If you have been getting decent readings and get a abnormal reading once in a while, do not worry. One abnormal reading may be an artifact. Relax, do not fret, and measure your blood pressure again within a few hours or the same time the next day. Only if the pattern changes, then you need to see a health care professional.
Because of the tremendous variability in blood pressure, it is vital to measure your blood pressure at the same time and in the same environment regularly. If the blood pressure is stable, one does not need to monitor BP everyday. In the beginning when a treatment has been started, BP measurements may be more frequent. For most individuals with steady BP, measurements can be done once a week.
Once in a while, take your blood pressure device to your health care professional and get it assessed. Make sure the readings you get are comparable to what the doctor gets.
A single high BP reading is meaningless- you want see reproducible readings over time. Physicians only change or prescribe medications, when they see a pattern of high readings - one single high reading is not sufficient to make a change in your diet, medication, or lifestyle.
Blood pressure kits are now widely available. A decent arm or wrist monitor with automatic features costs anywhere from $75-$150. for more on Blood pressure devices, visit www.medexsupply.com
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Which blood pressure monitor is better: wrist or arm?
There are many styles and designs of Blood pressure monitors. Further, there are automatic and manual machines, and now we have arm and wrist BP monitors. So what should a consumer buy?
In all cases, BP monitors work in the same fashion. When the cuff is inflated, the machine calculates your heart rate and blood pressure. The reading is then available when the cuff is deflated. Most BP devices now have a LCD screen which reflects the readings.
Whether one selects a wrist or an arm monitor is strictly a personal choice. The most important criteria for choosing a blood pressure device is that it must be accurate and results must be reproducible. You do not want to buy a machine that gives you erratic readings all the time.
So before you by a machine, learn how to measure blood pressure from your doctor or a nurse. Measure your blood pressure at the same time everyday and be calm. Do not measure your blood pressure when you are rushed and have other things in mind. Keep a log of your readings. There are some devices that can keep track of your blood pressure readings.
Blood pressure is very variable throughout the day. Generally, BP is higher in the morning, and so it is best to take the BP an hour or two after breakfast. Caffeine, cola beverages, smoking, and alcohol all affect blood pressure- so wait at least 30-60 minutes after drinking the above beverages before you measure your blood pressure.
Exercise, walking, headaches, illness, stress, and some medications also influence blood pressure. Exercise always gives high readings.
In all cases, BP monitors work in the same fashion. When the cuff is inflated, the machine calculates your heart rate and blood pressure. The reading is then available when the cuff is deflated. Most BP devices now have a LCD screen which reflects the readings.
Whether one selects a wrist or an arm monitor is strictly a personal choice. The most important criteria for choosing a blood pressure device is that it must be accurate and results must be reproducible. You do not want to buy a machine that gives you erratic readings all the time.
So before you by a machine, learn how to measure blood pressure from your doctor or a nurse. Measure your blood pressure at the same time everyday and be calm. Do not measure your blood pressure when you are rushed and have other things in mind. Keep a log of your readings. There are some devices that can keep track of your blood pressure readings.
Blood pressure is very variable throughout the day. Generally, BP is higher in the morning, and so it is best to take the BP an hour or two after breakfast. Caffeine, cola beverages, smoking, and alcohol all affect blood pressure- so wait at least 30-60 minutes after drinking the above beverages before you measure your blood pressure.
Exercise, walking, headaches, illness, stress, and some medications also influence blood pressure. Exercise always gives high readings.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Everything about Compression Stockings part 7
How do I know what size to buy?
Compression stockings are available in various pressure gradients. All compression stockings have the highest gradient at the ankle/toe, which gradually decreases up the leg. Your health care provider will assess your condition and determine the best compression stocking for you. Leg Measurements are needed to get the best size compression stocking. It is very important to have correct size of compression stocking for good results.
Where can I buy graduated compression stockings?
Once it is decided that you are a candidate for compression stockings, you can buy compression stockings in most health stores. However, these stockings are a lot cheaper from large medical suppliers than individual pharmacies. There are many medical companies who sell these stockings online (e.g. www.medexsupply.com).
Never buy more than one pair initially to make sure you have the correct size and fit.
Are Compression Stockings covered by insurance?
Some insurance companies do cover cost of compression stockings if you have are at a high risk for a blood clot. You can check up on your coverage by calling your insurance carrier.
