20-30mmhg vs 15-20mmhg, that’s the question on many people’s minds. Many have heard that the socks with a higher number of mmhg are better suited for their feet, but do you know the difference?
20-30 mmhg compression socks. Compression socks are a good way to help blood flow in the body and help prevent blood clots. Many people do not wear compression socks because they do not understand them or think they will hurt. Here we’re going to show you just how effective they really are.
I’m HYPED to show you how this stuff can help you get better blood flow and healthier veins. In this post I’ll explain what 20-30 mmhg means in compression socks, show pictures of the different sizes available, why a higher percentage of your body weight is important and how high ankle boots are the best for people with feet below 30mmHg.
20 30 mmhg compression socks – what does this mean? They’re designed to help your feet and legs by reducing swelling, inflammation and reduce pain. When it comes to compression socks and compression garments there is often more than one way to achieve the same result. Compression socks are typically made of nylon or elastic and have a slim fit, tight elastic band and a silicone top layer. They can be used for activities such as running, cycling and swimming.
What does 20-30 mmhg mean in compression socks
Compression socks are a great option for those who are looking to reduce their risk of developing blood clots. Compression socks have been gaining popularity among athletes and individuals who suffer from certain medical conditions like varicose veins, lymphedema and Raynaud’s phenomena. What does 20 30 mmhg mean in compression socks? It is hard to find the exact answers when you ask yourself ”what size is 20 30 mmhg compression socks?” because now there are so many types of compression socks available in the market. Although it may be just me but I don’t feel comfortable going online to buy any product that doesn’t have specifications clearly explained which include size, material and manufacturing country as well as brand name etc.
A lot of people have heard about compression socks but don’t know what they are or how they work. Compression socks are an amazing way to help with circulation and reducing swelling (although they may not be able to fix extreme swelling). 20-30 mmhg compression socks are designed to reduce swelling in legs by 30-40%. Some of the less expensive brands only offer 15-20 mmhg, which isn’t as effective in reducing swelling although it does provide some sociability benefits.
What does 20 30 mmhg mean in compression socks
20-30 mmHg is considered the norm for compression socks. The most common value of pressure intensity is 20-30 mmHg of pressure. This can be measured by looking at your sock’s packaging or by using a sphygmomanometer (a medical device that measures pressure). A good rule of thumb is to look for 20-30 mmHg on the label
Compression socks help to increase blood flow and reduce swelling, making the veins easier to see while they perform the tests. 20-30 mmHg are an average range of what the vast majority of people’s ankle-CV1 pressure measurements should be while they sleep. The ideal range for your pressure measurement is between 15-30 mmHg, but if average measurements are in excess of 30 then you should speak with your health professional about starting treatment before any changes occur in tissues like skin and muscle.
What Level of Compression Socks Do I Need? (A Guide to mmHg Pressure Levels)
Which Compression Level is Best for You?
Each individual can find the compression range best suited to their needs by learning about the classification of compression socks. Pressure socks with compression levels that are 30-40 mmHg or lower do not require a doctor’s prescription and can be picked up online through ComproGear or select pharmacies.
For very high compression ranges, you should consult with your doctor before using. Higher pressure ratings should only be worn when recommended by a physician, as some medical conditions don’t respond well to compression hose.
Let’s take a look at the common pressure ratings for pressure socks you’ll find on the market:
Light Compression: 8-15 mmHg
A light compression range of 8-15 mmHg is gentle enough to be tolerated well by nearly any wearer. Garments falling in this range are:
- Ideal for individuals who occasionally experience minor swelling or edema symptoms.
- Individuals who want to prevent the feelings of soreness, pain and fatigue from long periods of sitting at work or while traveling.
- People who do not have any specific leg conditions or diseases but who wish to protect their feet and ankles from minor injuries.
- Pregnant mothers during the initial stages of their pregnancy can also use light compression socks to improve blood flow through the legs.
- For people who want to stay fit and keep themselves feeling energized.
Mild Compression: 15-20 mmHg
This mild compression range of 15-20 mmHg is the second most commonly used compression level. Support garments in this range are ideal for:
- People suffering from minor to moderate spider veins or varicose veins or who are prone to them.
- Individuals who face minor to moderate swelling and edema symptoms.
- Those that need to reduce the risks of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis).
- Pregnant mothers who suspect symptoms of venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
- People who prefer a more gentle squeeze on their legs and feel uncomfortable wearing moderate or high-compression stockings.
- Long-distance travelers who experience edema, swollen legs and discomfort during travel via road or by air for long hours.
- Many athletes, runners and workout enthusiasts who prefer a mild compression range.
Moderate Compression: 20-30 mmHg
A moderate pressure level of 20-30 mmHg compression stockings is the most common and also the most readily available. Although they are labelled as Class-I Medical-Grade garments, you do not need a prescription to get a pair. Moderate compression is perfect for:
- Patients with moderate to severe edema, swollen feet and ankles.
- Suitable to control the progression of varicose veins, DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and spider veins.
- Individuals recovering from surgery, medical procedures or post-sclerotherapy treatment.
- Nurses, emergency crews, medical staff and doctors who endure long, strenuous shifts.
- Pregnant mothers who are fighting leg conditions like varicose veins, spider veins or lymphedema.
- People who recently underwent treatment for ulcers, thrombophlebitis, post-thrombotic syndrome and may be prone to such conditions in the future.
- Gymnasts and some football players also prefer moderate compression for enhanced muscle performance.
Need a Pair of 20-30 mmHg Compression Socks?
ComproGear Compression Socks are designed with your needs in mind!
Click the button below to see the lineup of ComproGear Compression Socks:
High Compression: 30-40 mmH
High compression or Medical-Grade Class-II support garments offer a pressure rating of 30-40 mmHg.
Some clinics refer to this range as firm compression. These high compression levels can be useful for:
- Severe cases of edema, varicose veins, DVT, spider veins and progressing lymphedema.
- Patients with chronic orthostatic hypotension and rapidly increasing venous insufficiencies in the legs.
- Post-surgical recovery or treatment of active ulcer manifestations.
- Preventing the reappearance of ulcers, varicose veins and clotting after surgery.
- Preventing blood clots
Very High Compression: 40-50 mmHg
These Medical-Grade Class-III support garments offer the highest level of compression.
You can buy these with a doctor’s prescription and must use them only under your physician’s recommendation.
They can be helpful in wound management and some severe cases of lymphedema.
Remember that 40-50 mmHg is a firm compression and can be detrimental to your health if not used according to professional medical advice.
Pressure Levels of Compression Socks
Support garments such as compression socks or sleeves all have one common purpose: to apply constant pressure on a specific part of the wearer’s body.
Gravity is always working against your heart as it pumps blood throughout the body. As a result, your blood and lymph fluids experience a constant gravitational pull downwards. Although our circulatory system is able to pump nutrient-rich oxygenated blood to all parts of the body, gravity can make that more difficult.
Compression socks are your most reliable defense against the adverse effects of gravity. The are usually made from durable elastic material and breathable fabrics strong enough to compress the veins of the legs. This keeps circulation healthy.
Despite a wide range of brands being available on the market today, the standard units of mmHg (millimeters of mercury) are used by all to classify compression stockings.
Often times, compression is applied in a graduated pattern, meaning the pressure slowly decreases from the bottom to the top of the compression garment. The ankle region will have the maximum amount of compression while the knee region (in case of knee-high socks) will have less compression
