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WHAT IS GRADIENT COMPRESSION?
True Gradient compression stockings improve circulation. Therafirm® support socks and hosiery are designed to deliver a controlled amount of pressure which is greatest at the distal end (ankle) of the garment and gradually decreases towards the proximal end (top) of the stocking. Compression socks and hosiery combat the effects of gravity by encouraging blood flow, promoting better circulation to help control swelling and relieve tired achy legs. |
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WHO SHOULD WEAR GRADIENT COMPRESSION STOCKINGS?
People who have or are experiencing any of the following conditions can benefit from wearing gradient compression hosiery: |
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• Expectant mothers
• Tired, aching, fatigued legs
• Swollen feet, ankles, and legs
• Mild to moderate swelling
• Stand or sit for long periods
• Overweight
• Other conditions as recommended by a doctor |
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DON'T HAVE A CONDITION?
Additionally, many individuals without preceding conditions simply appreciate wearing our gradient compression hosiery. Most people love the way they make their legs feel. |
| Because standing or sitting for long periods can cause pooling of blood, several professions could benefit from compression socks or hosiery to promote healthy circulation and energy: |
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• Nurses, Doctors, Medical Professionals
• Waiters & Waitresses
• Teachers & Educators
• Salespeople - Retail, Trade Shows, etc.
• Casino Dealers
• Construction Workers
• Office Workers |
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Always consult your health care provider about health concerns or
conditions and whether gradient compression is right for you. |
| CHOOSING MY SUPPORT |
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10-15mmHg* LIGHT SUPPORT DESIGNED TO:
• energize tired legs and feet
• improve circulation
• assist in the prevention of swelling
*The mean compression for an average ankle size. |
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20-30mmHg* MODERATE SUPPORT DESIGNED TO HELP RELIEVE:
• moderate ankle and leg swelling
• leg swelling during pregnancy
• other conditions as physician recommended
*The mean compression for an average ankle size. |
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15-20mmHg* MILD SUPPORT DESIGNED TO HELP RELIEVE:
• tired, aching legs
• minor ankle and leg swelling
*The mean compression for an average ankle size. |
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30-40mmHg* FIRM SUPPORT DESIGNED TO HELP RELIEVE:
• moderate to severe ankle and leg swelling
• other conditions as physician recommended
*The mean compression for an average ankle size. |
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The key to true gradient compression is in a compression product that fits. There's even a profession in the industry called Certified Fitters that some retailers employ to ensure proper fitting of compression socks.
WHEN TO MEASURE
Patients should be measured when they first get up in the morning. This helps prevent the fitter from measuring based upon the affected area’s circumference after swelling has occurred.
Measure the patient while he or she is standing. If the fitting can not take place before the patient has been on his/her feet for some time, the patient’s legs and feet should be elevated for 15 minutes prior to taking the measurements.
HOW TO MEASURE
Take snug measurements against the skin. Avoid measuring over socks or slacks. Never allow folds in stockings. Never remove any wound dressings. Stockings should not be too tight over dressings. Socks must fit the shape of the foot. Socks should have even compression or elasticity so that the sock takes on the anatomical shape of the foot without high compression (binding points) that may create discomfort or circulation obstruction.
Observe the bare foot prior to donning the sock. After donning the sock, the foot shape should be consistent with that of the bare foot. |
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