Medical grade compression can make a huge difference to your health. Compression stockings and limb supports compress the superficial veins and lymph vessels facilitating a ‘pump effect’ improving circulation and minimising swelling.
Reflux into superficial vessels can cause pain, swelling and visible varicosities.
Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg).
Graduated compression provides slightly more pressure further away from the heart facilitating movement of fluid (blood and lymph) towards the core.
Classification of compression levels
Preventive and therapeutic stockings, tights and supports are classified according to the amount of compression they provide.
CLASS A prevention
- predisposed persons
- swollen legs
- telangiectasias (spider veins)
- mild swelling (oedema)
CLASS I (18-21 mmHg)
- varicose veins with substantial oedema
- acrocyanosis (discolouration due to poor peripheral circulation)
- post-sclerotherapy (treatment of varicose veins by injection of an irritant)
- post-varicectomy (removal of varicose veins)
CLASS II (23-32 mmHg)
- deep venous insufficiency
- Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT)
- post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) also called postphlebitic syndrome and venous stress disorder is a medical condition that may occur as a long-term complication of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
- ulcers
- lymphoedema
- lipoedema
CLASS III (34-46 mmHg)
- severe oedema
- chronic hypodermitis (skin irritation from fluid build up)
- lymphoedema
CLASS IV (>49 mmHg)
- for all the pathologies already listed and present in their most severe form
It is important to speak to a qualified healthcare professional before using Class 2, 3 or 4 compression.
Deniers (D)
The deniers indicate the size (diameter) of the yarn used to weave the stockings and tights. The lower the denier the more light/sheer the tights are. The higher the denier the more compact, strong and resistant the fabric, making the tights less sheer (more opaque).