Gradient pressure design principle of compression stockings

Gradient pressure design principle of compression stockings

Compression stockings are medical or health-care socks that improve blood circulation in the lower limbs by applying gradient pressure. The design principle is based on the physiological characteristics of human venous blood return. By establishing the highest pressure at the ankles and gradually reducing the pressure along the legs toward the heart, it promotes venous blood return, prevents venous thrombosis, and improves chronic venous insufficiency.

1. The basic principle of compression stockings
The design of compression stockings follows the principle of gradient pressure, that is, the highest pressure (usually 100%) is applied at the ankles, and then gradually decreases along the legs to the calves (70%-90%) and thighs (25%-45%). This pressure gradient design can effectively promote venous blood return, reduce blood stasis, enhance skeletal muscle venous pump function, and improve lymphatic return.

2. The mechanism of action of compression stockings
Promote venous return: By applying gradient pressure, compression stockings can promote blood flow from superficial veins to deep veins, increase blood flow velocity and blood flow in deep veins, and thus improve venous return.
Improve venous valve function: Appropriate gradient pressure can reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​the vein, improve the function of the venous valve, and prevent blood backflow.
Enhance the venous pump function of skeletal muscle: Compression stockings help venous blood return and reduce venous hypertension in the lower limbs by simulating the pumping action of skeletal muscle.
Regulate the level of coagulation factors: Gradient pressure design can regulate the level of some coagulation factors, reduce blood viscosity, and reduce the risk of thrombosis.
Enhance tissue oxygenation: By improving blood circulation, compression stockings can enhance the oxygenation of deep tissues in the lower limbs and promote tissue repair.

3. Design and materials of compression stockings
The design of compression stockings needs to comprehensively consider factors such as pressure gradient, material selection and wearing comfort.
Pressure gradient design: The pressure gradient of compression stockings is usually divided into multiple levels, including low-pressure prevention type (12-18 mmHg), first-level medium-pressure treatment type (20-30 mmHg), second-level high pressure (30-40 mmHg) and third-level high pressure (40-50 mmHg).
Material selection: Compression stockings are usually made of highly elastic materials (such as spandex) and wear-resistant materials (such as nylon) to ensure the stability of pressure and the durability of the stockings.
Structural design: The structural design of compression stockings includes weft plain needle, weft plain needle + spandex pad, single bead + spandex pad, etc. to meet different pressure requirements.

4. Clinical application of compression stockings
Compression stockings are widely used in the medical field, especially in the prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Preventing venous thrombosis: Compression stockings are an important mechanical preventive measure for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), especially for patients after surgery or long-term bed rest.
Improving chronic venous insufficiency: Compression stockings can effectively relieve the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, such as varicose veins, leg swelling and venous ulcers.
Promoting lymphatic return: Compression stockings also show good results in the treatment of lymphedema, promoting the return of lymph fluid through gradient pressure design.

5. Use and maintenance of compression stockings
Correct wearing: Compression stockings need to be worn in the correct steps, including confirming the heel position, straightening the socks, and applying pressure evenly to ensure uniform pressure distribution.
Regular evaluation: During the use of compression stockings, it is necessary to regularly evaluate the skin condition of the lower limbs, blood circulation, etc. to avoid discomfort or complications.
Cleaning and maintenance: Compression stockings need to be cleaned regularly and avoid exposure to the sun or high-temperature drying to extend their service life.

6. Industry development trend of compression stockings
With the advancement of medical technology and the increase in people's demand for health, the design and application of compression stockings are also constantly developing. In the future, compression stockings may make breakthroughs in the following aspects:
Intelligent design: By embedding sensors and intelligent monitoring technology, compression stockings can monitor pressure distribution and blood circulation in real time, providing users with a more accurate health management plan.
Versatility: In addition to the basic gradient pressure design, compression stockings may be given more functions, such as antibacterial, infrared protection, and promotion of tissue repair.
Personalized customization: According to the user's leg circumference, body shape and needs, compression stockings may be more personalized to meet the needs of different groups of people.

7. Summary
The gradient pressure design principle of compression stockings is based on the physiological characteristics of human venous blood return. It promotes blood circulation, prevents venous thrombosis, and improves chronic venous insufficiency through scientific pressure distribution. With the advancement of technology, the design and application of compression stockings will become more intelligent and personalized, providing health protection for more people.