Why wear compression socks? Primarily to treat disorders such as chronic venous insufficiency, lymphedema, varicose veins, post phlebitis syndrome and to help in the prevention of blood clots in the legs. While not eliminating varicose veins, compression stockings do help to reduce the swelling, aching and heavy feeling that varicose vein sufferers experience. The compression stocking is designed to provide support to the legs and veins by using a graduated support on the legs. The strongest compression support starts at the ankles and gradually decreases the compression strength towards the top of the stocking. The gradual support of the stocking works with the physical pumping action of the calf muscles, assisting in better circulation. A common misconception is that compression stocking will cut off or limit circulation, but when fitted and worn correctly, compression stockings will help to enable proper circulation.
Compression garments, or stockings, are categorized by three or four classes that comprise the compression ranges and are measured in mmHg, millimeters of mercury, the same unit of measure as your blood pressure. 15-20 mmHg are great for daily wear, sports or travel, to help improve circulation without being too tight on your legs. 20-30 mmHg is considered Medical Grade Class 1 and are good for ailments such as varicose veins, swelling, spider veins, and after surgery. Not needing a "condition" to wear this grade, this grade class is for people looking for a little more support. 30-40 mmHg is considered Medical Grade Class 2 and is a stronger level of compression, recommended for lymphedema, blood clots, severe varicose veins, severe swelling, and post-surgery. 40-50 mmHg is Medical Grade Class 3 level and are for individuals who are under the care of a doctor. This grade is usually for patients with severe edema, severe venous stasis, or severe lymphedema.
Juzo USA has been making compression garments for over 100 years, starting a compression stocking factory called 'Funk and Viertel' in East Germany. Juzo USA expanded to the United States in the 1960s while at the same time making the first latex-free compression garment. Juzo has had a number of "firsts" in reference to the compression garment field, including switching from woven to knitted fabrics, adding silver fibers to their garments, and incorporating computer technology into their production processes. Juzo garments are breathable, durable, comfortable to wear and are also highly resistant to oils, lotions, perspiration, and fading in the sun with their special synthetic compression fiber that will resist wear and tear. Juzo garments feature the exclusive FiberSoft™, a process which wraps each compression fiber with soft, protective threads which lift the compression fiber off the skin, ensuring greater durability, wearing comfort, softness and making it easier to put on and take off the garment.
Rehabmart is proud to offer many different types of Juzo's compression stockings and the following are just a few of the many.
Bill Stock
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Hulet Smith, OT
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