Features of Compression Garments
Compression garments come in various levels of pressure, lengths, and other features that provide a lot of options to consider when trying to find the right pair of socks. A pedorthist has product knowledge about what is available and appropriate for their clients and can help narrow down the options in the search for a good sock.
The two most notable features of a compression garment are the level of compression (how much they squeeze the leg) and height (how far up the leg they go).
Compression garments use graduated compression to squeeze more down towards the toes than they do further up the leg. This amount of compression is measured in mmHg and the higher the number the more squeeze the socks provide.
Levels of compression:
8-15mmHg
The lowest level of support appropriate for mildly aching or tired legs from sitting and standing.
15-20mmHg
This level of compression offers a bit more support during longer periods of sitting/standing and can help to mitigate some mild swelling. They can also help to reduce the risk of vein damage during pregnancy.
20-30mmHg
This is the most commonly issued level of compression in our pedorthist's experience. Here we can start to aid heavily fatigued or painful legs, varicose and spider veins, as well as edema and some forms of low blood pressure. This amount of compression can also have significant effects on the cardiovascular system and heart; thus a physician's prescription is required for these socks. Socks of lower compression levels may not be covered by many benefits plans as they are not considered 'medical grade' like these ones.
30-40mmHg
Socks of this level are used in managing more severe medical conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, phlebitis, lymphedema, and more serious varicose veins.
40-50mmHg
The highest level of compression typically available. Used for very serious circulatory conditions.
Compression garments also come in various heights, which is why I keep switching between calling these items garments and socks. Very rarely there are compressive ankle socks available, but most socks will go up to just below your knee. Then they go up to around mid-thigh. There are also maternity hose that go from the toes all the way up to cradling the pelvis and abdomen. A few options come in open toe variants although this is somewhat rare.
Other features:
cushioned footbed - a thick, plush layer worked into the sole of the sock, excellent for reducing pain and fatigue while working on warehouse, factory, and hospital floors
hypoallergenic - certain materials are good for avoiding allergies or soothing sensitive skin
heat dispersal - certain materials or weaves are great for either trapping heat in the winter or dispersing it in the summer, cotton for cold seasons and linen for warmer ones are common
pattern/colour - solid black and beige are almost always an option if you need to keep things looking business professional, and then things can get more adventurous from there, we have seen bright, solid pastels, wavy line designs, various plaids and checkers, the biggest limiting factor will be what is available in a sock that has the other features you need
seams - most socks have a seamless weave to avoid any areas that could cause irritation, also note there shouldn't be a tighter band across the top that digs into your calf or thigh compression socks do not have a lip like that
grip top - some socks have little silicone beads along the top to help keep them snug and fully pulled up
cleaning - it varies from company to company, but many socks are machine washable on a cold, light setting but are best left to air dry. Some may require handwashing with a gentle detergent.
