Pressotherapy is the best and very simple preventive and facilitating blood condition in the lower extremities. The procedure is to wear special boots that compress the legs. The pressure is directed upwards, from the foot to the waist or groin. The session usually lasts at least 20 minutes.
Thanks to pressure therapy, the circulation of blood and the lymphatic system of the legs is stimulated. Another advantage of this method is that squeezing the adipose tissue facilitates a faster process of fat metabolism. In addition, in order to provide a therapeutic effect, elastic stockings are used because of the pressure they exert. This is one of the most popular ways in people suffering from diseases due to venous insufficiency of the legs.
The pressure produced by the compressive stocking (clothing, very much like stockings, which women usually wear), falls on the upper part of the ankles; gradually it weakens in a direction from below-upwards, promoting an inflow of blood to the heart.
The veins expand, the functions of various valves are activated, the duty of which is to stimulate the movement of blood, and ultimately, the blood begins to flow much faster. Thus, squeezing stockings are considered a means for permanent use in the fight against stagnation of blood caused by venous insufficiency.
Not having an accurate idea of what constricting stockings look like, you might think that they are one of the few-sympathetic orthopedic garments. A few years ago it really was so. At first glance, it became clear that it was a case of stockings intended to alleviate the pathological conditions associated with blood circulation. Currently, compressing stockings can be exhibited in the windows of the shops of underwear, without standing out among other assortment. With the exception of large-sized products, the use of which is necessary in more serious stages of venous insufficiency, compressing stockings conform to fashion requirements.
Tourist syndrome
In recent years, the problem directly related to blood circulation has become evident, the so-called tourist syndrome. This condition consists in the fact that due to too tight seats of airplanes, blood clots form in the veins of the lower limbs of the passengers, which can cause deep venous thrombosis. Usually, such clots appear during long flights, for example, seven-hour flights. The fact is that a prolonged stay in the same position is capable of provoking this disorder in the circulatory system.
As a result of the research, which was aimed at establishing a connection between the use of compressing stockings and the advent of the tourist syndrome, it was found that stockings could reduce the likelihood of thrombosis by 10%.
The study involved 2,637 people, and thrombosis was detected in 47 people who did not wear stockings, and only three people who used them.
How to Use Compression Stockings
Stockings are very simple to use. It is worth noting that their use is prescribed not only to alleviate the symptoms of venous insufficiency, but also as a preventive measure.
In particular, such stockings can be recommended to people who believe that they are at risk of varicose veins or tired legs syndrome, those with parents who have similar problems or have circulatory disorders, as well as pregnant women, people who spend a long time at work standing up or sitting, etc.
As for the application itself, it is advisable to put on stockings after the morning shower. As soon as you dry your feet, apply a cream or gel to them, which you usually use, and then put on your compressive stockings.
The reason why it is advised to do this in the morning is very simple: as the day draws to a close, the legs swell and therefore it will be more difficult to wear stockings.
Types of compressing stockings
There are two types of problems with blood circulation, in which appropriate models of compressing stockings will be useful.
- The non-severe conditions associated with venous insufficiency require correction by wearing products with a light and super-light compression ratio.
- More serious diseases involve the use of a stocking with a strong and super strong compression ratio.
The type of compression depends on the pressure exerted by the stockings on the ankles. Thus, it is recommended that most people suffering from tired legs syndrome and varicose veins use light and super-light compressive stockings.
Before you buy them, do not necessarily consult a doctor. Conversely, before buying and using stockings with a strong and super strong compression ratio (prescribed for more serious cases) it is necessary to consult a specialist because the pressure exerted by them on the ankles may be too strong.
Electrostimulation for improving blood circulation
Electrostimulation is a modern therapy, the use of which gives good results in eliminating circulatory disorders. The procedure is that the specialist installs electrodes on certain areas of the body, for example, on the hips or venous sole. Then he gives an electric current of low frequency, which stimulates the blood vessels in the dermis. Thus, blood circulation improves and blood vessels strengthen.
You can purchase an electrostimulating device in order to carry out therapy yourself. Such devices are inexpensive and easy to use. The session lasting only for 20 minutes will provide relief to the legs. Remember that you need to consult a doctor, so that he indicates if you are prescribed an electrostimulator in your case, especially if you have veins.
What is an electrostimulator?
The electrostimulator is a simple current generator that produces an electrical discharge capable of altering the action potential of muscle or nerve cells, thus changing their resting state. For electrostimulation of the legs, low-frequency current is used (that is, between 1 and 120 Hz), which allows the muscles to contract, but prevents burning and irritation of the skin.
Be healthy!