I was diagnosed with orthostatic hypotension. Am I better off with knee-high or thigh-high stockings? Also, which part of the body needs the most compression (ankles, calves, or thighs)?
Orthostatic hypotension is a disorder where a person's blood pressure drops when they are in the standing position. That being said, compression stockings can be very helpful in this type of situation by helping to minimize blood pressure drops. Thigh-high or even pantyhose-type compression stockings are preferable to thigh/ankle stockings in the case of orthostatic hypotension.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
I believe a full panty-style is best. The compression is highest at the ankle and less at the upper thigh.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Calf-length compression stockings may be better tolerated for long-term use. A 30-40 mmHg gradient is more effective. The compression is greatest at the foot.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Knee-high compression stockings should do the job. You get at least 80% to 100% of the benefit.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It depends on how severe your orthostatic hypotension is. Still, you most likely need thigh-high compression stockings. The stockings produce progressive compression from the ankles to the thighs.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
If the compression stockings help at all, thigh-high would probably be best.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Thigh-high would be better, and the compression should decrease from the ankle to the thigh.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Thigh-high compression stockings would theoretically help more, but even a knee-high hose should help.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You may need to try several strengths before you find the right pair of compression stockings. Firstly, you need to be measured and fitted correctly and given instruction on how to apply them with ease. You could start with 15-20 mmHg and a knee-high hose. The calf is the largest pump muscle in the leg. This is sub-clinical strength but they make many attractive styles, are easier to apply and offer good compression. If this isn't as effective as you need, move up to 20-30 mmHg. Again, as this is prescription clinical strength, you should be professionally measured and fitted. I do not think you need to go higher than this, but if needed you could try a thigh-length stocking. There are many brands out there that range from expensive to cheap. I recommend purchasing a better brand, as they are generally easier to apply and more comfortable to wear. Also, the fabrics are better.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Orthostatic hypotension is no fun and it most certainly is nothing to scoff at. In severe cases, it can be quite debilitating. As for what compression and type of hose would be the best for you that, in a very real sense, is a hard question to answer. Everyone that suffers from this condition is different, and the degree to which it effects them and their everyday life varies widely. A good general answer though would probably be to use a 20-30 mmHg compression knee-high (you shouldn't have to wear thigh high or panty hose) hose. This degree of compression should be sufficient to help counteract the acute symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. In some cases, it may also be necessary to wear an abdominal binder to aid venous return from the gut. That though is usually optional and dependent on how effective the compression hose are.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
20-30 mmHg thigh-high compression stockings should be adequate.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Given your condition, thigh-high compression stockings would work best.
Published on Jul 11, 2012