Phlebological centre Antwerp
Therapeutic elastic (support) stockings (TEK)
Prevention is the message. It is essential at the first signs of swelling in the legs to treat this. First with a compression bandage (non-elastic compressive bandage) and, once the leg has shrunk again, with a properly fitted therapeutic elastic stocking or TEK.
Do you have a job that requires you to stand a lot and for a long time? Then we recommend moving around enough while standing and tightening the calf muscles regularly, but also wearing elastic compression stockings - or support stockings - prevents varicose veins. Also during pregnancy, compression stockings are a good solution to prevent varicose veins. Should you already have varicose veins, these stockings help their extension. In addition, the stockings provide extra support. We recommend you wear fitted tights from about the third month. There is much more to tell about stockings and tights that provide special support and are suitable for everyday use, especially in standing jobs, but this is beyond the scope of this website. In any case, depending on the condition of your legs and your personal situation, we can provide you with further information.
Treatment of the open leg (crural ulcer) is often laborious and lengthy. Therapeutic elastic support stockings are indispensable for this. It goes without saying that elastic stockings must be comfortable to wear, and correct sizing is an important prerequisite for this. A stocking can be as good as it is, but if it is not comfortable, it soon ends up in the wardrobe and becomes worthless. Legs have measurements that vary enormously in length and size. The pressure of the stocking should be highest at the ankle and foot and decrease upwards. A properly measured elastic support stocking requires expertise.
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Even when surgical intervention is no longer appropriate due to old age, poor general condition or any other reason, a good support stocking remains a very good alternative.
Most often, varicose vein disease involves a hereditary predisposition. The good news, however, is that almost always only the superficial vein system is affected. However, the vast majority (90%) of the backflow of blood occurs via veins running between the muscles. Complaints caused by problems with the main veins located inside the limb can often be remedied nonoperatively. Your specialist will then advise you to wear certain compression stockings, take vein-strengthening medication, and sometimes physiotherapy is suggested.