Compression Level Guide
Not sure which compression level is best for you? Our guide explains how the different levels work and which symptoms they are usually recommended for so you can find the level that is best for you specific health needs.
Remember to always consult your doctor before wearing any level above 15-20 mmHg. It is also best to consult your doctor with any symptoms or concerns you have to find out which level is best for you.
8-15 mmHg
Mild Compression
This is the lightest form of compression, which is great for energizing your legs. This compression level provides relief from tired and achy legs and helps control minor swelling.
8-15 mmHg Mild Compression is recommended for:
- Tired, Achy Legs
- Mild Fatigue
- Occupations with long periods of sitting or standing
15-20 mmHg
Moderate Graduated Compression
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.
Shop Now20-30 mmHg
Firm Graduated Compression
The most frequently prescribed level provides 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
30-40 mmHg
Extra Firm Graduated Compression
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