A users guide to the advantages of compression.

What is compression and what compression is right for you?

These are meant as general guidelines, the severity of a certain issue will help determine the level of compression needed. You should talk to your doctor about which compression level is right for you.

 

8-15 mmHg - the lightest form of compression, which is great for energizing your legs. These types of socks provide relief from tired and achy legs. They also help control minor swelling by gently enhancing circulation in the legs. This level is also referred to as light compression.

  • Mildly aching and tired legs
  • Support and comfort for either standing or sitting for long periods
  • When just a little support is needed for general health and energy


15-20 mmHg - provides relief from minor to moderate swelling, aching, and varicose veins, especially during pregnancy. They are great for preventing deep vein thrombosis (or economy class syndrome) while traveling, but they’re also good for anyone who stands or sits for long periods of time. This level is also referred to as medium compression.

  • Slightly more support, offering day-to-day relief from achy, heavy, slightly swollen legs
  • Extra support on busy, active days, or when traveling
  • An aid for enhanced circulation, especially in the legs
  • During pregnancy, they can help prevent varicose and spider veins


20-30 mmHg - offers moderate compression and can be used to treat a variety of mild to moderate conditions. This level can provide relief from varicose veins, edema, deep vein thrombosis, and post-sclerotherapy. This level is also referred to as Class I or firm compression.

  • The most commonly prescribed compression level by doctors
  • Used to help a variety of minor to moderate medical conditions
  • Used to help chronically painful, heavily fatigued legs
  • Helpful in the treatment of varicose veins
  • Relief from the swelling associated with mild edema
  • Used in combination with elective surgical procedures such as sclerotherapy and phlebectomy
  • Used to help treat orthostatic/postural hypotension, a form of low blood pressure


30-40 mmHg - often prescribed to provide relief from severe edema, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis. They’re also prescribed for post-sclerotherapy and to heal active venous stasis ulcers. This level is also referred to as Class II or extra firm compression.

  • Relief from moderate and severe edema and lymphedema
  • Helps prevent and relieve more serious cases of varicose veins
  • Used in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and post thrombotic syndrome
  • Can help heal active venous stasis ulcers
  • Used after bone fractures and orthopedic surgeries
  • Used to treat phlebitis
  • Used in treating skin changes with healed ulceration


40-50 mmHg - the highest level of compression and should only be worn if prescribed by a doctor. This level is typically used to treat chronic venous insufficiency and post-thrombotic syndrome. Your doctor might refer to this level as Class III.

  • Used as part of the treatment for chronic venous insufficiency
  • Used for the most severe cases of DVT and post thrombotic syndrome
  • Used in treating severe skin changes with active ulceration