Compression socks, stockings, and tights are garments that apply pressure to the legs to help boost blood flow. They’re used to treat a variety of medical conditions and can also help reduce fatigue and achiness in the legs.

There are a variety of different types of compression products – some which require a prescription and some which don’t – and it can be confusing knowing which ones are right for you. If you’d like to enjoy the benefits of compression, but don’t know where to begin, continue reading for our straightforward guide on getting started.

What different types of compression products are available?

Compression products come in a range of different compression levels – the higher the level, the tighter the garment will feel. The level of compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg), the same unit that’s used to measure blood pressure.

Non-medical grade compression

Compression grades of 20 mmHg or less are considered non-medical grade and can be purchased without a prescription. They will usually be available in 8-15 mmHg (light compression) or 15-20 mmHg (moderate compression).

Light and moderate compression items are used for general comfort and support for those with tired, achy, or slightly swollen legs. They can also be used in a preventative manner to increase circulation and avoid the development of more serious issues – such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis.

If any of the following apply to you, light or medium compression might be the right choice:

• You suffer from tired, achy legs at the end of the day.
• You have spider veins or varicose veins.
• You sit or stand for long periods of time.
• You are pregnant.
• You have some excess weight.

Compression for travel

A popular reason to use non-medical grade compression is to help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during long periods of travel. Sitting still in a cramped space such as a train, car, or plane for a prolonged period has been associated with the development of DVT, where a blood clot forms in one of the veins deep within the leg. Wearing compression socks or stockings has been shown to boost blood flow and reduce the risk of developing DVT.

Wellwise by Shoppers™ has a range of compression items designed for use while travelling that you can browse in store or on our website.

Compression for physical activity

Another popular use of compression therapy is during physical activity, since studies have shown that they reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery following exercise. Compression socks are particularly popular for use during aerobic activities and sports such as running, basketball, soccer, and even triathlons. At Wellwise by Shoppers™, we have a wide range of sports compression items available that you can shop on our website and in store.

Medical grade compression

Compression products above 20 mmHg are considered medical grade, and you usually need a prescription to access them. Firm, medical grade compression is usually available in 20-30 mmHg, 30-40 mmHg, and 40-50 mmHg and can help with the following conditions:

20-30 mmHg

• Painful, heavily fatigued legs
• Varicose veins
• Mild edema
• Orthostatic/postural hypotension, a form of low blood pressure

30-40 mmHg

• Moderate to severe edema and lymphedema
• Serious cases of varicose veins
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and post thrombotic syndrome
• Following bone fractures and orthopedic surgeries
• Phlebitis

40-50 mmHg

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• The most severe cases of DVT and post thrombotic syndrome

How to get a compression prescription

If you experience any of the symptoms or conditions outlined above, consider speaking to your family doctor to find out whether prescription compression is for you. They will be able to tell you if it’s a treatment worth pursuing and prescribe the appropriate level of compression. Once prescribed, compression products will be covered by most health insurance policies.

At Wellwise by Shoppers™, our in-store consultants can fill your compression prescription and provide advice on the proper use and maintenance of your products. To find out more, head to your local Wellwise® location, where our friendly and knowledgeable team will be happy to discuss your options for both medical and non-medical grade compression.

The information presented in this blog post is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on any information in this post as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or as a substitute for professional counseling care. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Resources

https://orthohealth.ca/compression-therapy/types-of-compression-stockings/

 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/canada/services/compression-stockings

https://www.sigvaris.com/en-us/expertise/basics/compression-levels

https://www.legsmart.com/blogs/resources/7032008-understanding-levels-of-compression-for-stockings#:~:text=The%20standard%20compression%20levels%20for,mmHg%20(medical%20class%203).

https://www.webmd.com/dvt/choose-compression-stockings