An Improved Numerical Model to Predict the Skin Pressure Exerted by Compression Stockings

In this study a numerical model of compression stockings was developed to enhance the understanding of skin pressure distribution during the wearing of compression stockings. The wearing process of stockings was simulated using a finite element (FE) model of a human leg, which consist of cortical bone, soft tissue and skin, and compression stocking. A three-dimensional finite element stress analysis of the forces and displacement was performed. The patterns of von Mises stress in the soft tissue and bony structures are predicted using our finite element model. From the simulation results, the highest contact pressure on the skin was at the ankle region. The predicted results of the old model are more precise than the compared model.