Orthopedic lumbosacral corset: nuances of choice

Dear friends, hello!

We continue our orthopedic educational program. We have already talked about products for the cervical and thoracic spine. Were there any sales? What about the difficulties? If anything, write, don’t be shy. Let's figure it out!

Today we will “go down” to the most problematic area of ​​the spine – the lumbosacral. Why the most problematic? Yes, because he has to support the entire upper body: head, chest, shoulder girdle, arms... And also because we don’t walk on all fours. In this case, the load would be distributed evenly across 4 legs.

And also because we lift weights incorrectly and don’t even think about the fact that our dear and beloved lumbar vertebrae are experiencing colossal loads at this moment. To alleviate their plight, weights should be lifted with legs slightly bent at the knees.

And although this section of the spine has the most powerful vertebrae, this, alas, does not save it.

That is why there are more orthopedic lumbosacral corsets. This means that you have the most questions about this group of products: “How to understand them? They all look the same!” “When to offer what?”

Calmly! Just don't panic! I'll explain everything now.

Please tell me what customer needs you had to deal with when selling a lumbosacral corset? Probably with these:

• To quickly relieve acute pain.
• To relieve the aching pain.
• To be inexpensive and effective.
• To keep you warm.
• To protect.
• So that it is invisible under clothes.
• To be cute.

Etc.

And this is not a complete list of buyer needs.

In general, for some it’s ordinary, and for others “with mother-of-pearl buttons.”

Which brand of orthopedic corset is better to choose?

Experts included 7 companies that received the largest number of positive reviews from customers and high ratings from medical specialists into the top list of the best manufacturers. Among their products, the rating includes the most popular products from the budget, mid-range and premium categories. The best orthopedic corsets were presented by:

• Orlett is a trademark owned by the German company RehardTechnologies GmbH. The creation of orthopedic devices is carried out by leading specialists, guided by strict requirements for the production process. Before being released for sale, each unit undergoes thorough testing by doctors.
• Oppo Medical Inc is a dynamically developing US corporation that has been manufacturing orthopedic products for more than 10 years. The brand is well known in Russia, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The main indicators of goods are high quality, safety, and environmental friendliness.
• Trives is a company from St. Petersburg, founded in 1992. For almost 2 decades, it has been engaged in medical products and products to improve the quality of life. Received approval from leading orthopedists in the country. The range includes different devices for children, adolescents, and adult patients.
• Ecoten is a Russian manufacturer of orthopedic treatment and prophylactic products. It has a research and development department and cooperates with foreign partners. Every year it produces more than 1.5 million products for the whole family, including bandages, pillows, compression hosiery and other products.
• Medi is a German company that was founded in 1920. Engaged in the development and promotion of orthopedic devices to the global market. The operating principle is a professional, high-quality approach to the production of products, the introduction of the latest innovations in the field of medicine and technology. Distinctive features: attractive design.
• Crate is a manufacturing company that was founded in St. Petersburg in 1999. It is the largest manufacturer of medical products for prevention, therapy, hospital care, and rehabilitation in the North-West of the country. Each unit is repeatedly tested in clinical conditions before being released for sale.
• Comf-Ort is a trademark, a time-tested brand of orthopedic products in Russia. Founded in 2015. Engaged in the manufacture of preventive and therapeutic devices for children and adults. It has a rich material and technical base. Production undergoes careful control at all stages, and the company is constantly expanding its product range.

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Rating of orthopedic corsets

In order to select leaders from a large list of similar products on sale, experts first became familiar with the level of demand. Among the most popular devices for posture correction, those that received the maximum number of positive reviews from customers were included in the rating. The following criteria and features of the nominees were also taken into account:

• Design features – elastic, magnetic, electronic;
• Area of ​​destination: lumbar, lumbosacral, thoracolumbar;
• Materials – natural, synthetic, combined;
• Gender orientation – male, female, unisex;
• Size – ratio of height, bust, waist;
• Comfort – elasticity of materials, method of fastening, reliability of fixation;
• Safety – hypoallergenic, risks of injury;
• Age category – for child, teenager, adult;
• The function of the corset is to reduce the load, fix the joints, and reduce pain.

