What Are Compression Hose
Posted on November 10, 2009
Filed Under graduated compression hose, support hose | Leave a Comment
FAQ:
What are Compression Hose used for?
Compression hose, diabetic hose, and support hose and stockings are a simple method of treating disorders such as chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphedema, post phlebitic syndrome and prevention of blood clots in the leg. The stockings can be worn as either in-patient or out patient. They will not eliminate varicose veins, but will aid in reducing swelling, aching and the heaviness feeling. Compression hose can also be worn during long-haul plane trips for helping tired legs and to decrease any possibly of blood clot formation in the legs.
How do compression hose work?
Compression hose are essentially specialized long stockings and, depending on one’s specific need, they come in three different lengths: from the foot to the knee, from the foot to the thigh, or panty hose style. These hose have a gradient of pressure, which is tighter in the foot area and then gradually becomes less so from the the ankle to the knee. When worn properly they reduce the swelling in the feet and also decrease the chance of blood clot formation in the legs. Compression hose are typically constructed of a strong elastic material that fits tightly at the feet and gradually become less tight at the knee.
How long should compression hose be worn?
As long a patient is at an increased risk of forming blood clots in the leg these hose should be worn during the day and removed at night and if possible, keeping the legs slightly elevated while sleeping is highly recommended. For those with varicose veins, venous ulcers and lymphedema, as well as diabetics who are prone to swelling in the legs, the hose will have to be worn for years and in some cases for life.
How are compression hose worn?
The hose should be put on first thing in the morning, while sitting, before getting out of bed. Some practice is required to wear compression hose (see video below). A good deal of pulling is required to get the stockings past the ankle. This gets easier when one is used to wearing the stockings.
Who should not wear compression hose?
Compression stockings squeeze the muscles of the leg and drive blood away from the leg. In those patients who are diabetic, or those who smoke or those who have a decreased blood supply to the legs, compression stockings are not recommended. The compression stockings can decrease the blood supply further and worsen the disease.
Does one need a prescription to buy the hose?
Most hose of good quality sold in most pharmacies and medical supply shops that are approved by the FDA do not require a doctor’s prescription, however, keep in mind, that non-prescription hose will not provide the adequate level of compression required to prevent blood clots or leg swelling. For those complications a doctor will measure assess the size of the leg for custom-made hose to determine the best compression that will be needed as well as the length. Also, you will need a prescription if you request re-imbursement from your insurance company. As a side note: Compression measurements are designed to provide maximum compression starting at the ankle with the compression decreasing as the (these figures will vary depending on the manufacturer) : 8-14, 14-17, 18-24, 23-35, and over 35 mmHg
How should I care for compression hose ?
- Hand-wash (never machine wash them).
- Use warm water (hot water will damage the fibers) and rinse in cool or cold water.
- Use a mild liquid dish detergent. Never use a liquid soap that contains softeners (softeners can breakdown the elasticity of the material) or a soap will stain remover.
- After hand-washing, do not wring or twist compression hose. Instead, lay it on a towel and pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
- Air dry properly at room temperature (never dry in direct hot sun or near a source of excessive heat, such as radiator heat, as this can damage fibers).
- When putting on your compression hose to ensure against snagging the material, remove any jewelry (rings) and do not forcefully pull on them. Using latex gloves are recommended by most manufacturers.
How much will compression hose cost?
For non-prescription hose the price of can range from $30-50 per pair. For those that are custom-made the price will be considerably higher and can cost up to $200. One pair may usually last about 6-12 months depending on how you care for them. It’s always best to hand wash hose to maintain their elasticity.
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