Physiological Response and Comfort Sensory Perception towards Physical-Mechanical Performance of Compression Hosiery Textiles

Abstract

The purpose of the present study is to determine thepsycho-physiological effects of physical-mechanical properties ofcompression hosieries (CHs) with different pressure levels andlongitudinal gradient distribution profiles on the wearing comfortperception and blood circulation performance of the lower extremities invivo. The mechanical properties of CHs (tensile, shearing, and bending)significant), influencing pressure level performances have beeninstrumentally estimated. Blood circulation as the main physiologicalparameter was investigated along the long and short saphenous veins(LSV, SSV) and popliteal veins (PopV) of a total of 24 lower extremitiesof twelve healthy females subjects by using Colour Doppler Ultrasoundequipment in conjunction with four-hour subjective wear trials in acontrolled environmental chamber. The study demonstrated that themechanical properties of CHs fabric produced gradient variations alonghosiery hose and among pressure levels. The compression applied by CHsand testing time exerted statistically significant influences on thevenous anatomy and circulation of lower limbs. The skin pressuresapplied by CHs significantly decreased the cross-sectional areas (VA),and increased the mean flow velocities (VP(mean)) of the PopV by15.70%, 29.80%. 31.30% and 24.20%, respectively. Wearing comfort andacceptance degree significantly correlated with mechanical quality ofCHs textiles. Light and mild compression by CHs provides the subjectsmore comfort sensory perception for long-term wearing period. Theapplication of CHs textiles appears to be effective in achieving areduction of venous dilation and improvement of blood circulation in thelower extremities when wearers lack of physical activities. The fabricswith lower elasticity and higher bending rigidity properties producedhigher pressure; while no significant differences in increasing bloodcirculation was found among mild, moderate, and strong pressure levels.An illustrative plot represents the integrative relationships betweenmultiple materials physical-mechanical properties, pressure performance,and resultant physiological responses and subjective comfort sensoryperception, which provide a reference for product designer and physicianin development and application of comfort and functional compressionhosiery textiles.