What type of compression stockings do i need

Tension in compression stockings is measured in millimeters of mercury mmHg. In general, pressure of less than 20 mmHg is considered low compression while 20 to 30 mmHg is medium compression. Pressure that exceeds 30 mmHg is deemed high compression. Graduated compression stockings.

Canadian Medical Association Journal. Low pressure can help mild swelling and aching legs or feet, while medium compression can treat varicose veins and sports injuries. Seniors often find compression in the 20 to 30 mmHg range to be helpful. High compression is used for conditions like severe edema, deep vein thrombosis, serious wounds and lymphedema, and anything over 30 mmHg typically requires a prescription, so talk to your doctor.

You can find compression stockings in knee-high, thigh-high and full-length styles. Most people find that knee-high socks are easier to put on. The length that works best for you will depend on your needs. In general, though, most common leg conditions can benefit from knee-high compression socks, while thigh-high compression socks are typically used to treat severe varicose veins and other conditions that extend above the knee.

These can put you at risk for wounds. You can find compression stockings at several price points. You can find compression socks at online retailers , pharmacies, medical supply stores and stores that focus on comfort footwear. Be sure to check with your insurance provider on what your coverage includes.

You might be able to use health savings account HSA or flexible spending account FSA funds to pay for prescription compression socks, so be sure to ask your provider. Compression socks can be trickier to put on and require a little more TLC than a standard pair of socks. Here are a few helpful hints from Vascular Cures, a non-profit organization that promotes resources for vascular disease:. Tools like metal frames, called donners, and nonslip gloves can make it easier to put compression socks on and take them off.

We always want to be doing more good than harm. She also recommends having more than one pair of compression socks so you can wash one and wear one simultaneously. Hand washing and air drying help make the elastic last longer. Low and medium-pressure socks are available without a prescription.

You can find them online at retailers like Zappos and Bombas. Stores that specialize in comfort footwear are a good place to shop as well. Get your doctor involved to prevent long-term problems. If you only really need comfort in your feet, a low-rise compression sock should suffice. These can work great under work clothes because they are subtle and snuggly fit under pants but maximize comfort throughout the day.

The key to gaining the most benefit from the specially designed stocking is in how to choose compression socks with the right compression ratings to address your needs. If you are wearing compression socks to treat certain medical conditions, it is crucial to follow what you doctor prescribes. A good rule of thumb to follow when choosing compression sock levels for recreational and leisure purposes is to err towards the lower-compression level range of 15 — 20 mmHg.

This level of compression is usually fit for providing comfort in daily leisure activities and sports recovery. If you are engaging with more high-intensity activities or need to manage mild symptoms of discomfort, the next range of 20 — 30 mmHg is typically a safe bet. Luckily, PRO Compression has a wide selection of compression socks that fall within the most popular range of compression socks.

You can find socks between the 15 — 30 mmHg range to fit most of your compression treatment needs. For specific medical conditions, consult with your doctor on the exact compression level for you. After figuring out the specific function, type and compression level you need from a sock, the final step in how to choose compression socks lies within the fit.

A good rule of thumb to follow is:. If you are looking for compression stockings, you have the option of a compression sock or stocking. To further customize which type of compression stocking is right for you, you also have a wide range of options when it comes to style and material.

Do you require help choosing the right compression stocking for you? Our team has the knowledge and expertise to help you make the most informed and safest choice.

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Clostridium Botulinum is a bacteria readily found in natural settings including lakes,…. You can wear your compression socks all day by putting them on when getting dressed in the morning, and take them off before bed unless your doctor advises otherwise. You may need to get used to wearing compression socks but, if they fit correctly, they should not be painful or overly bothersome to wear for most or all of the day. You should buy at least two pairs of compression socks so that you can wash and dry them between each use, just like any other socks or stockings.

If you have concerns about the blood flow in your legs, start by talking to your primary care provider. They can evaluate your circulation and can refer you to a vascular specialist if you need more specialized treatment.

Or, contact Riverside Vascular Specialists directly to make an appointment with a vascular specialist in our Newport News, Williamsburg or Gloucester clinics. Heart and Vascular Compression socks: What are they and who needs them?

Compression socks basics You can purchase compression socks at most pharmacies, big box stores and many online retailers. There are three main types of compression socks or stockings: Graduated compression stockings : With this type of compression stocking, the compression is strongest at the ankle and decreases up toward the knee.