Compression Info

A simple rule of thumb

If the patient is lying in bed = anti-embolism stockings

If the patient is ambulatory = use medical graduated compression stockings

How graduation compression works

As a person walks, the contraction and relaxation of the calf muscles around the veins aid in moving blood toward the heart.

External graduated compression socks and stockings act as a layer of muscle by gently squeezing the stretched vein walls together, allowing the valves to close. The cavity of the vein is reduced, thereby restoring blood flow to a normal state and aiding overall circulation.

To be most effective, the socks or stockings should be put on at the start of your day and removed before you go to bed.

Some people have an inherited weakness of the vein walls or valves which creates additional challenges to venous return.

Wearing graduated compression socks or stockings is vital for the prevention and treatment of varicose veins and other circulatory problems

Anti-embolism vs. medical compression stockings

The biggest difference between anti-embolism stockings and medical compression stockings is the compression level and the medical reason for which it is worn.

Anti-embolism stockings are usually 8 - 18mmHg, while medical compression stockings are a medically-measured 15 - 20mmHg or higher. In addition, the purpose of anti-embolism stockings is to maintain normal venous return in a bedridden patient.

Medical Compression hosiery and socks are used to treat venous and lymphatic disorders in ambulatory patients.

Graduated compression stockings are used for all stages of Chronic Venous Insufficiency, including varicose veins, oedema, stasis skin changes, and venous procedures. They may also be used in preventing and treating Post-Thrombotic Syndrome.

According to medical research, ambulatory patients with Chronic Venous Disorders require more compression than is available in anti-embolism stockings.