Understanding Compression Stockings
Flat vs. Circular Knitting
Every morning you stand in front of your wardrobe to get ready for the day. You know that your compression stockings are essential to relieve the swelling and pain in your legs. But today you face a new decision: Should you choose circular knit or flat knit? This choice can make a significant difference in your comfort and quality of life.
Circular knitting: Efficiency and Flexibility
Round-knitted compression stockings are knitted seamlessly and in a continuous cycle. This results in even compression throughout the entire length of the stocking. They are particularly flexible and adapt well to leg movements, making them ideal for daily use.
Flat knitting: Robustness and Specificity
Flat-knitted compression stockings, on the other hand, are made on a flat knitting machine and are particularly robust and dimensionally stable due to their specific shaping. They offer a more precise fit and are often recommended for more severe forms of venous diseases such as lymphedema or pronounced varicose veins.
Understanding Compression Stockings
How to distinguish circular knitting from flat knitting?
To distinguish circular knitting from flat knitting, there are some simple identifying features:
- Circular Knitting: These stockings have a seamless construction and feel uniformly elastic. They fit snugly to the leg and provide even compression without interruptions.
- Flat knit: Flat-knitted stockings, on the other hand, have a visible seam on the inside, which makes them particularly robust and stable. They are often firmer to the touch and offer more precise compression, tailored specifically to individual needs.
Understanding Compression Stockings
Distinction between flat knitting and circular knitting
| Feature | Circular knitting | Flat knitting |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing process | Seamless construction in a cycle | Knitting machine with visible seam |
| Flexibility | Very flexible, adapts well to movements | Firm grip, dimensionally stable and robust |
| Precision | Uniform compression over the entire length of the stocking | More precise adaptation to specific shapes |
| Application | Ideal for daily use | Recommended for severe venous diseases |
