Common Questions About Compression Hosiery

What is compression hosiery?
Who should use compression hosiery?
How long will the compression garment last?
What is an embolism?
How should I wash or launder my compression hosiery?
What type of compression garment should I get?
What size compression garment should I get?
What are gradient compression garments?
What if I only want to wear the sock on one leg?
Do your compression garments contain any Latex?
Who should not use compression hosiery?

What is compression hosiery?

Compression hosiery is specialized medical sock or stocking designed to apply controlled pressure to the legs. The gentle compression helps support vein walls, limit blood pooling, and support circulation in the lower limbs. Many medical brands manufacture compression hosiery, including Jobst, Kendall, and Curamedica.

Who should use compression hosiery?

A physician is the best person to decide whether compression hosiery is appropriate. Compression garments are often recommended for people who have:

Swelling in the legs (edema)
Tired, aching legs, especially after standing
Varicose veins
Venous insufficiency or poor vein function
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
Venous ulcers
Lymphedema

How long will the compression garment last?

Compression garments typically last 3 to 6 months with regular daily use. Over time the fibers lose elasticity and the stocking provides less effective compression. If the garment stretches on very easily or feels loose, it is usually a sign that it should be replaced. The life of the garment can be extended by following the manufacturer's directions for washing and laundering.

What is an embolism?

An embolism is a blockage of a blood vessel, most often caused by a blood clot that has traveled from another part of the body. Compression therapy garments are used to help reduce venous stasis and are often part of a prevention plan for patients who are at risk, as directed by a clinician.

How should I wash or launder my compression hosiery?

Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions. In general, most compression hosiery is hand-washed in cool or lukewarm water with a mild detergent or special stocking solution, then rinsed well and line-dried. Fabric softeners, bleach, and high heat can damage the elastic fibers and shorten the life of the garment.

What type of compression garment should I get?

A prescribing clinician will determine what compression level is best. Compression is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the same unit used for blood pressure. Your physician will probably recommend:

14-17 mmHg: This pressure range is considered "mild" and is generally recommended for tired legs, mild varicose veins, and mild edema.
18-24 mmHg: This pressure range is considered "moderate" and is generally recommended for more pronounced varicose veins, mild to moderate edema, and the prevention of ulcer recurrence.
25-35 mmHg: This pressure range is considered "severe" and is generally recommended for post-phlebitic limb and chronic venous insufficiency, and may also be used for severe varicose veins and the prevention of ulcer recurrence.

What size of compression garment should I get?

Correct sizing is important for safe and effective compression. Measurements are usually taken at specific points on the ankle, calf, and sometimes thigh before choosing a size. For detailed instructions and brand-specific charts, please refer to the sizing guide.

What are gradient compression garments?

Gradient compression garments are designed with the firmest pressure at the ankle, with pressure gradually decreasing higher on the leg. This graduated profile helps encourage blood flow back toward the heart and can improve venous return when worn as prescribed.

What if I only want to wear the sock on one leg?

Some people have symptoms in only one leg. For appearance, a lower-compression sock of the same style and color may sometimes be worn on the unaffected leg. A physician should first confirm that the problem is limited to one leg and that a low-compression sock is appropriate for the other leg.

Do your compression garments contain any Latex?

The following Vitality Medical compression garments may contain Latex in certain styles; always review the product packaging and manufacturer information for current material details:

Mediven Support Stockings
Jobst Men's Dress Socks

Who should not use compression hosiery?

Compression hosiery is not appropriate for every person. Always consult a physician before starting vascular therapy. People with the following conditions are often advised to avoid compression garments unless a specialist specifically recommends them:

Skin lesions or active skin infections
Gangrene or severely compromised tissue
Recent vein ligation surgery
Ischemic vascular disease or severe arterial insufficiency

Sources

World Wide Wounds - Compression Hosiery in the Prevention and Treatment of Venous Leg Ulcers
Medical Library Association - Medspeak Terms - MLANet

Helpful Articles

Vein Forum - American Venous Forum
eMedicine - Chronic Venous Insufficiency
MacMillian - Support Using Compression Garments
MedicineNet - Varicose Veins & Spider Veins