Abstract
Background: Below-knee elastic compression stockings are widely used for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. The exact amount of pressure exerted by these stockings on different parts of leg and in different postures remains controversial. Objective: To examine the pressure exerted by correctly fitted class II below knee compression stockings at different levels and postures in normal subjects. Methods: Seven healthy human volunteers (mean age 38 years) were fitted with CEN class II below-knee compression stockings. Interface pressure measurements were recorded at 4 cm intervals from the malleolus to the top of the stocking on the medial and lateral aspects of the leg in supine, sitting and standing postures. Results: The interface pressure at 4 cm and 32 cm above the medial malleolus was not significantly different from the recommended values for class II socks and did not change significantly with posture. In the supine position the pressure at the mid-calf (12 cm) was greater than at the ankle (p < 0.05), creating a reverse pressure gradient, which increased further on standing (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The pressure profile under correctly fitted class II socks varies with posture due to the change in shape of the leg. The resulting profile deviates from the theoretical ideal of a graduated pressure gradient that adapts with posture. The clinical significance of this effect is not known.
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