How it works ?
Restraint is used to support the dilating veins. “It is recognized as a basic treatment for chronic venous disease by HAS and has been the subject of numerous studies over the past ten years. These have notably shown the effectiveness of restraint in particular situations: during long air flights and during the practice of certain sports, such as tennis or the half-marathon. », Explains Dr Blanchemaison, phlebologist.
What are the different models?
There are already “well-being” compression stockings: in this case we are not talking about class but of money, as with classic tights. They can be used on a daily basis as a preventive measure. The compression obtained is very light, so the efficiency is lower.
The other models are divided into 4 classes:
-Class 1 (from 10 to 15 mmHg) for light compression. Advised at the very beginning, when the first signs of venous fatigue appear, “to feel better and in prevention”, recommends Dr. Blanchemaison.
-Class 2: (from 15 to 20 mmHg) for medium compression. In case of heavy legs associated with swelling. This class is also often the one used by pregnant women.
-Classes 3 and 4 are therapeutic and reserved for the more serious stages of the disease. Due to their high compression, they are often more difficult to put on.
How to choose the right one?
“Priority to feeling!” If we have a sensation of withers on the new knee, it is because it is not the right one. ”Warns Dr. Blanchemaison, who recommends trying the model if possible before buying it. The pressure must also be stronger at the bottom than at the top: “it must be tighter at the ankle and then less and less tight to the top”, specifies Dr Blanchemaison. The measurements are taken around the ankle, the top of the knee and between the thighs. “The calf circumference is therefore not taken into account”, notes Dr Blanchemaison, however, we are not all made the same, hence the need to test several brands and several models (tights, stockings, socks … ). “If the stockings are wrinkled or if we see the mark of the socks on our leg when removing them, it is because it was not the right one!” », Summarizes Dr Blanchemaison.
Are they reimbursed?
Class 1 stockings are not reimbursed by Health Insurance, unless they are used to overlap them on stockings from another class. The other classes can be reimbursed on medical prescription. The doctor then specifies whether it is a standard or custom stocking. The purchase of reimbursed stockings requires going to an approved pharmacy which has a dedicated and separate space to take the appropriate measures.
When to put them?
They can be put on all day, but it is not compulsory: “wearing stockings from morning to night is especially useful in anticipation of a long day on your feet or for risky professions subject to trampling (sales assistants, hairdressers, hostesses). air, surgeons, etc.) ”, explains Dr Blanchemaison. The rest of the time and in the absence of overly pronounced symptoms, they can be reserved for specific situations such as air travel: for relief or prevention.
Read also :
– How to choose compression stockings
– Heavy legs: what really works
– 4 heavy anti-leg reflexes
