Choosing the Right Compression Stockings

A pair of woman's legs with compression stockings while sitting on the gray chair.

Choosing the Right Compression Stockings

Many people can benefit from compression stockings, whether or not they have a diagnosed medical condition. These garments work by exerting pressure on the veins, and promoting the circulation of blood and lympathic fluids. This can serve to reduce swelling and numbness in the lower legs, alleviate aches and pains, and support healing.

Compression stockings are available with various grades of compression, and the highest grades are only available by prescription. These medical-grade compression stockings break down further into categories intended to treat specific conditions. If you require medical-grade compression stockings, your doctor will specify the appropriate level of compression.

This guide from Shan Medical Equipment can give you a head start on figuring out which compression stockings are right for you. If you need more advice, feel free to consult our qualified staff. You can find us in Sterling Heights and Dearborn Heights, MI.

A Guide to Compression Grades

All compression garments are rated with a system that measures compression by millimeters of mercury. This measurement is abbreviated as mmHg. The higher the mmHg, the higher the level of compression, and garments with mmHg ratings higher than 20 are usually reserved for medical use. Compression garments are classified as follows:

  • Over the Counter: 15-20 mmHg
  • Medical Grade Class 1: 20-30 mmHg
  • Medical Grade Class 2: 30-40 mmHg
  • Medical Grade Class 3: 40-50 mmHg


A woman is putting compression stocking on her leg while sitting on the sofa.

Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that are close to the skin. While often considered more of a cosmetic concern than a serious health issue, varicose veins can result in complications when left untreated. Compression stockings can reduce the likelihood of these complications, and relieve the discomfort associated with varicose veins.
Elastic compression stockings with compression grades that range from 20-30 mmHg are the most widely recommended option for treating varicose veins. In more severe cases, such as when varicose veins are combined with edema, an inelastic compression wrap may be used.



A woman wears compression stockings on her legs.

Compression Stockings for Venous Leg Ulcers

Venous leg ulcers are long-lasting sores that can develop after a minor injury as a result of poor circulation. They are often accompanied by swelling in the feet and ankles, which is caused by fluid retention. In addition to being painful, venous leg ulcers are highly susceptible to bacterial infection. They can take more than a month to heal, during which time it is very important to keep the affected area clean.
Compression bandages are applied during the acute stage of a venous leg ulcer. After the ulcer has healed over, knee-length graduated compression stockings are often used to support continued healing and prevent a recurrence. Compression grades of 30 to 40 mmHg are appropriate for this application.

Close up of a leg and a compression stocking for lymphedema.

Compression Stockings for Lymphedema

Lymphedema can be described as a traffic jam in the lymphatic system. This condition occurs when fluids are unable to flow freely through the lymphatic vessels. Very mild cases of lymphedema can be treated with over-the-counter compression stockings, whereas more severe cases will require class 2 or 3 medical-grade stockings. Your doctor might also recommend several phases of compression treatment depending on the extent of your condition.

A pregnant woman wears compression stockings while sitting on a gray chair.

Compression Stockings for Pregnancy

Pregnancy can greatly increase the risk of damage to the venous system, in part because the muscles that support the vein walls are weakened by the higher levels of progesterone in the body. The use of graduated compression stockings can provide the necessary counterbalance to maintain proper circulation. Over-the-counter compression grades are usually adequate for this purpose.


No matter what kind of compression stockings you need, Shan Medical Equipment has you covered. You can shop a wide selection of compression garments at our stores in Sterling Heights and Dearborn Heights, MI.

Sterling Heights, MI

(586) 268-4100

Contact Shan Medical Equipment

Contact us for all your durable medical equipment needs! We're here to help. Feel free to call us or stop into either of our Michigan locations today!

Dearborn Heights, MI

(313) 843-3006