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The compression stocking market is a very saturated one. This means that if it is your first time attempting to purchase a pair, it might be difficult to make an educated choice. There are so many different kinds of compression stockings out there, but how can you ensure that you have chosen the right one? This article will explain the different types of compression stocking products, as well as how to pick the product that is compatible with whatever health condition you might have.

15-20 mmHg

‘mmHg’ is short form for ‘millimeters of Mercury’. This is a medical term that measures the amount of pressure that the stocking exerts on your legs. It is interesting to note that this is the same unit of measurement as your blood pressure. Similarly, compression stockings are categorized based on the range of pressure they provide patients of different sizes. 15-20 mmHg is probably one of the lowest pressure ranges that you can find over the counter. It is suitable for use in your daily tasks, when you travel, and even when you play sports. They are easy to wear and can improve your blood circulation without suffocating your legs.

20-30 mmHg

The 20-30 mmHg range is more suited for people who want to alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins and even swelling or inflammation after a surgery. However, it is not necessary for you to have a certain health condition for you to wear a pair of compression stockings in this range. People who are healthy but require more support than the previous range might opt for this range.

30-40 mmHg

As you can probably already guess, as the numbers increase, so does the pressure. The 30-40 mmHg range is for people who are experiencing moderate to serious health symptoms. As such, because the pressure is so strong for this range, it is perfect for patients suffering from blood clots (Deep-Vein Thrombosis), edema, or who have just been through a surgery.

Different Compression Stocking Options

When searching for the perfect pair of compression stockings, you need to bear in mind your preferences, needs and its desired function. If you get compression stockings that are knee-high, be sure never to pull them above your knee. This can result in discomfort and might even be dangerous for some people.

Alternatively, you can choose a thigh high compression stocking as well. They essentially wrap around your whole leg, from your ankle to the top of your thighs. Waist high compression stockings are different because they are connected. They are usually more elastic than usual because they need to cater to people of bigger sizes as well.

Picking the Right Compression Stockings

Before you choose the type of compression stockings that suits your needs, you need to ask yourself some questions. For example, if you have swelling, which part of your body is affected? If the swelling occurs in your ankles, all you need are knee-high stockings. If the swelling spreads to above your knee to the waist, then thigh or waist-high stockings might be more suitable. You can also choose between opaque and sheer compression stockings, depending on what kind of style you are going for.