On sale you can see preventive and therapeutic models, as well as devices for pregnant women and athletes. The right choice will largely depend on the doctor’s recommendations after the examination. We selected orthopedic corsets from reviews of leading medical specialists from different countries.

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The best lumbar orthopedic corsets

One of the most vulnerable parts of the human body is the lower back. In this area, the spinal column regularly bears heavy loads, supporting the upper body. Against the background of various diseases or simple fatigue, acute pain may occur that hinders movement. A lumbar orthopedic corset can correct or prevent this situation altogether. Based on the practice of doctors and reviews of their patients, the 2 best offers in this rating category were determined.

Orlett IBS-2004

This device is attached to the lumbar region with a medium degree of fixation. Additionally, metal stiffening ribs and low-elastic belts help attach to the back. Regular use of such an orthosis helps to unload the lumbar region and reduce the dangerous load on the muscular corset in this area. This in turn prevents attacks of pain. The model is made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials - cotton, polyester, elastane, polyamide, latex, polyvinyl chloride. There is a wide range of sizes to choose from from XS to XXL, as well as two colors – black and beige. Indications for use from a doctor: radiculitis, lumbago, osteochondrosis of this part of the spine, prevention of the acute stage of spondylopathy, injuries due to prolonged stress due to human activity.

Advantages

• Price;
• Good back support;
• Lots of medical indications;
• Disease prevention;
• Elimination of imbalance;
• Convenient fixation.

Flaws

• Discomfort in the first days;
• Not for long wearing.

How to use such a device is described in detail in the instructions. If you do not follow the rules, it can put pressure on the internal organs of the peritoneum, slide down, and insufficiently support your back. The percentage of positive reviews is above 90%, praising the price, reliable support, and prevention of complications. The downside is that you cannot wear Orlett IBS-2004 all the time; the first attempts will cause discomfort and pain.

Oppo Medical AccuTex 2950

Stabilizing model with a soft degree of fixation from a well-known American manufacturer. The main task is to maintain the spine. Due to knitting materials of different densities, an anatomically correct compression effect is ensured. The Oppo Medical AccuTex 2950 is made from a combination of nylon, spandex, polyester, polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, cotton and thermoplastic polyurethane. The model fits, but does not rub or press, holds its original shape for a long time, reduces pain, and helps the spine maintain its correct shape. An H-shaped insert inside the structure increases the reliability of fixation, and U-shaped double-sided tapes increase the degree of compression. Indications in the instructions are rehabilitation after operations, spinal injuries, pain in the lumbar region, constant stress on this area. Size range for waist from 70 to 120 cm.

Advantages

• High quality;
• Correct compression effect;
• Reliable fixation without pressure;
• Elasticity of materials;
• Wide range of sizes;
• Spinal support.

Flaws

• Fabric soiling;
• Price.

This type of orthopedic corset for the lumbar region is in great demand due to its well-designed design, anatomical shape, correct degree of compression, and wide size range.

Doctors prescribe Oppo Medical AccuTex 2950 for both prevention and maintenance of the spine during the rehabilitation period. The downside is that some users note that the light fabric is soiled and the price is higher than domestic analogues.

What types of lumbosacral corsets are there?

They come in hard and semi-hard.

But I prefer the classification according to the degree of fixation. It is the most understandable, and many doctors use it. See:

Full fixation corsets are used immediately after injuries and operations. They almost completely eliminate movement in the damaged segment.

Strong fixation corsets are used for severe pain.

Medium fixation corsets are used for moderate pain.

Well, a light degree of fixation is, as a rule, some kind of warming belt. It is not a corset, so we won’t talk about it.

Full fixation corset Strong fixation corset Medium fixation corset

Since you most often have corsets with a strong and medium degree of fixation, I will dwell on them in more detail.

The best lumbosacral orthopedic corsets

Today, pharmacies and specialized stores sell a huge number of lumbosacral corsets of domestic and imported production. They differ in their functional purpose and can be fixative or corrective. The first keep the spine in one position, others correct posture and support the back. Experts reviewed the most popular products, highlighting 3 leaders based on the percentage of positive reviews and doctor recommendations.

