Compression Socks: Does mmHg Matter? | 15-20 mmHg compression socks (2024)

FAQs

Compression Socks: Does mmHg Matter? | 15-20 mmHg compression socks? ›

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.

15-20 mmHg (medium)

This is most common entry level of compression socks, and most doctors will recommend that you start with 15-20 mmHg if you've never worn compression socks before. These socks also help relieve tired, aching legs and prevent or reduce lower body swelling.

The higher the mmHg, the more pressure the socks will provide to you. The levels go from mild compression to more intense styles with a chart that works like this: Mild or Everyday: 8-15 mmHg. Medium or Sport: 15-20 mmHg.

A low level of compression, such as 15-20 mmHg is a great choice for everyday compression stockings to help with mild swelling and fatigued legs due to long periods of travel, sitting or standing. 15-20 mmHg compression stockings come in knee high, thigh high, pantyhose and maternity pantyhose styles.

Medical Grade 20 mmHg to 30 mmHg and 30 mmHg to 40 mmHg

Compression stockings of 20 mmHg or higher need to be prescribed by a physician. They are used for the treatment of various medical conditions, and should be used under the supervision of a doctor. The prescription for them needs to be renewed on an annual basis.

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.

In the event that you still can't decide between sizes, opt for the smallest size that fits your measurements. After all, you're looking to receive all of the benefits of compression, so make sure that the sock fits snugly.

Stockings should feel snug, but not painfully tight. Mild compression, with lower numbers, is usually enough to keep you comfortable on your feet at work. You'll need higher numbers with a firmer fit to prevent DVT.

However, signs that compression socks are too tight include: discomfort, red marks on the top of your leg where the band should rest, and swollen legs. Compression socks should fit like a second skin, and feel supportive. If they feel like they are cutting off circulation then something is likely fitted incorrectly.

In the morning before swelling occurs, measure the circumference of your ankle (around your ankle), the circumference of your calf and the length of your calf (from the knee to the heel sitting with your legs at a 90-degree angle). Use the sizing guide on the compression sock packaging to find the right fit for you.

What is the least tight 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.

15 to 20 mmHg is moderate compression. This is the compression level used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long segments of air travel. 20 to 30 mmHg is firm compression.

All of our Dr. Motion Everyday knee-high compression socks are mild compression, 8-15mmHg. Our Dr. Motion Sports knee-high compression socks or compression calf sleeves are moderate compression, 15-20mmHg.

Lower Pressure Levels: Non-medical grade stockings generally exert lower pressure compared to their medical-grade alternatives. The reduced pressure may be suitable for individuals without specific medical conditions who seek mild leg support during activities such as travel or prolonged sitting.

The biggest difference between OTC and Medical Grade compression is the amount of pressure the garment provides. The amount of pressure aids in the preferred outcome of your compression garments.

Overusing compression socks and wearing them incorrectly can break your skin and create conditions where an infection can start. You shouldn't leave the same pair of compression socks on for days at a time, and you should ask a doctor about the length of wear time recommended for treating your symptoms.

For DVT, most stockings go to just below the knee, but you can get thigh-highs and waist-length tights, too. They also have different levels of pressure, measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Stockings should feel snug, but not painfully tight.

To measure your calves, use a tape measure or a piece of string that you can lay alongside a ruler. If your calf measures between a wide calf and standard calf size, we recommend trying the standard calf size first. Compression socks should feel tight, like a gentle hug for your legs.

Next, you need to measure for length. For knee-high compression socks, measure from the floor (you should be barefoot) to the bend of the knee. For thigh-high compression stockings, measure from the floor up to your gluteal fold, just below your hips.

Step 1: Measure the circumference of the ankle at the narrowest part of the ankle, just above the ankle bone (Point A). Step 2: Measure the circumference of the calf at the widest part of the calf (Point B). Step 4: Use the 15-20 mmHg or the 20-30 mmHg sizing chart to determine your size.