How do I know what strength compression socks to get?

Which one do I pick? The general rule of thumb is to ask yourself where the affected area is on your legs. If you have swelling only in your ankles, then a knee high sock should be sufficient. If you have swelling on or above the knee, consider a thigh high or pantyhose / waist high compression stocking.

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.

What number is best for compression socks?

“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.

How many hours a day should you wear compression socks?

Depending on your need, you can consider wearing them all day long (though you should take them off before bed), or just for a few hours at a time. Compression socks can be helpful for many people, but you should still talk to your doctor before making them a part of your health care routine.

What is a good mmHg for compression stockings?

Step 1: Choose The Compression Level

A good rule of thumb to follow is: 15-20 mmHg: Great for daily wear, travel, and sports. They help improve circulation without being too tight. 20-30 mmHg: Great for sports recovery, daily wear, medical recovery, and to manage mild symptoms of varicose and spider veins.

What are lowest compression socks?

The lowest level of compression is between 8 and 15 mmHg. It’s a good level of compression if you’re just looking for something to help with tired, achy legs. They help to gently enhance circulation in your legs to control minor swelling and generally energize the area.

Can I elevate my legs while wearing compression socks?

Elevate your legs whenever you’re lying down. The legs should be raised so they’re above your heart. You may want to place a pillow under your legs to make it more comfortable.

Can compression stockings cause blood clots?

Similar to how a tourniquet works, the blood flow is hindered. In such situations, the stocking may become the cause of a blood clot, rather than a preventative measure. Compression stockings that are fitted incorrectly, such as too small, rolled, or folded over, may cause excessive irritation to the skin.

Is it OK to wear compression socks to bed?

“When you’re lying down, you take away the effect of gravity. So there’s no reason to wear compression socks when lying down or sleeping.” Compression socks shouldn’t be uncomfortably tight. Still, it feels good to take them off and give your legs a break.

How do I know if compression socks are working?

You can expect that a graduated compression sock will be firm around your ankle but that it will let up in pressure, the higher you go up the leg. Your socks shouldn’t feel painfully tight. If you’re wearing a mild compression sock, the numbers will be lower.

How long does it take for compression socks to reduce swelling?

However, it may take several days of regular use to enjoy a noticeable reduction in swelling. For best results, put on your compression garment first thing in the morning. This is when your limbs are the least swollen. Visible improvement in the appearance of your veins can take up to six weeks to see.

Do compression socks help if your feet are already swollen?

If you often suffer from swollen feet and have wondered whether compression socks could help you, the answer is a resounding yes! This can come as good news to you, especially if you fly a lot, are on your feet for a large portion of the day or you are pregnant and suffer from swollen feet.

What does the mmHg mean in compression socks?

millimeters of mercury
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.

Can tight socks cut circulation?

The tight band at the top of socks can, indeed, effect your circulation. Compressing your calf can close off arteries providing blood to the foot. This can lead to intense pain after walking for a period of time and only alleviated by rest. It also can increase the possibility of complications such as skin ulcers.

Is it normal for compression socks to leave indentations?

Sock marks on your legs are very common. Most socks contain elastic to keep them from slipping down. Pressure from the elastic leaves a mark. The marks may be more noticeable if the soft tissue in your legs is swollen with fluid.

What does 8 15 mmHg mean in compression socks?

Provides very light compression
8-15 mmHg: Provides very light compression. For minor or occasional swelling. Also great for a little extra support if you spend a lot of time on your feet.

Is mm of mercury a unit of pressure?

A millimetre of mercury is a manometric unit of pressure, formerly defined as the extra pressure generated by a column of mercury one millimetre high, and currently defined as exactly 133.322387415 pascals. It is denoted mmHg or mm Hg.

What are moderate compression socks?

Compression Socks Compression Levels
15-20 mmHg [Moderate Compression]30-40mmHg [Extra Firm Compression]
Ideal compression level used for those traveling long distances.Prevents deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also known as economy class syndrome.

What is the strongest compression stocking?

40-50 mmHg Compression Socks and Stockings

Also known as Class III compression, 40-50 mmHg is the highest level of compression we offer. Since its effects can be significant, these stockings should only be worn when prescribed by a doctor.

What do you mean by mmHg?

mmHg. abbreviation for. millimetre(s) of mercury (a unit of pressure equal to the pressure that can support a column of mercury 1 millimetre high)

What is mmHg used for?

MmHg means millimetres of mercury (Hg = mercury) and is used in EU member states and Switzerland to measure the pressure of body fluids, such as eg blood pressure. It goes back to a time when pressure was measured by means of a mercury column.

What is high pressure inHg?

Hg. A barometer reading of 30 inches (Hg) is considered normal. Strong high pressure could register as high as 30.70 inches, whereas low pressure associated with a hurricane can dip below 27.30 inches (Hurricane Andrew had a measured surface pressure of 27.23 just before its landfall in Miami Dade County).