with jobs that require them to stand in one place for many hours may also wear flight socks. Compression socks are also used to speed post-surgical recovery for edema, venous ulcers, phlebitis, varicose veins, spider veins, and deep vein thrombosis. Others who might benefit from compression socks include obese individuals, those who have had a previous blood clot, those who have had a stroke, and those who are bed ridden. Compression socks are also used by athletes to increase their endurance, reduce lactic acid build-up, reduce cramping, and boost overall performance.
When flying, it's important to take steps to avoid developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, commonly known as DVT, a potentially fatal condition which can occur after long periods of inactivity, like sitting on a long haul flight. In the United States, figures indicate that one in 100 people who develop DVT die, but the good news, DVT can be easy to prevent through simple precautions like wearing DVT socks, exercising during a flight, and drinking plenty of water. Read on to find out more about how to have a safe and healthy flight and prevent DVT.
No comments:
Post a Comment