How much do compression stockings cost?
Compression stockings may be purchased with a physician’s prescription. They may cost anywhere from $30-$120/pair. Most need replacement in 9-18 months. Non-prescriptions compression stockings are also available for much less. As long as the gradient is adequate, non-prescription stockings provide the same relief of symptoms and work just as well as prescription stockings.
For those who have no medical insurance, go and buy a non-prescription pair of stockings. These cost anywhere from $7-$30. The fancy prescription compression stockings cost a lot more. Function wise, there is no difference better the two. Name brands are more expensive. No name brands work just as well, last just as long, but may not be as attractive to wear
For medical stockings, visit www.medexsupply.com
Compression stockings are available in various pressure gradients. All compression stockings have the highest gradient at the ankle/toe, which gradually decreases up the leg. Your health care provider will assess your condition and determine the best compression stocking for you. Leg Measurements are needed to get the best size compression stocking. It is very important to have correct size of compression stocking for good results.
Where can I buy graduated compression stockings?
Once it is decided that you are a candidate for compression stockings, you can buy compression stockings in most health stores. However, these stockings are a lot cheaper from large medical suppliers than individual pharmacies. There are many medical companies who sell these stockings online (e.g. www.medexsupply.com).
Never buy more than one pair initially to make sure you have the correct size and fit.
Are Compression Stockings covered by insurance?
Some insurance companies do cover cost of compression stockings if you have are at a high risk for a blood clot. You can check up on your coverage by calling your insurance carrier.
How much do compression stockings cost?
Compression stockings may be purchased with a physician’s prescription. They may cost anywhere from $30-$120/pair. Most need replacement in 9-18 months. Non-prescriptions compression stockings are also available for much less. As long as the gradient is adequate, non-prescription stockings provide the same relief of symptoms and work just as well as prescription stockings.
For those who have no medical insurance, go and buy a non-prescription pair of stockings. These cost anywhere from $7-$30. The fancy prescription compression stockings cost a lot more. Function wise, there is no difference better the two. Name brands are more expensive. No name brands work just as well, last just as long, but may not be as attractive to wear
For medical stockings, visit www.medexsupply.com
Everything about Compression Stockings part 6
Will a moisturizer ruin my stockings?
A tiny amount of moisturizer on the leg will not hurt the stocking. However, one should never soak the stocking with gobs of creams, lotions, ointment, or oils containing acids or petroleum. All these chemicals can ruin your stocking.
How long does one usually wear compression stockings?
Compression stockings have to be worn as long as you are at risk for blood clots. For those who have varicose veins, stockings should be worn for a life time.
Tips for wearing Compression Stockings
- to relieve symptoms of leg swelling, one must
wear them everyday
- compression stockings are best worn with rubber gloves
- in the beginning compression stockings may feel
tight and warm, so one should wear them a few hours
each day and gradually increase number of hours each week
- stocking should be worn first thing in the morning
- stocking can be worn just before bed time
- if you develop dry skin after wearing stockings, apply
a moisturizer at night
- do not fold or roll your stocking
- do not stretch or tamper with the elastic band in the
stocking
- hand wash and air dry your stocking
- if you look after your stockings, a pair can last
anywhere from 6-12 months or even longer
- if you develop skin discoloration, or pain after
wearing stockings, remove the stockings and see a
health care professional
Do I need a prescription to buy compression stockings?
Some doctors do write a prescription for compression stockings but one can buy them without one. Many insurance companies do reimburse cost of compression stockings if the doctor writes them for a medical disorder. However, one is free to buy compression stockings without a prescription
A tiny amount of moisturizer on the leg will not hurt the stocking. However, one should never soak the stocking with gobs of creams, lotions, ointment, or oils containing acids or petroleum. All these chemicals can ruin your stocking.
How long does one usually wear compression stockings?
Compression stockings have to be worn as long as you are at risk for blood clots. For those who have varicose veins, stockings should be worn for a life time.
