High or Medical Grade: 20-30 mmHg. Extra Firm or Recovery: 30-40 mmHg. Very Firm or Maximum: 40+ mmHg. Compression sleeves have become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the world of athletics and fitness. These sleeves provide added support and improved circulation to the legs and feet, resulting in reduced muscle fatigue, faster recovery, and enhanced performance. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine the right level of pressure for your specific needs. Understanding the levels of compression socks can help you make an informed decision and choose the perfect sleeve to suit your requirements. The higher the mmHg, the more pressure the socks will provide, and the more significant the benefits will be. Compression sleeves come in various levels, ranging from mild compression for everyday wear to much higher mmHg levels for medical grade and specialized recovery purposes. To simplify the decision-making process, a chart has been developed to categorize compression levels into distinct ranges. Medium or sport sleeves offer a compression range of 15 to 20 mmHg and are suitable for active individuals engaging in sports or physical activities. Extra firm or recovery sleeves provide compression levels between 30 and 40 mmHg, making them suitable for those undergoing extensive post-workout recovery or managing severe leg conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
What Does 8-15 mmHg Mean?
This level of compression is considered to be mild and is commonly used for everyday wear and for individuals who experience minor swelling or tired, achy legs. It provides a gentle amount of pressure to improve blood flow and prevent fluid buildup in the legs.
Compression garments with a compression level of 8-15 mmHg are often recommended for individuals who’re at risk of developing varicose veins or those who’ve mild varicose veins. They can also be beneficial for individuals who spend long periods of time sitting or standing, as they can help alleviate discomfort and promote better circulation.
They can aid in muscle recovery and reduce muscle soreness post-workout. The gentle compression can also help reduce swelling and promote faster healing of minor injuries.
It’s important to note that the actual level of compression you may need can vary based on your specific situation and the recommendation of a healthcare professional.
They provide a moderate level of compression and are suitable for individuals who experience mild to moderate swelling or spend long periods standing. This range includes a variety of compression sock designs.
What Does 8-15 mmHg Compression Socks Mean?
Provides moderate compression. Great for long periods of standing or sitting, and ideal for travel. This level of compression is commonly recommended for healthy individuals as a preventive measure for varicose veins and blood clot prevention. Our classic solid color compression socks are available in this range.
20-30 mmHg: Provides firm compression. Suitable for more significant swelling and edema. also recommended for the treatment of mild to moderate varicose veins, post-surgery recovery, and prevention of venous insufficiency. Our advanced compression socks with targeted cushioning and support are available in this range.
This level of compression is commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and severe varicose veins.
Intended for severe cases of venous disorders, lymphedema, and chronic leg ulcers. This level of compression is medically necessary and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Our medical-grade compression garments with specialized features and materials are available in this range.
Compression socks work by applying pressure to the legs, ankles, and feet, helping promote blood flow and reduce swelling. The compression level is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which indicates the amount of pressure applied. The higher the mmHg, the more compression the socks provide.
It’s worth noting that compression socks are available in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns, so you can find a pair that suits your personal style while also providing the necessary compression for your legs. Whether you need light compression for occasional swelling or firm compression for more severe conditions, there’s a wide range of options to choose from to help support your leg health.
How to Properly Measure for Compression Socks
- Wear a comfortable pair of socks and sit in a chair with your legs uncrossed.
- Using a flexible tape measure, measure the circumference of your ankle at the narrowest point.
- Next, measure the circumference of your calf at the widest point.
- For knee-high compression socks, measure the length from the floor to just below your knee.
- For thigh-high compression socks, measure the length from the floor to the top of your thigh.
- Refer to a sizing chart provided by the compression sock manufacturer to determine the appropriate size based on your measurements.
- When trying on the compression socks, make sure they feel snug but not overly tight or restrictive.
- If you experience any discomfort or if the socks leave indents on your skin, you may need a different size or level of compression.
- It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations and guidance in choosing the right compression socks for your specific needs.
Source: What Does mmHg Mean on Compression Socks? – LinkedIn
Conclusion
It’s important to know the level of compression when selecting a compression sleeve, as it affects the effectiveness and comfort of the sleeve. The mmHg measurement indicates the amount of pressure the sleeve applies to the legs, with higher levels providing more compression. To determine the mmHg of a compression sleeve, look for this information on the packaging or consult a sizing chart.