Compression Stockings and Socks
What are they?
Compression stockings and socks are made from elasticated nylon blends. Their purpose is to put pressure on the legs to relieve swelling and to promote the flow of blood and fluid up and out of the legs.
In addition, they work by creating a pressure gradient between the ankle and the calf or the thigh. This pressure gradient helps the blood flow or fluid from the ankle up the leg and then eventually back to the heart.
People will often put their socks or stockings on in the morning when their legs are less swollen and then take them off later in the day.
Types of compression
Different grades and styles
Following on from this, medical-grade compression is best.
Most are German or Swiss made and the manufacture of the stockings and socks are at a high level. As a result, this means quality fabric, reliable compression levels and good wear-and-tear. Moreover, less expensive brands do not reliably meet these standards.
Below-knee stockings or socks are suitable for most people. In pregnancy, and for some people with lymphoedema, lipoedema, following extensive blood clots or after surgery or varicose vein treatment, thigh-length stockings will be recommended.
What are the levels of compression?
The three compression levels are in numerals: I-III.
Level 1 has the lowest compression, level 2 is midway, with level 3 the highest.
Most people are fine with compression-level 1 stockings or socks, because this gives a good balance between comfort and therapeutic results.
Our trained vascular nurses will first assess your needs, measure you and then arrange the type and level of compression right for you and your condition.
Who benefits most from wearing compression stockings and socks?
People who have any of the following conditions or situations may benefit from wearing this type of compression:
- Varicose veins
- Travellers
- Those with standing or sedentary occupations
- Pregnancy
- Surgery
- Others with previous DVT and blood clots
- Leg ulcers
- Lyphoedema
- Those with Oedema and lymphoedema symptoms
- Lipoedema.
