This comprehensive guide will demystify compression stocking pressure levels, help you understand what your doctor recommended, and give you the confidence to select compression stockings that will actually improve your condition.
What You'll Learn in This Compression Stocking Guide
- Complete mmHg compression level chart with therapeutic applications
- How compression is measured and why mercury (mmHg) still matters
- How to choose the right level for your specific condition
- Answers to the most common questions from patients and caregivers
Understanding Compression Classes: The Complete Compression Stocking mmHg Chart
Compression stockings are classified into different pressure ranges, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The chart below summarizes the most common compression classes, pressure ranges, and typical clinical uses.
| Compression Class | Pressure Range (mmHg) | Therapeutic Applications | Typical Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Support | 8–15 mmHg | Preventive care, early symptoms | Tired legs, minor swelling, long periods of standing |
| Moderate | 15–20 mmHg | Mild to moderate symptoms | Varicose veins, pregnancy swelling, post-sclerotherapy |
| Firm | 20–30 mmHg | Moderate to severe symptoms | Moderate varicose veins, post-surgical recovery, chronic venous insufficiency |
| Extra Firm | 30–40 mmHg | Severe symptoms | Severe varicose veins, post-thrombotic syndrome, chronic venous insufficiency |
| Medical Grade | 40–50 mmHg | Severe medical conditions | Severe chronic venous insufficiency, severe post-thrombotic syndrome |
How Compression Pressure Is Measured (and Why mmHg Matters)
The mmHg measurement literally means "millimeters of mercury". It is the same unit used to measure your blood pressure. The term dates back to early medical and scientific devices that measured how high pressure could push a column of liquid mercury in a glass tube.
Although modern medical devices no longer use actual mercury, the medical community continues to rely on mmHg because it is a universal standard worldwide. When your doctor recommends "20–30 mmHg compression", they are using the same language understood across hospitals, clinics, and manufacturers.
What the Compression Measurement Actually Means
The compression range on a garment refers to the amount of pressure applied at your ankle. In a properly designed graduated compression stocking, this is where pressure is strongest. The pressure then gradually decreases as it moves up your leg.
This graduated design promotes healthy blood flow back to your heart and is what makes medical compression effective—unlike regular socks that apply uniform pressure from ankle to calf.
Think of it like a gentle, consistent squeeze that is firmest at the ankle and lighter at the calf and thigh. That gradient is the key to reducing swelling and improving circulation.
Why Compression Stockings Are Listed as "15–20 mmHg" (Not a Single Number)
You may notice that compression stockings are labeled with ranges like "15–20 mmHg" instead of a single number. This range represents the span of pressures applied at the ankle for a given size.
For example, if you are wearing a size designed for a 9"–10" ankle circumference, that stocking will deliver no more than 20 mmHg and no less than 15 mmHg of pressure at the ankle. This range:
- Accounts for natural variations in leg shape and soft tissue
- Helps ensure therapeutic compression across a wider range of body types
- Still keeps pressure in the safe and effective therapeutic window
How to Choose the Right Compression Level
Selecting the correct compression strength depends on your symptoms, medical history, daily activities, and your doctor’s recommendations. The guidance below is for education only and does not replace medical advice.
Start with 15–20 mmHg if you have:
- Tired, aching legs after long days
- Minor swelling, especially during pregnancy
- Family history of vein problems but no current symptoms
- Work that requires prolonged standing or sitting
Consider 20–30 mmHg for:
- Visible varicose veins
- Moderate leg swelling
- Recovery from vein procedures
- History of blood clots
- Chronic venous insufficiency
30+ mmHg is typically recommended for:
- Severe varicose veins
- Significant chronic swelling
- Lymphedema management
- Post-thrombotic syndrome
Important: Always follow your healthcare provider's specific recommendations. Even people with similar symptoms may need different compression levels based on their leg measurements, circulation, and daily activity level.
The Comfort Factor: Why It Matters for Effective Compression
The most effective compression stocking is the one you will actually wear consistently. Medical research shows that patient compliance (wearing compression as prescribed) is the single biggest factor in therapeutic success.
Traditional medical-grade compression often sacrifices comfort for clinical effectiveness. At Rescue Legs, the goal is to combine true medical-grade graduated compression with all-day comfort. Products are manufactured in North Carolina using advanced materials that:
- Provide the therapeutic pressure your doctor recommends
- Reduce the struggle typically associated with putting on compression stockings
- Feel soft and wearable during everyday life
You shouldn't have to choose between following your doctor's orders and being comfortable. The proprietary "Comfort Knit Technology" is designed to give you both.
Frequently Asked Questions About Compression Stockings
Rescue Legs does not process insurance directly. However, because compression stockings qualify as medical devices, you can usually use your HSA or FSA card at checkout. Your card will work just like any debit card during the purchase process.
Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent (TED) hose are designed specifically for non-ambulatory patients in hospital settings and are not intended for everyday home use. Once you are discharged, your provider will usually recommend 15–20 mmHg graduated compression stockings that are made for active daily wear. Always confirm the appropriate level with your healthcare provider.
Compression stockings up to 30 mmHg are typically available without a prescription, though your doctor's guidance is very helpful for choosing the right level. Higher compression levels may require medical supervision. Even for lower levels, a prescription can make it easier to request reimbursement from your insurance provider.
Effective compression should help you notice:
- Reduced swelling over the course of the day
- Less leg fatigue and heaviness
- Improved comfort during standing, sitting, or walking
If your symptoms persist, worsen, or if stockings feel painful or uncomfortably tight, contact your healthcare provider. They may adjust your compression level or sizing.
With proper care, quality compression stockings typically maintain their therapeutic effectiveness for 4 to 6 months of daily wear. Having multiple pairs to rotate:
- Extends the life of each pair
- Helps you keep a clean pair available every day
- Maintains consistent compression over time
Compression stockings can feel snug, but with the right technique they should be manageable. For best results:
- Put them on first thing in the morning when swelling is minimal
- Turn the stocking inside out to the heel, then slowly roll it up your leg
- Make sure the toe and heel sections fit snugly with no large wrinkles
Properly fitted compression stockings should feel snug and supportive, not painful. You should feel:
- Gentle, firm pressure at the ankle
- Progressively lighter pressure higher up the leg
- No numbness, tingling, or pinching
If stockings cause pain, discoloration, or numbness, remove them and contact your healthcare provider for a fit or compression-level review.
Experience the Rescue Legs Difference
Uncomfortable compression stockings shouldn't stand between you and the relief you need. American-made Rescue Legs stockings combine medical-grade effectiveness with superior comfort, so you can follow your doctor’s recommendations without sacrificing day-to-day quality of life.
If you are ready to experience comfortable compression that actually works, explore our selection of medical-grade compression stockings designed for all-day therapeutic support.
Browse a full range of styles and compression levels, including light support, moderate, firm, extra-firm, and medical-grade options.