Tips for wearing Compression Stockings
- to relieve symptoms of leg swelling, one must
wear them everyday
- compression stockings are best worn with rubber gloves
- in the beginning compression stockings may feel
tight and warm, so one should wear them a few hours
each day and gradually increase number of hours each week
- stocking should be worn first thing in the morning
- stocking can be worn just before bed time
- if you develop dry skin after wearing stockings, apply
a moisturizer at night
- do not fold or roll your stocking
- do not stretch or tamper with the elastic band in the
stocking
- hand wash and air dry your stocking
- if you look after your stockings, a pair can last
anywhere from 6-12 months or even longer
- if you develop skin discoloration, or pain after
wearing stockings, remove the stockings and see a
health care professional
Do I need a prescription to buy compression stockings?
Some doctors do write a prescription for compression stockings but one can buy them without one. Many insurance companies do reimburse cost of compression stockings if the doctor writes them for a medical disorder. However, one is free to buy compression stockings without a prescription
Everything about Compression Stockings part 5
Do compression stockings cause any complications?
In general the answer is NO. However, compression stockings should not be worn when there is decreased blood supply to legs and feet. Individuals who have decreased blood supply to legs are diabetics and smokers. These individual have marginal blood flow and should refrain from wearing compression stockings
What is the major complaint with compression stockings?
Initially most individuals complain that compression stockings feel hot and tight. In hot humid weather, compression stockings can feel uncomfortable. During the summer, most individuals hate wearing stockings.
What are common myths about Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings are only for sick people. This is a false belief. Anyone can wear these stocking. Besides preventing blood clots, these garments can help reduce leg swelling, decreases fatigue and reduce occurrence of varicose veins.
Compression stockings can weaken muscles in the leg. This again is a false belief. No matter how long you wear compression stockings, they have no affect on muscles. In fact, compression stockings work by squeezing muscles of the leg and help improve circulation
When can i stop wearing compression stockings?
You can stop wearing compressions stocking any time. There is no time limit when to stop wearing stockings. Most individual stop wearing compressions stockings during warm weather. Many individuals who undergo surgery can stop wearing compression stockings once they have started to walk again. However, if you have had a prior blood clot in your leg, you need to wear compression stockings for life.
What is the best way to take care of compression stockings?
Compression stockings are durable but can be ruined by improper care. It is recommended that stockings be hand washed and air-dried. Do not use any fancy soap or chemical on stockings- just plain warm water and a detergent is adequate. Compression stockings should be treated gently. Using machines to wash and dry the stocking will ruin them in no time
In general the answer is NO. However, compression stockings should not be worn when there is decreased blood supply to legs and feet. Individuals who have decreased blood supply to legs are diabetics and smokers. These individual have marginal blood flow and should refrain from wearing compression stockings
What is the major complaint with compression stockings?
Initially most individuals complain that compression stockings feel hot and tight. In hot humid weather, compression stockings can feel uncomfortable. During the summer, most individuals hate wearing stockings.
What are common myths about Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings are only for sick people. This is a false belief. Anyone can wear these stocking. Besides preventing blood clots, these garments can help reduce leg swelling, decreases fatigue and reduce occurrence of varicose veins.
Compression stockings can weaken muscles in the leg. This again is a false belief. No matter how long you wear compression stockings, they have no affect on muscles. In fact, compression stockings work by squeezing muscles of the leg and help improve circulation
When can i stop wearing compression stockings?
You can stop wearing compressions stocking any time. There is no time limit when to stop wearing stockings. Most individual stop wearing compressions stockings during warm weather. Many individuals who undergo surgery can stop wearing compression stockings once they have started to walk again. However, if you have had a prior blood clot in your leg, you need to wear compression stockings for life.
What is the best way to take care of compression stockings?
Compression stockings are durable but can be ruined by improper care. It is recommended that stockings be hand washed and air-dried. Do not use any fancy soap or chemical on stockings- just plain warm water and a detergent is adequate. Compression stockings should be treated gently. Using machines to wash and dry the stocking will ruin them in no time
Everything about Compression Stockings part 4
What should I do if stockings are uncomfortable?
Most individuals will find that the stockings feel tight in the beginning. A feeling of tightness and warmth is a common complaint. To get used to the stocking, it is recommended that one wear the stocking for a few hours each day and then gradually increase the number of hours over a few weeks.
The best benefit from stockings is achieved if the garment is worn everyday. Stockings should only be worn during daytime. Nighttime or 24-hour wear is recommended for individuals who have had a stroke, are bed ridden or have or undergone recent surgery.
