Choosing Compression Stockings

How to Choose Your Compression Stockings


Wearing compression stockings and garments can be medically essential, especially for preventing or helping heal serious medical conditions. They can also provide comfort, better circulation, and even better sports performance.

What Do Compression Stockings Do?

Basically, compression garments providing improvement for your blood flow and circulation. Additionally, the will help reduce pain and swelling in the lower extremities. They can also help lower your risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other such serious medical condition.

Compression stockings are snug fitting leggings or garments that provide a gently squeezing sensation. Some compression stockings, called graduated stockings, provide more tightness at the ankle area, with the pressure loosening as they rise further up the leg.

Choosing the Best Compression Stockings

You will find that compression socks, leggings, and sleeves come in different lengths. Most leg compression gear starts just below the leg; however, you can find thigh high stockings and even full leg tights.

Compression stockings also are offered in different pressure levels. This pressure is measured in mmHg. It is important that your stockings have a snug feeling, but not tight enough to cause any pain.

If you stand for long periods of time, a mild or lower pressure garment is one of the best compression stocking choices. If you are preventing serious vein issues such as DVT, a firm fit is a better choice. Additionally, compression garments for anti-embolisms are chosen when you are on bed rest, such as after surgery. Graduated compression garments are a good choice if you are allowed to walk around after surgery.

If compression stockings are indicated for medical reasons, your physician will prescribe or select the best compression socks for you. Additionally, your physician will also measure you for the best fit for your individual condition.

In addition, your physician will provide instructions on the proper wearing of these stockings. Instructions may include making sure that they lay flat against your legs and not bunch up. Compression stockings should also not be rolled or folded as this may cause them to become too tight and cause circulation issues.

St. Louis Laser Vein Center

Dr. Thomas Wright of the St. Louis Laser Vein Center understands the importance of compression stockings for patients suffering from vein disease. He and his staff are very experienced in providing the best compression stockings for your individual case. If you have questions about buying compression stockings or garments, even for better sports performance, please give us a call.