Some clinics refer to this range as firm compression. These high compression levels can be useful for: People who recently underwent treatment for ulcers, thrombophlebitis, post-thrombotic syndrome and may be prone to such conditions in the future.

Next, encircle the tape measure around the metatarsal head and record that measurement and make a mark. Suitable to control the progression of varicose veins, DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and spider veins. What medical issues are the various compression levels used for? Here’s a guide. These are general guidelines. The severity of a certain issue will help determine the level needed. This mild compression range of 15-20 mmHg is the second most commonly used compression level. Support garments in this range are ideal for: When selecting a compression strength for your hosiery either for traveling or for support while working, make sure you consult your doctor for recommendations. It all depends on your situation and a lighter compression level might be effective than a stronger compression.People who do not have any specific leg conditions or diseases but who wish to protect their feet and ankles from minor injuries.

mmHg or 15-20 mmHg are low compression, great for flying, pregnancy or just general improved circulation. We like that the secure band doesn’t slide down or bunch up. And the fabric contains a breathable blend of cotton, spandex, polyester, and nylon to keep your feet cool and dry. You can buy them over the counter, but if your doctor prescribes them, your insurance may cover the cost. Medium compression. These provide tightness between 20 and 30 mmHg. They will help those who’ve had a DVT or varicose veins control swelling and pain. With 15 to 20 mmHg of compression, this pair is right in the middle of the pressure range on our list. We also like the simple, sporty design, which is ideal for regular wear. And they feature Bombas’ typical seamless toe for comfort whether you’re wearing them alone or in shoes.At WH Labs, our team tests a wide range of products and services to provide our readers with reliable, honest, and trustworthy information. It's our belief that our readers deserve the best, which is why our recommendations have been thoroughly tested and vetted by our very own editors. Each level of strength can be helpful for leg and foot circulation when it comes for traveling, recovery or other types of medical therapy. Grace Wu most recently updated this article. She's a Textiles Product Review Analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute who oversaw recent in-Lab and consumer tests. Prior to joining GH, Grace earned a Master of Engineering in Materials Science & Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Fiber Science from Cornell University. treatment of varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, venous leg ulcers, deep vein thrombosis and other venous conditions Dr. Marion Yau is an award-winning celebrity podiatrist and YouTuber based in the United Kingdom. She's also known as Miss Foot Fixer.

We felt a significant difference after sitting all day in these, with more energy in our legs and feet. And we liked that the looser toe allowed for a better range of motion, so we could wiggle our toes freely without our feet feeling squeezed. Using the measuring tape and the ankle mark as “0,” measure and make a mark at 5 centimeters (cm), 15 cm, 25 cm and 30 cm.

You can buy these with a doctor’s prescription and must use them only under your physician’s recommendation. If you’re able to, buy more than one pair so you have an extra pair on hand if one tears or gets dirty.

Long-distance travelers who experience edema, swollen legs and discomfort during travel via road or by air for long hours. People who travel long distances. When you sit for prolonged periods, your circulation declines. That can increase swelling and your risk for blood clots, Dr. Valjee says, noting that people who travel by plane are especially at risk because of the high cabin pressure during flights.

Gravity is always working against your heart as it pumps blood throughout the body. As a result, your blood and lymph fluids experience a constant gravitational pull downwards. Although our circulatory system is able to pump nutrient-rich oxygenated blood to all parts of the body, gravity can make that more difficult. Dr. Valjee says that unless a doctor has advised you otherwise, it’s best to start with the lightest amount of compression and work your way up from there if you’re not satisfied. A light compression range of 8-15 mmHg is gentle enough to be tolerated well by nearly any wearer. Garments falling in this range are: For the same reasons, compression sleeves are a great option in the summertime. You’ll even be able to wear sandals or flip-flops with them. By “high-level compression,” we mean those that generally range from 20-30 mmHg to 30-40 mmHg; while these strengths are generally safe to wear, certain individuals may be at risk of harm due to contraindications, so the oversight of a doctor is always recommended. Compression levels in even higher ranges do exist, but your doctor should tell you about those.