Compression (DVT) Stockings Are Not Created Equal
The difference between stiockings bought over the counter and those bought at a specialist centre is the compression. Over the counter stockings will often not state what compression they provide or it will be less than 15mmHg. Specialist center stockings will provide a compression of 15-20mmHg for Class 1 stockings or 20-30mmHg for Class 2. The mmHg stands for millimetres of mercury and is the same pressure used to measure blood pressure. TED stockins (white) are often used in the hospital after surgery. These provide support but not as strong compression as a Class 1 or 2 stocking.
Class 1 Compression Hosiery are used for:
every day use to relieve symptoms of heavy tired legs
for support during pregnancy
after microsclerotherapy treatment for spider veins
for DVT prevention during flights if you don’t have varicose veins
lymphoedema
Class 2 Compression Hosiery are used for:
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Varicose Veins
After Surgery
After a DVT
Varicose Ulcers.
In the different classes of stockings a number of styles are available. These may be thigh or knee high and come with options of with or without toes. There is a colour choice of black or beige or skin colour. Some versions contain silver and are cooling with antibacterial properties.
For advice or fitting of the appropriate stocking for you visit Palm Clinic.