If my legs are swollen, when should I wear my stockings?
Some individuals have very swollen legs and there is no way to put on compression stockings. If the legs are swollen one should stay indoors and rest. Keep legs elevated for the next 12-24 hours and let the swelling subside. This may require you to put your feet up for a few hours at a time. Once swelling has subsided, put on stockings in the morning. Wear the stocking continually for a few days. Once swelling has come down, then you can wear then only during the daytime.
When should compression stockings not be worn?
There are times when compression stockings should not be worn. These conditions include:
Pain: if you have a lot of pain after wearing a compression stocking, it is highly recommend that you take off the stocking and see a physician. Examination of leg pulses is essential
Skin discoloration. If you have changes in skin color (blue) or pain after putting on compression stocking, remove the stocking and pay a visit to a health care professional
Venous ulcers, which occur on inside of the ankle, are an indication for compression stockings. However, ulcers elsewhere on the leg may be due to other causes and one should not wear stockings if there is evidence of arterial disease
Most individuals will find that the stockings feel tight in the beginning. A feeling of tightness and warmth is a common complaint. To get used to the stocking, it is recommended that one wear the stocking for a few hours each day and then gradually increase the number of hours over a few weeks.
The best benefit from stockings is achieved if the garment is worn everyday. Stockings should only be worn during daytime. Nighttime or 24-hour wear is recommended for individuals who have had a stroke, are bed ridden or have or undergone recent surgery.
If my legs are swollen, when should I wear my stockings?
Some individuals have very swollen legs and there is no way to put on compression stockings. If the legs are swollen one should stay indoors and rest. Keep legs elevated for the next 12-24 hours and let the swelling subside. This may require you to put your feet up for a few hours at a time. Once swelling has subsided, put on stockings in the morning. Wear the stocking continually for a few days. Once swelling has come down, then you can wear then only during the daytime.
When should compression stockings not be worn?
There are times when compression stockings should not be worn. These conditions include:
Pain: if you have a lot of pain after wearing a compression stocking, it is highly recommend that you take off the stocking and see a physician. Examination of leg pulses is essential
Skin discoloration. If you have changes in skin color (blue) or pain after putting on compression stocking, remove the stocking and pay a visit to a health care professional
Venous ulcers, which occur on inside of the ankle, are an indication for compression stockings. However, ulcers elsewhere on the leg may be due to other causes and one should not wear stockings if there is evidence of arterial disease
Everything about Compression Stockings part 3
How do I wear on compression stockings?
Compression stockings can be difficult to put on initially. Because the stockings are tighter at the toe, most people have difficulty pulling them over the foot. However, there are a few easy techniques one can use to put on these stockings. The following guidelines may make it easier to wear compression stockings:
Always make sure your hands are dry before you touch your stockings. Wear gloves if you have them. The type of glove you wear is not important
Compression stockings are best worn first thing when you wake up. After a nights rest, the foot is not swollen and stockings are a lot easier to put on. If you have been up for a few hours, lie down in bed for a few minutes and keeps the legs elevated on a pillow for 5-10 minutes. This will quickly reduce swelling in the leg and make it easier to put the stockings on.
Next, Insert your fingers into the stocking as far as the heel pocket and turn the stocking inside out.
Gently slip your foot into the stocking and glide the stocking over the heel. One should always make sure that the your heel fits perfectly into the heel pocket
Now, gently roll rest of the stocking over the heel up around your ankle and calf.
Never pull or yank at the stocking, this does not help and will ruin our garment. Gently massage the stocking using your palms.
Most people get the hang of this technique and within a week, you will become a professional.
Avoid use of oils and creams while putting on the stocking. Oils and creams generally ruin the fabric and elasticity
When should I wear my compression stockings?
Compression stockings should be worn regularly with consistency. Wearing stockings just once a week will not help solve any problem. The stockings should be worn first thing in the morning and one can take them off just before bedtime. Most individuals claim that once stockings are removed at bedtime, the legs and feet feel relaxed, there is no swelling or pain. The benefit from compression stockings occurs within a few days. Getting used to compression stocking can take a few weeks.