Trives T-1555

This 25 cm high model is made of breathable materials that do not rub the skin or cause irritation. The composition includes elastane, polyamide, polyurethane foam, and polyester. 6 metal ribs are responsible for the rigidity of the fixation, and a double elastic tie additionally holds the device on the back. The functions of Trives T-1555 are stabilization, moderate fixation of the lumbosacral region, relief of muscles from stress, supporting parts of the spine, and prevention of pain. The list of indications includes almost all back diseases, pain of various etiologies, the recovery period after injuries, operations, compensation of supporting function in the case of single intervertebral hernias. Available in sizes from XS to XXL.

Advantages

• Prevention of spinal diseases;
• Breathable materials;
• Anti-pain effect;
• Wide list of indications;
• Elasticity of bandage fabric;
• High fixing characteristics.

Flaws

• Not for long-term wear;
• Only black color.

Reviews confirm that this domestic orthopedic corset for the back relieves pain even in difficult cases. It fastens well thanks to the double clasp, and the metal ribs practically do not press when put on according to the instructions. The downside is that Trives T-1555 is not suitable for constant wear, and is also available only in black.

Ecoten PRR-125

Lumbosacral orthopedic corset with semi-rigid fixation, 25 cm high. Made of breathable, moisture-wicking materials with a high cotton content. We are talking about a hypoallergenic model with optimal compression properties that does not cause irritation due to friction with the skin. It is presented in a neutral gray shade, so it can be worn by women and men. For reliable back support, the design contains 4 stiffening ribs. Thanks to its anatomical shape, the bandage fits your body so that it remains invisible under clothing. The product has been tested, confirming compliance with the international standard EN ISO 13485:2016. The instructions of the decree include a large list of diseases, the need for moderate restraint, rehabilitation and prevention of disorders. Suitable for waist sizes from 65 to 140 cm.

Advantages

• Wear resistance;
• Moisture- and breathable materials;
• Hypoallergenic;
• Anatomical shape;
• Optimal compression;
• Compliance with international quality standards;
• Wide range of sizes.

Flaws

• Over time, pellets appear on the fabric;
• There is not enough information in the instructions.

A semi-rigid product in demand on the Russian market due to the hypoallergenic nature of the materials, which allow moisture and air to pass through. Cotton areas are adjacent to the skin, which prevents irritation. This is also due to the availability of all sizes, proven effectiveness. The downside is that some buyers note weak instructions, as well as the appearance of pilling on the fabric as they are worn.

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Medi Lumbamed Basic

Innovative lumbar bandage with spring ribs responsible for its rigidity. They guarantee a tight fit without discomfort, this is facilitated by the special design of the fasteners. Unlike previous nominees, the putting on process is much easier here thanks to ergonomic loops. Compression has side effects of massage, increasing the therapeutic potential of the product. It is used both to prevent disorders due to excessive load, and to support the back in case of existing diseases. In addition, this model can be worn all day, as it does not put undue pressure on the internal organs. It is advisable to remove it during prolonged passive positions, sitting, lying down, or during sleep. Swimming and water procedures are allowed with the bandage. It sits most securely on a naked body.

Advantages

• Reliable manufacturer;
• Ease of use;
• No time restrictions on wearing;
• Spring ribs;
• Swimming allowed;
• High therapeutic potential.

Flaws

• Price;
• Difficulties with acquisition.

The modern German-made model has received a lot of positive reviews, over 90%. Buyers note the ease of putting on, the absence of discomfort even with prolonged wear, ergonomics, and the prevention of back pain. The downside is that such a product is not available in a regular orthopedic store or pharmacy, and its price is several times higher than that of many analogues.

How to choose an orthopedic lumbosacral corset?

Strong hold corset

How to find out?

The main thing in such a corset is the powerful, usually metal inserts in the back area.

Most often, they are already bent in a factory manner along the curves of the lumbar and sacrum. And they can be moderately elastic. In this case, they will “sit” according to the figure when the patient puts on the corset and fixes it on the stomach. If there are additional elastic straps, they will tighten the corset even better to the body, providing a strong hold.

The material of such corsets can be different: thick fabric or knitted fabric.

To whom and when to offer it?

♥ When the doctor writes this on the prescription sheet: strong fixation corset.

♥ When the patient experiences pain in the lower back so severe that he cannot even straighten up.

♥ When this pain radiates to the leg, buttock, groin area.

♥ When the tips of the toes feel nothing, or there is severe weakness in the legs.

