The level of compression for compression socks and stockings tells us how much support the sock or stocking is providing to the leg. The compression level is always a range of numbers. This is to indicate the amount of support does not drop below the lower number and does not exceed the higher number. The unit of measure, mmHg stands for “millimeters of mercury”, which is also what blood pressure is measured in.
Compression stockings are available in many levels of compression. A 15-20 mmHg (read, “fifteen to twenty millimeters of mercury”) compression stocking is great for daily wear, sports and travel. The support that a 15-20 mmHg sock provides addresses minor leg symptoms such as tired, achy and lightly swollen ankles and legs. The 20-30 mmHg and 30-40 mmHg level of compression provides more support and thus addresses more leg health issues such as swelling, edema, spider veins, varicose veins and blood clots.
All of the compression stockings at Leg Smart are graduated, which means that the amount of compression at the ankle is the strongest and gets lighter up the leg. This increases circulation by preventing blood from slowing down when traveling up the veins to return to the heart and lungs.
List of Indications for Compression Stockings
15-20 mmHg
Heavy, fatigued, tired legs.
Mild swelling of ankles during pregnancy.
Mild swelling of ankles after long periods of standing or sitting.
Tired, achy and swollen feet and ankles during travel.
20-30 mmHg
Heavy, fatigued, tired, aching legs.
Mild varicosities during pregnancy.
Mild varicosities and minimal edema (swelling).
Recovery post-surgery for vein procedures.
During recovery period, post-surgery for swelling in the leg due to inactivity.
30-40 mmHg
Moderate to severe varicosities with mild edema during pregnancy.
Mild varicosities and moderate edema.
Post fracture, post traumatic edema.
After sclerotherapy or phlebectomy of larger veins or vein stripping to maintain treatment success.
Venous ulcers.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Post Thrombatic Syndrome.
Mild primary lymphedema after decongestant therapy to maintain reduction, secondary lymphedema.
40-50 mmHg
Severe varicosities and edema.
Venous ulcers.
Moderate to severe lymphedema.
This article is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions about your health, please contact your doctor.