Compression stockings can be difficult to put on initially. Because the stockings are tighter at the toe, most people have difficulty pulling them over the foot. However, there are a few easy techniques one can use to put on these stockings. The following guidelines may make it easier to wear compression stockings:
Always make sure your hands are dry before you touch your stockings. Wear gloves if you have them. The type of glove you wear is not important
Compression stockings are best worn first thing when you wake up. After a nights rest, the foot is not swollen and stockings are a lot easier to put on. If you have been up for a few hours, lie down in bed for a few minutes and keeps the legs elevated on a pillow for 5-10 minutes. This will quickly reduce swelling in the leg and make it easier to put the stockings on.
Next, Insert your fingers into the stocking as far as the heel pocket and turn the stocking inside out.
Gently slip your foot into the stocking and glide the stocking over the heel. One should always make sure that the your heel fits perfectly into the heel pocket
Now, gently roll rest of the stocking over the heel up around your ankle and calf.
Never pull or yank at the stocking, this does not help and will ruin our garment. Gently massage the stocking using your palms.
Most people get the hang of this technique and within a week, you will become a professional.
Avoid use of oils and creams while putting on the stocking. Oils and creams generally ruin the fabric and elasticity
When should I wear my compression stockings?
Compression stockings should be worn regularly with consistency. Wearing stockings just once a week will not help solve any problem. The stockings should be worn first thing in the morning and one can take them off just before bedtime. Most individuals claim that once stockings are removed at bedtime, the legs and feet feel relaxed, there is no swelling or pain. The benefit from compression stockings occurs within a few days. Getting used to compression stocking can take a few weeks.
Everything about Compression Stockings part 2
Which individuals need to wear compression stockings?
Anyone can wear compression stockings but there are a few individuals who are prone to development of blood clots in the legs. Individuals with risk factors for blood clots should wear compression stockings. Most individuals who develops persistent swelling of legs can be significantly improved with compression stockings.
What are risk factors for blood clots in the legs?
Risk factors for formation of blood clots include individuals
- who are overweight
- who have had a previous blood clot
- that are undergoing surgery
- who plan to go on a long car trip
- who are on a long air flight
- who have had a stroke
- who are on the birth control pill
- who have just given birth
- who have a blood coagulation disorder
- who are pregnant
- with cancer
- who are bed ridden
What should one know about compression stockings?
Before buying a compressions stocking, one should know size of the legs and what degree of compression is required. Always get your calf size measured before you buy a stocking. Stocking that are too tight may be very uncomfortable to wear whereas loose stockings may not provide the degree of compression required. Only a few health care professionals know how to prescribe the right stocking- so always get a referral to a vascular surgeon or a physical therapist to get the correct size of stockings.
Which stocking should you buy- knee-high or thigh- high?
For the majority of individuals knee-high stockings will do. Knee-high stockings come up to the knee and are very comfortable. Thigh-high stockings are generally meant for women and need a garter belt to hold them up. Thigh-high stockings do have a tendency to roll down the leg.
Anyone can wear compression stockings but there are a few individuals who are prone to development of blood clots in the legs. Individuals with risk factors for blood clots should wear compression stockings. Most individuals who develops persistent swelling of legs can be significantly improved with compression stockings.
What are risk factors for blood clots in the legs?
Risk factors for formation of blood clots include individuals
- who are overweight
- who have had a previous blood clot
- that are undergoing surgery
- who plan to go on a long car trip
- who are on a long air flight
- who have had a stroke
- who are on the birth control pill
- who have just given birth
- who have a blood coagulation disorder
- who are pregnant
- with cancer
- who are bed ridden
What should one know about compression stockings?
Before buying a compressions stocking, one should know size of the legs and what degree of compression is required. Always get your calf size measured before you buy a stocking. Stocking that are too tight may be very uncomfortable to wear whereas loose stockings may not provide the degree of compression required. Only a few health care professionals know how to prescribe the right stocking- so always get a referral to a vascular surgeon or a physical therapist to get the correct size of stockings.
Which stocking should you buy- knee-high or thigh- high?
For the majority of individuals knee-high stockings will do. Knee-high stockings come up to the knee and are very comfortable. Thigh-high stockings are generally meant for women and need a garter belt to hold them up. Thigh-high stockings do have a tendency to roll down the leg.
Everything about Compression Stockings
What are compression stockings?
Compression stockings have been around for about 30 years. These stockings were initially known as TED stockings (thromboembolic deterrent stockings) and are widely used in hospitals all over the globe.
