Washing Characterization of Compression Socks

Abstract

Background Compression socks are highly recommended textile garments for the exertion of compression pressure (kPa) at the ankle. They work on the principle of the highest pressure at the ankle gradually decreasing from the ankle to the calf. Aim The aim of the current research is to analyze all of the compression sock samples (Class I, Class II, and Class III) simultaneously at various number of times of washing them. Method All of the sock samples were washed in a standard washing machine with standard methods (ISO 6330). For the measurement of the compression pressure, a Salzmann MST MKIV pressure measuring device was used according to the RAL-GZ 387/1 method. Results Results included the effect of multiple wearing and washing cycles (up to 20) on compression pressure, the effect of temperature (up to 100°C) on compression pressure (kPa); multiple wearing and washing cycles on the percentage of shrinkage and the effect of marking methodology on compression pressure (Kpa) were observed and are discussed in this article. The results suggest that washing is the most important factor to consider while compression socks are used for compression therapy because they directly influence the efficacy of streamline blood flow across the legs.

Effects of washing on structural parameters of medical compression stockings

“…Therefore, the interactions between washing time and drum speed, washing time and washing temperature significantly affected the circumference of the MCS. Moreover, as the circumference of the MCS decreases, the size of the MCS becomes smaller than before, meaning that wearing MCS washed at higher temperatures will tighten the leg tight and cause more compression, which can be explained using Siddique's work (Siddique et al, 2022). Therefore, the washing of MCS should be performed at a lower temperature, which can help maintain its structural parameters and performance.…”

“…Thus, Siddique et al extended the study by machine washing CS at 30, 50, 75 and 100 8C. They reported that the increase in the temperature from 30 to 100 8C resulted in a consistent increase in compression pressure (Siddique et al, 2022). Furthermore, Siddique et al investigated the impact of multiple machine washes on CS compression pressure (Siddique et al, 2020).…”

“…Therefore, analyzing the structure of CS forms the basis for understanding its performance. For example, Siddique et al studied the influence of multiple machine washes on CS structural parameters, including dimensional variation and shrinkage (Siddique et al, 2022).…”

Sensory and Tactile Comfort Assessment of Sub-Clinical and Clinical Compression Socks on Individuals with Ankle Instability

“…In one study, Gupta et al [28] investigated the use of elastic knitted fabric to produce compression garments that significantly increase the wearers' comfort levels. In a related study on a similar comfort assessment, the researchers showed that rib-structured compression socks were better than single jersey compression socks in terms of easiness and enhanced comfort [27]. However, whether wearing different pressure levels of compression socks affects the comfort of the wearer or not remains unclear and needs further investigation, especially when undertaking postural stability activities.…”

“…As compression socks come into close contact with the skin, heat transmission occurs through the socks via conduction. Several parameters are associated with this conduction, such as thermal conductivity, air permeation, and thermal effusivity [27]. Changes in thermal perceptions can lead to discomfort assessments or affect user compliance.…”