Types of Compression Hose
Compression hose, or compression stockings, facilitate the proper circulation of blood and lymph fluid in the legs. They relieve leg fatigue, leg swelling and edema in the legs and feet. They relieve symptoms of lymphedema and the swelling of varicose veins. The level of compression is greatest at the ankle and gradually reduced towards the top of the stocking. Compression hose come in a variety of styles, types and gradients.
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Style Type
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Knee-high gradient compression stockings prevent or manage swelling that occurs below the knee, typically in the calf. Thigh-high gradient compression hose or compression pantyhose treat swelling that occurs above the knees. Knee-high compression stockings, thigh-high compression hose and compression pantyhose come in open- or closed-toe styles. They also come in a variety of colors to match wardrobe preferences.
Stocking Types
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There are two types of compression hose, gradient and anti-embolism (TED) hose. The weave in gradient compression stockings results in the compression level lessening towards the top of the compression stocking. Doctors prescribe gradient compression hose for patients with long-term medical issues. TED hoses have minimal, even pressure throughout the stocking.Doctors prescribe TED hose for bed-ridden, wheelchair-bound or post-operative patients
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Gradient Types
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Compression stockings have different levels of compression. The millimeter of mercury (mmHg) is a measure of pressure the stocking exerts on the leg to support the veins.
The 8-15 mmHg level compression hose are available over the counter. Doctors recommend them for people experiencing aching, fatigued legs, people who are on their feet a lot and pregnant women.
Doctors prescribe the 15-20 mmHg level compression stocking for people with a circulatory condition and for people prone to experiencing leg fatigue and swelling. Doctors prescribe them for spider veins or varicose veins and pregnant women.
Doctors prescribe the 20-30 mmHg level compression hose for people who experience moderate heaviness or swelling in their legs. They are prescribed for people suffering from mild varicose veins, varicose veins during pregnancy or patients recovering from vein surgery.
Doctors prescribe the 30-40 mmHg level compression stockings for patients prone to clots, diagnosed with lymphedema or suffering from severe leg swelling, as well as pregnant women suffering from phlebitis.
Doctors prescribe the 40-50 mmHg level compression hose for patients who suffer from lymphedema, severe circulatory conditions or severe venous ulcers.
Doctors prescribe the 50-60 mmHg level compression stockings for patients with severe lymph edema or severe post-thrombotic syndrome and patients who have had surgery for compression lymphedema.
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