Twenty years ago, these stockings were used in hospital to prevent formation of blood clots in the leg. The stockings have a higher pressure in the toe and the pressure gradually decreases along the leg. The graded pressure is designed to simulate muscles of the leg and squeeze blood out of the foot and into the upper body. Individuals who wear such stockings have a much decreased rate of blood clot formation. Other benefits of compression stockings include less leg swelling, prevention of varicose and spider veins.
Today, compression stockings are more refined, attractive, made of excellent fabrics, and can be worn by both genders to prevent leg swelling. Many individual wear compressions stocking today as a regular outfit primarily to prevent leg swelling
Can compression stockings be worn by men also?
Yes, Graduated compression stockings are made for both men and women. The stockings come in various styles and designs. The three available styles include knee-highs, thigh-highs, and pantyhose.
What medical disorders can be treated with compression stockings?
Compression stockings are probably the best non-surgical method of treating a variety of medical disorders like:
- spider veins
- star veins
- varicose veins
- lymphedema
- venous ulcers
- post phlebitic syndrome (swelling and discoloration
of leg after an episode of a deep venous thrombosis)
- deep vein thrombosis
- prevention of blood clots in the legs
- venous ulcer
- swelling of legs in congestive heart failure
- swelling of legs in liver and kidney failure
Compression stockings have been around for about 30 years. These stockings were initially known as TED stockings (thromboembolic deterrent stockings) and are widely used in hospitals all over the globe.
Twenty years ago, these stockings were used in hospital to prevent formation of blood clots in the leg. The stockings have a higher pressure in the toe and the pressure gradually decreases along the leg. The graded pressure is designed to simulate muscles of the leg and squeeze blood out of the foot and into the upper body. Individuals who wear such stockings have a much decreased rate of blood clot formation. Other benefits of compression stockings include less leg swelling, prevention of varicose and spider veins.
Today, compression stockings are more refined, attractive, made of excellent fabrics, and can be worn by both genders to prevent leg swelling. Many individual wear compressions stocking today as a regular outfit primarily to prevent leg swelling
Can compression stockings be worn by men also?
Yes, Graduated compression stockings are made for both men and women. The stockings come in various styles and designs. The three available styles include knee-highs, thigh-highs, and pantyhose.
What medical disorders can be treated with compression stockings?
Compression stockings are probably the best non-surgical method of treating a variety of medical disorders like:
- spider veins
- star veins
- varicose veins
- lymphedema
- venous ulcers
- post phlebitic syndrome (swelling and discoloration
of leg after an episode of a deep venous thrombosis)
- deep vein thrombosis
- prevention of blood clots in the legs
- venous ulcer
- swelling of legs in congestive heart failure
- swelling of legs in liver and kidney failure
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Compression socks 101 part 2
There are many styles, designs, colors, and sizes of compression socks. Individuals who sweat a lot should buy cotton made socks. Diabetics or athletes should get compression socks with reinforced heels. These socks are better able to tolerate high pressures and also prevent injury to the foot.
Individuals who stand on their feet all day can help prevent foot swelling and leg aches by wearing compression socks on a daily basis.
Compression socks are recommended for individuals with
- Lymphedema
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Venous ulcer
- Congestive heart failure
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Recurrent foot ulcers
- arthritis
Compression socks can be worn by all individuals, irrespective of age, health, or sex. The latest compression socks are easy to wear, sturdy and extremely comfortable. Compression socks can be washed but are best air-dried to preserve the compression features. One can buy compression socks from most medical supply stores. The cost of these socks varies from $5-$25.
for more on compression socks, visit www.medexsupply.com
Individuals who stand on their feet all day can help prevent foot swelling and leg aches by wearing compression socks on a daily basis.
Compression socks are recommended for individuals with
- Lymphedema
- Varicose veins
- Spider veins
- Venous ulcer
- Congestive heart failure
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Recurrent foot ulcers
- arthritis
Compression socks can be worn by all individuals, irrespective of age, health, or sex. The latest compression socks are easy to wear, sturdy and extremely comfortable. Compression socks can be washed but are best air-dried to preserve the compression features. One can buy compression socks from most medical supply stores. The cost of these socks varies from $5-$25.
for more on compression socks, visit www.medexsupply.com
Compression socks 101
There are many types of compression socks available today. In the past, most compression socks were not durable, did not have any decent pressure gradient and the fabrics were of poor quality. All this has changed in the past 2 decades. Today, compression socks are made from good quality fabrics, are durable, attractive, comfortable to wear and more importantly, affordable.
