How Are Compression Socks Rated

Compression stockings have a range of numbers to indicate how much graduated compression the garment has The standard compression levels for compression stockings are 15-20 mmHg (over the counter), 20-30 mmHg (medical class 1), 30-40 mmHg (medical class 2) and 40-50 mmHg (medical class 3)

What does 15-20 mmHg mean for compression socks?

MmHg stands for millimeters of mercury and it indicates the level of pressure or compression 15-20 mmHg: Also for minor and occasional swelling This is the range most often recommended for reducing swelling and preventing DVT (blood clots) during travel Often recommended during pregnancy to prevent edema

What strength compression stockings do I need?

If you’re shopping for a compression sock without a prescription, you will likely want either the 8-15 mmHg or 15-20 mmHg compression level This level of compression is usually sufficient to treat the most common issues like achiness, swelling, tiredness, and mild varicose veins in the legs

What is the difference between class1 and Class 2 compression stockings?

Class 1 stockings (light compression) exert an ankle pressure of 14–17 mmHg Class 2 stockings (medium compression) exert an ankle pressure of 18–24 mmHg Class 3 stockings (high compression) exert an ankle pressure of 25–35 mmHg

What does compression sock rating mean?

Basically, the greater the compression level, or compression strength, the tighter the compression stocking These levels are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) It’s the same scale used to take your blood pressure Graduated compression socks are tighter at the ankle than they are at the top

What does 20 30 mmHg mean in compression stockings?

Compression levels are indicated with a range of numbers like “20-30 mmHg”, which means that the amount of compression will not fall below 20 mmHg and not exceed 30 mmHg The unit of measurement is called “millimeters of mercury” which is a measurement of pressure, also used in blood pressure

Which brand of compression socks are best?

Here are the best compression socks: Best overall: CEP Progressive+ Compression Run Socks 20 Best on a budget: SB Sox Lite Compression Socks Best circulation support: Sockwell Elevation Graduated Compression Socks Best for post-workout: Zensah Tech+ Compression Socks Best for runners: Swiftkick Aspire Twelve

How many hours a day should you wear compression stockings?

Although it’s not harmful to wear compression stockings 24 hours a day, it’s also not necessary unless your doctor advises explicitly so as to prevent open sores As mentioned earlier, sitting or standing for extended periods of time during the day will cause blood to pool in your veins

What compression socks do doctors recommend?

“I usually recommend a lighter compression, like 10 to 15 or 15 to 20, to begin with, and for more moderate to severe swelling, we start to go up in numbers, such as 20 to 30 or 30 to 40, which should be a custom fit and prescribed by a doctor,” Dr Parthasarathy says

When should you not wear compression stockings?

“If you have peripheral vascular disease affecting your lower extremities, you should not wear compression socks,” he says “The pressure provided by compression socks may make ischemic disease worse

Do you need to be measured for compression stockings?

For thigh-high compression stockings, take a thigh measurement at the widest part of your thigh For these stockings, the leg length should be taken from the bottom of the heel to the crease of the buttocks For waist-high hosiery or compression pantyhose, you’ll need to measure your hip circumference as well

Do I need a prescription for compression stockings?

Compression stockings with a small amount of compression are sold without a prescription Stronger compression stockings are prescribed by your care provider with certain specifications — such as strength of compression and length of stocking — based on the condition being treated

How often should you replace compression stockings?

Proper care will increase the lifespan of your compression socks, but elastic fibers will inevitably break down with wear over time Depending on frequency of use, you will need to replace your compression socks every 3-6 months to ensure the right level of compression is still being applied

What does mmHg mean?

Blood pressure is measured in units of millimeters of mercury (mmHg)

What are different types of compression socks?

The three primary types of compression stockings are: graduated compression stockings anti-embolism stockings nonmedical support hosiery

What are the side effects of compression stockings?

Best practices for compression socks Here are some best practices for safely wearing compression socks: Get your compression socks fitted properly by a professional

Can compression socks cause blood clots?

Botek also says that another common reason for wearing compression socks is to aid in blood flow when you’re sitting for long periods of time, like a long flight With less movement and weaker circulation, there’s more pooling and retention of blood in the legs which can raise chances of clots

Is it OK to wear compression socks everyday?

As most doctors recommend wearing compression socks every day for maximum benefit, you will need to wash them every day, as well This is important not only for your own hygiene, but also for the life of your stockings As you wear your stockings throughout the day, they stretch to fit your legs

Is it better to wear compression socks at night or during the day?

You should wear your compression stockings during the day and take them off before going to bed Put them on again first thing in the morning You should be given at least 2 stockings, or 2 pairs if you’re wearing them on both legs This means you can wear 1 stocking (or pair) while the other is being washed and dried

Should you wear compression socks while walking?

Wearing compression stockings while exercising is not contraindicated and in some cases, even recommended Wearing your compression stockings while exercising is not contraindicated and in some cases, even recommended

Do compression socks improve circulation?

Compression socks can improve circulation and fight swelling and discomfort Good circulation is one of the most important parts of your health This simple technology can help fight swelling and discomfort, and may also reduce the risk of developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a clot that forms in the deep veins