How does it work?

♥ Fixes and unloads the damaged segment. That is, it reduces movement in it, which means it creates favorable conditions for recovery. Sometimes our body just needs to get out of the way. Only peace and care.

♥ By fixing and protecting the lower back, the corset takes on most of its work. Again, there is unloading and a reduction in recovery time.

What's better?

Favorite question from our customers. That's why I can't ignore it.

♥ A fabric corset is cheaper.

♥ A corset made of knitted fabric is more comfortable. Thanks to it, the skin “breathes”; it is not hot in such a corset. In addition, knitwear fits better to the figure. This means that the therapeutic effect is higher. And it comes faster.

Such corsets usually look more aesthetically pleasing. They can be worn on a naked body (fabric ones on a T-shirt). They are thinner and therefore invisible under clothing.

Medium fixation corset

How to find out?

Unlike the previous one, this corset has softer, that is, more flexible, stiffening ribs. Thanks to them, movements in the lumbosacral region are possible to a greater extent than in the case of strong fixation corsets.

The material is most often elastic. Its degree of elasticity varies in different models.

If there are additional belts, then, firstly, they enhance the fit. Secondly, they help regulate the degree of fit when changing body position.

To whom and when?

♥ When a patient experiences dull aching pain in the lower back.

♥ When you need a corset to protect your lower back when performing household work (repairs, cottages, etc.).

♥ When the doctor prescribed a medium fixation corset.

♥ For after-care after injuries and operations at the late stage of rehabilitation.

How does it work?

The corset reduces the range of motion of the problem area of ​​the spine. And if so, it means that it is unloaded, and it recovers many times faster than without a corset.

Warming corset

Perhaps you have these in your assortment. If not, be sure to order it, as the pharmacy often asks for something warming for the lower back. By offering an ordinary belt made from the fur of some animal, we deprive the buyer of the opportunity to purchase a more effective product that will reduce pain in the first minutes of wearing.

This is a warming belt This is a heat-saving corset

So, a warming corset. It would be more correct to say “heat-saving”. Because there is no battery in it.

How to find out?

Firstly, the packaging may say that this is a warming corset.

Secondly, it may be indicated that it is made of neoprene - a material that does not allow air and moisture to pass through. Due to this, it conserves its own body heat.

Sometimes these corsets have a special cushion to “fill” the lumbar curve for maximum fit. If the bend is not sufficiently pronounced, the pillow is removed.

To whom and when?

♥ To those who ask for a “warming” belt. In this case, you offer a corset and explain that it not only “warms”, but also quickly eliminates pain due to its design.

♥ For those who complain of constant aching pain due to osteochondrosis, spondylosis, that is, diseases associated with malnutrition of the spine.

♥ For those who work in the cold and want to get rid of back pain. For example, security guards. Moreover, we are talking about work not related to active movements.

Will explain. If you give this corset to some construction worker who is constantly on the move, he will sweat in it. This may cause skin irritation.

Neither the buyer nor we need this.

How does it work?

Due to the fact that the material does not allow air and moisture to pass through, it retains body heat, warming the problem area of ​​the spine. This improves blood circulation, nutrition, and the patient recovers faster.

In addition, heat relieves muscle tension, which is often the cause of back pain. Tension goes away and pain decreases.

Important!

♥ Considering the above, it is recommended to wear it no more than 4 hours at a time. Then you need to take a break, let the skin “breathe”, and you can put it on again.

♥ This corset cannot be recommended for tumor processes (for example, fibroids in women), so do not be lazy to find out this from the buyer.

♥ This corset cannot be recommended for acute inflammatory processes.

There is a rule in medicine: Do not heat inflammation!

If you don’t know what kind of process this is, focus on the time frame from the onset of the disease (it’s better to abstain from such a corset for the first 3-5-7 days).

What's better?

Everyone has their own understanding of “better.” Here are a few nuances:

♥ Corsets made of knitted fabric are more comfortable. All their advantages - see above. Some of these models may have a minimum of hard elements, but there is a massage pillow.

Thanks to it, during movements the sore spot is massaged, which means muscle tension and pain are relieved, blood circulation improves, and the recovery period is reduced.

♥ If the corset has suspenders, it is convenient for motorists. The man got into his car, unfastened his corset, it rested on his shoulders and did not fall off.