Compression socks can be worn by both genders. The majority of compression socks available today are attractive, can be worn in the home or at work and help prevent swelling of the feet.
Compression socks have a higher pressure gradient at the toe and the pressure gradually decreases up along the leg. While most compression socks can be worn up to the ankle, the best results are obtained with socks that extend to mid leg or the calf. By gently squeezing blood out of the legs, compression socks limit foot swelling and minimize discomfort that is common at the end of a long day. Most compression socks also have a non elastic band that prevents the sock from rolling down the leg.
Compression socks can be worn by both genders. The majority of compression socks available today are attractive, can be worn in the home or at work and help prevent swelling of the feet.
Compression socks have a higher pressure gradient at the toe and the pressure gradually decreases up along the leg. While most compression socks can be worn up to the ankle, the best results are obtained with socks that extend to mid leg or the calf. By gently squeezing blood out of the legs, compression socks limit foot swelling and minimize discomfort that is common at the end of a long day. Most compression socks also have a non elastic band that prevents the sock from rolling down the leg.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Installing Stair Lifts for the home part 3
Are there any warranties on stair lifts?
Sure, most companies do offer some type of warranty on parts
Are there any safety features on stair lifts?
Yes, many stair lifts come with a variety of safety features. The available safety features include a footrest sensor, seat belt, end of track limit sensor, slack cable sensing, and instant reverse capability.
The safety sensors ensure that the lift will not start prematurely or run unless you are properly seated and fastened with a seat belt. The footrest sensor will detect any obstacles on steps and will not let the lift run until the path is clear
How do stair lifts run?
All stair lifts require electrical power, but a few recent stair lifts can even run on a battery, in case there is power failure.
Can a stair lift carry luggage?
Sure, stair lifts can also be used to transport luggage, boxes or cargo, both up and downstairs.
What is cost of stair lifts?
Cost of stair lifts is variable and depends on style, design, and model you desire. The average starting prices for the actual lift is about $ 1800 and above. Installation is extra. In most cases, one can get a solid sturdy stair lifts under $3,000.
Can stair lifts be installed on all types of staircases?
While stair lifts are almost always installed on straight staircases, there are options available if the stairway is curved.
Please consumers, do not go with the first installer. Get referrals, ask questions, haggle about the price and always get a second opinion. With the economy being the way it is, you have the advantage of negotiating a good price.
Sure, most companies do offer some type of warranty on parts
Are there any safety features on stair lifts?
Yes, many stair lifts come with a variety of safety features. The available safety features include a footrest sensor, seat belt, end of track limit sensor, slack cable sensing, and instant reverse capability.
The safety sensors ensure that the lift will not start prematurely or run unless you are properly seated and fastened with a seat belt. The footrest sensor will detect any obstacles on steps and will not let the lift run until the path is clear
How do stair lifts run?
All stair lifts require electrical power, but a few recent stair lifts can even run on a battery, in case there is power failure.
Can a stair lift carry luggage?
Sure, stair lifts can also be used to transport luggage, boxes or cargo, both up and downstairs.
What is cost of stair lifts?
Cost of stair lifts is variable and depends on style, design, and model you desire. The average starting prices for the actual lift is about $ 1800 and above. Installation is extra. In most cases, one can get a solid sturdy stair lifts under $3,000.
Can stair lifts be installed on all types of staircases?
While stair lifts are almost always installed on straight staircases, there are options available if the stairway is curved.
Please consumers, do not go with the first installer. Get referrals, ask questions, haggle about the price and always get a second opinion. With the economy being the way it is, you have the advantage of negotiating a good price.
Installing Stair Lifts for the home part 2
When the stair lifts are not in use the seat and legs can be folded. There are many styles and designs of stair lifts. The majority of stair lifts can be installed in less than 2-8 hours and be used on the same day. The major issues with installing stair lifts is your function level, weight and what you can afford.
