mmHg is the international per unit of pressure measurement that is used to classify the elasticity of gradient/non-gradient compression garments. Broken down, mm stands for millimeters of mercury, and Hg is the chemical symbol for mercury.

Compression levels will depend on the type and style of the compression garments which can range from 8-60 mmHg. Any compression garment over 40 mmHg can only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription and wearing recommendations.

Compression ranges

8 mmHg (Extra light)
All garment products with this compression value or less are worn for the following reasons:

  • Accommodate swelling in the feet, ankle and lower leg
  • Provide comfort to sensitive feet and ankles
  • Provide protection insensitive (nerve damaged) feet.

9-17 mmHg (Light)
Garments within this range are worn to prevent and or treat the following conditions:

  • Moderate swelling (edema)
  • Prophylaxis (the measures taken in order to prevent problems) during pregnancy
  • Heavy, fatigued, aching calf muscles (ex. support socks and compression stockings)

18-24 mmHg  (Moderate)
Foot and leg garments within this range are worn to prevent and or treat the following conditions:

  • Heavy, fatigued, aching calf muscles
  • Medium to severe varicose vein
  • Spider veins
  • Minor Leg ulcers
  • Early stages of DVT
  • Heavy edema

25-30 mmHg (Firm)
Products within this category may be of use in preventing and or treating the following:

  • Severe Varicose Vein
  • DVT in advanced stages
  • Severe edema

35-60 mmHg (Extra firm)
Products within this mmHg range should be used with great care as the compression level is very high. Under proper medical supervision they may worn to prevent and /or treating the following:

  • Severe Varicose Vein
  • DVT in advanced stages
  • Severe Lymphoedema
  • Elephantitis

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