♥ If the material in the corset is thin, it means it is not noticeable under clothes.

♥ If the material is mesh, it means that the skin under it will not sweat.

The best thoracolumbar orthopedic corsets

The most commonly used are thoracolumbar braces. There are posture corrector orthoses, pain relief due to scoliosis, thoracolumbosacral corsets for absolute fixation of the entire spinal column, clavicular orthoses for the treatment of clavicle fractures or injuries. Products for sale include medium and hard fixation, as well as separate models for adults or children. Experts selected the leaders based on the percentage of positive reviews, demand and recommendations from doctors.

Crate B-506

The product can be used as an orthopedic corset for posture for children, as well as for adults, depending on the choice of size. Its two stiffening ribs are located along the spinal column, two more are transformed according to the shape of the back. The design is intended to fix and stabilize the spine, reducing the load on it and the muscle corset. Regular use leads to dilation of the shoulder girdle, which has a positive effect on posture. The basis is a high-strength polymer mesh; in the abdominal area, the corset is adjacent to hypoallergenic cotton panels. Thanks to the soft straps, there is no risk of chafing in the armpit area. The degree of fixation can be adjusted using a double tie and an additional element of Velcro tape. The instructions contain a large list of indications, including diseases of the musculoskeletal system, any posture disorders, and periods of rehabilitation. The size range starts from a waist circumference of 45-55 cm and up to 100-120 cm.

Advantages

• Well thought out design;
• Hypoallergenic materials;
• Reliability of fastening;
• Additional screed element;
• Large list of indications;
• For children, adults;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws

• For home use only;
• Inaccuracy with dimensions.

Quite a popular manufacturer due to its wide range of models and availability. This product is approved by about 90% of buyers for its price, convenient design, reliability of fastening and the ability to actually correct posture.

The corset cannot be hidden under clothes, so it can only be worn at home. Also, some write about the importance of trying on, since some sizes run small.

Comf-Ort K-614

The product is in the form of a belt with a medium degree of fixation, made of a special mesh material that allows the skin to breathe. The composition contains 2 materials - polyamide, polyester. Elasticity and flexibility make the model wear-resistant. Metal ribs in the amount of 4 pieces are responsible for the reliability of fastening. Additionally, 2 fixation tapes made of medical elastic are provided. Correct use stabilizes and relieves the lower thoracic, lumbar and sacral areas. The bandage must be worn on a naked body, although the use of cotton clothing on top is allowed. The list of indications includes all common back diseases - osteoporosis, spondylosis, lumbodynia, ischalgia, etc. Doctors also recommend the model during the rehabilitation period after operations or injuries.

Advantages

• Functionality;
• Comfort;
• Pain relief;
• Wear resistance;
• Reliable fixation;
• Price.

Flaws

• Marriage occurs;
• Not for constant wear.

The latest model is gaining momentum in terms of demand and positive feedback. Users emphasize ease of use, accessibility, simple and convenient design. The downside is that the corset cannot be worn all the time. In rare cases, marriage occurs.

How to choose a thoracolumbar corset

The corset can be used in many situations: when your back hurts,

when posture is poor, with chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system, as well as after surgery or injury. In addition to treatment, orthoses are also used to prevent diseases, and also lighten the load on the spine, help it take an anatomically correct position, improving blood circulation.

An orthopedic specialist will always help you choose the right type and size of the product. But it is important to follow the following rules:

• choose the size correctly, guided by the recommendations of the orthopedist and your own feelings;
• The device must be worn on a naked body while standing;
• you need to follow a wearing schedule: up to three hours a day, after getting used to it – up to six, observing an hour interval between wearing sessions;
• do not choose models of your own free will, only on the recommendation of a specialist;
• Always remove the orthosis when sleeping.

How to put on a corset

When the treatment is prescribed, the model is tried on and purchased, the patient is faced with the task of putting on the orthosis correctly. The donning procedure is very important, and if done incorrectly, wearing the product becomes hazardous to health.

The process is actually quite simple, but this is precisely why many people neglect to follow the rules of putting on.