On the day of consult, you will be given all options of a stair lift Once the lift is installed, it is ready for use. There are several styles of stair lifts- some operate manually and others are automatic. The stair lifts also have safety mechanisms and will not operate until the appropriate button is pressed. In most cases, you sit on a stair lift that has a small padded cushion, place your feet inside the frame on the footrest. Once the button is pressed, the lift will slowly move up the staircase. When you want to come down, follow the same routine.
The biggest advantage of stair lift is that they offer you more freedom and also better use of your home. You no longer have to pee in a bucket, or sleep in the downstairs kitchen just because you were not able to walk upstairs.
What weight can a stair lift carry?
Most stair lifts are made of strong durable materials like stainless steel or high strength aluminum. The lifts can carry a weight load of up to 250-350 pounds. Of course, heavy loads also are prone to early malfunction. The lifts work best for individuals less than 220 pounds – the lighter the load the longer the lifts last.
Are the stair lifts comfortable?
Yes, Most have wide padded seat and a footrest. Hopefully, you won’t be using the stair lift as your personal sofa. Many seats can be removed when the lift is not in use
How long have stair lifts been in use?
Stair lifts have come a long ways. In the last decade, technology has improved significantly and stair lifts available today function quite well in the home. The majority of stair lifts are reliable, efficient and can last up to a decade without any malfunction.
On the day of consult, you will be given all options of a stair lift Once the lift is installed, it is ready for use. There are several styles of stair lifts- some operate manually and others are automatic. The stair lifts also have safety mechanisms and will not operate until the appropriate button is pressed. In most cases, you sit on a stair lift that has a small padded cushion, place your feet inside the frame on the footrest. Once the button is pressed, the lift will slowly move up the staircase. When you want to come down, follow the same routine.
The biggest advantage of stair lift is that they offer you more freedom and also better use of your home. You no longer have to pee in a bucket, or sleep in the downstairs kitchen just because you were not able to walk upstairs.
What weight can a stair lift carry?
Most stair lifts are made of strong durable materials like stainless steel or high strength aluminum. The lifts can carry a weight load of up to 250-350 pounds. Of course, heavy loads also are prone to early malfunction. The lifts work best for individuals less than 220 pounds – the lighter the load the longer the lifts last.
Are the stair lifts comfortable?
Yes, Most have wide padded seat and a footrest. Hopefully, you won’t be using the stair lift as your personal sofa. Many seats can be removed when the lift is not in use
How long have stair lifts been in use?
Stair lifts have come a long ways. In the last decade, technology has improved significantly and stair lifts available today function quite well in the home. The majority of stair lifts are reliable, efficient and can last up to a decade without any malfunction.
Installing Stair Lifts for the home
Many elderly and other handicapped individuals live in homes with stairs. Going up and down the stairs is a major complaint by many handicapped individuals and the elderly. Individuals may not be able to go up or down the stairs because of problems with their age, weakness in muscles, arthritis, paralysis, or amputations of extremities. For these individuals, they have no choice but to remain downstairs or on the ground floor. For many individuals this was the only option for decades. This option is also not great if there are no personal care facilities on the ground floor.
Many elderly individuals and handicapped patients have lived their entire lives under such miserable conditions simply because they could afford to live anywhere else, nor did they have money to make extensive home renovations.
Now there is a reasonably priced option for many individuals who have stairs in the house but cannot walk.
In the last decade, several home design companies have come up with stair lifts that are easy to install and can be used immediately. One does not need to break the home down to install these stair lifts. The stair lifts can carry you upstairs and also bring you downstairs, safely and fast.
Stair lifts are an excellent choice for individuals who live in multi story homes but are not able to go up or downstairs. These automatic stair lifts are not bulky or obvious and do not take up too much room on the stair case.
Many elderly individuals and handicapped patients have lived their entire lives under such miserable conditions simply because they could afford to live anywhere else, nor did they have money to make extensive home renovations.
Now there is a reasonably priced option for many individuals who have stairs in the house but cannot walk.
In the last decade, several home design companies have come up with stair lifts that are easy to install and can be used immediately. One does not need to break the home down to install these stair lifts. The stair lifts can carry you upstairs and also bring you downstairs, safely and fast.
Stair lifts are an excellent choice for individuals who live in multi story homes but are not able to go up or downstairs. These automatic stair lifts are not bulky or obvious and do not take up too much room on the stair case.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)