Compression Level Guide

The moderate compression provides relief from minor to moderate swelling, aching, and varicose veins. They are great for preventing deep vein thrombosis (or economy class syndrome) while traveling, but they’re also good for anyone who stands or sits for long periods of time.

15-20 mmHg Moderate Compression is recommended for:

• Discomfort from spider veins
• Relief from minor leg swelling
• Relief of tired aching legs
• Relief of leg discomfort during pregnancy
• Minor varicose veins
• For wear following sclerotherapy

Note: These are examples of reasons to wear this level of compression. Please consult with your physician for compressions above 15-20 mmHg.

For prevention of embolism.

The most frequently prescribed level offer firm compression and can be used to treat a variety of mild to moderate conditions. This level can provide relief from varicose veins, edema, deep vein thrombosis, and post-sclerotherapy.

20-30 mmHg Firm Compression is recommended for:

• Heaviness and fatigue in the legs
• Low-grade varicosities without special disposition for edema
• Varicosities during pregnancy
• Small varicose dilations of cutaneous veins
• Post-sclerotherapy

Often prescribed to provide relief from moderate to severe edema, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis. They’re also prescribed for post-sclerotherapy and to heal active venous stasis ulcers. This level of compression should only be worn under a doctor’s supervision.

30-40 mmHg Extra Firm compression is recommended for:

• Relief of aching, heaviness and fatigue caused by varices
• Post-surgery or sclerotherapy
• Prophylaxis of thrombosis
• Prophylaxis and treatment of complications of varicose veins and post phlebitic syndrome with chronic venous insufficiency
• Venous ulcers
• Varices during pregnancy
• Pregnant patients with previous phlebitis
• Management of edema and effective scar formation after burns
• Stasis dermatitis due to chronic venous insufficiency
• Lymphedema

For lymphedema, severe chronic venous insufficiency, post phlebitis syndrome, chronic venous problems after surgery, and venous ulcers.

40-50 mmHg Strong Compression is recommended for:

• For severe degrees of the above listed conditions
• Emphasized edema from above causes
• Lymphedema
• Severe chronic venous insufficiency as with post-phlebitic syndrome
• Chronic venous problems after surgery
• Venous ulcers

For severe post thrombotic syndrome and primary lymphedema after decongestant therapy for reduction maintenance.

50-60 mmHg Extra Strong Compression is recommended for:

• Primary lymphedema after decongestant therapy for reduction maintenance
• Severe Post Thrombotic Syndrome

The above recommendations were provided by the manufacturers of these products and should not be used in lieu of a physician's recommendation. Please consult with a physician or healthcare professional before choosing your compression.