First, you need to remove clothes above the waist: for girls, down to their underwear, for men - completely; if you have underwear, you can put it on it, and in winter you can wear it over a light T-shirt. Secondly, take the orthosis in your hands and start putting it on: throw it over the body without fastening it. Thirdly, fasten one by one: first the main fastener or Velcro, then the side ones, and it is strictly forbidden to tighten it too much - blood circulation will be impaired. After putting on a corset, you need to focus on the sensations for some time: if you feel discomfort, then you need to take it off, rest and put it on again.

Models of thoracolumbar corsets

Modern medicine provides different variations of corsets for different situations. Each option corresponds to its purpose, which is why when choosing an orthosis you need to use the doctor’s recommendations.

There are the following types of corsets:

1. Semi-rigid. It affects muscle and bone tissue, while partially fixing the spine. Its function is to reduce pain and stress on the spine by distributing the load and improving tone. The design consists of 2-6 ribs, and the rigidity provided by the device is proportional to their number.
2. Hard. The rigid orthosis model is used in cases of severe spinal injuries. Provides complete fixation and immobilizes. Thus, the process of improving the patient’s condition is accelerated significantly.
3. Thoracolumbar-sacral. A variation similar to a simple semi-rigid one, but the area of ​​action extends not only to the thoracic and lumbar spine, but also to the sacral spine. It turns out that such a corset affects the entire back, from the middle of the thighs to the neck. Stiffening ribs are located along the entire orthosis, repeating the anatomical shape of the body of the person who wears it.
4. Individual. Created specifically to order, for special occasions. Such a corset is extremely rare, because, basically, a suitable model is always found for the patient, while an individual one is made at a time, using a cast and observing the buyer’s dimensions.

Which corset to choose

To choose the right type and size of product for yourself, you need to know some factors, namely: chest girth, and if the patient is a woman, then measurements are taken under the chest, because a corset is not worn on it, the circumference of the lower back is also taken into account, in special cases - hip girth.

Selecting the right model begins with the orthopedic office. The doctor conducts an examination and listens to the patient’s complaints, after which a recommendation is given that determines the type of corset.

Knowing which model is needed, the patient himself takes the necessary measurements and goes to the store, pharmacy or orthopedic salon. The last option is the most desirable, since prices are closer to cost, there is always the possibility of trying on and a wide selection. Next, the size is selected and, if possible, fitting is carried out. It is important to choose the size and model that is most comfortable for you.

Under what circumstances should you not use a corset?

A thoracolumbar corset is a product that has a therapeutic effect and is prescribed only by a doctor. Like other similar drugs, it has contraindications and conditions for prescription.

Wearing a corset is intended to eliminate problems associated with the musculoskeletal system: scoliosis, back pain in the lumbar region, displaced intervertebral discs, muscular dystrophy and other diseases.

An orthosis is a truly useful device that can help a person suffering from pain caused due to back problems or diseases of the musculoskeletal system. But, as with wearing any other orthopedic product, there are contraindications to using corsets:

• allergy to the materials from which the corset is made;
• dermatological diseases and unhealed wounds;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or kidneys.

A specialist will never prescribe wearing an orthosis to a patient for whom it is not suitable. In such cases, it is necessary to search for alternative options, which modern medicine is full of.

The first and main concern of a person is his health, which should never be neglected.
It is important to understand that everyone is personally responsible for themselves, which means you need to know when and what means to use, and competent doctors will always help with this. Author: K.M.N., Academician of the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences M.A. Bobyr

Which orthopedic corset is better to buy?

All products presented in the top list have undergone repeated clinical studies and were tested by orthopedic doctors. In addition to proven effectiveness, they have their own unique advantages, as well as minor disadvantages. Based on this information, the following conclusions can be drawn:

• Oppo Medical AccuTex 2950 – stabilizing corset with a soft degree of fixation;
• Crate B-506 – orthopedic corset for women, men, children;
• Ecoten PRR-125 is a hypoallergenic product made from moisture- and breathable materials;
• Medi Lumbamed Basic - an innovative bandage for constant wear;
• Comf-Ort K-614 – maximum comfort, best value for money.

What to buy from the names declared by experts should be decided solely by the attending physician. He is competent in making a diagnosis, assessing the degree of neglect of disorders, selecting the right type of bandage, degree of fixation and compression. Self-medication is unacceptable, as it entails serious risks.