Compression therapy is a medical treatment that is used to increase blood flow through the limbs back to the heart by using compression or support stockings. Compression therapy is used to treat chronic venous diseases and circulation conditions.
Compression stockings work by applying gentle, gradual pressure to your ankles, calves, and thighs (if necessary) in order to promote blood flow from the legs to the heart and prevent pooling of the blood in the veins (which can cause varicose and/or “spider” veins). Compression stockings are also used to reduce leg pain, swelling in the ankles and legs, and may help reduce the possibility of developing blood clots.
Compression therapy is most commonly measured by the amount of pressure, or mmHg, that is used in the garment. Compression therapy may also be known as gradient or gradual compression therapy, as the pressure in the garment will gradually decrease as the garment moves up the limb. This means that the compression hosiery will be tightest at the ankle, for example, in a lower extremity garment, and will decrease in pressure as it moves up the leg.
Compression stockings are an effective treatment for many health conditions, but getting the right fit is essential for them to work properly. Our staff at Custom Orthotic Design Group Ltd. and The Bracing and Orthotic Centre at the Credit Valley Hospital are Certified Fitters with the Ontario Ministry of Health Assistive Device Program (ADP), which means we have specialized training to help you choose the best compression wear for your needs.
The right fit is crucial because compression stockings are not suitable for everyone, and if they’re worn incorrectly or at the wrong time, they can cause harm. Our trained Certified Fitters will take precise measurements and guide you in selecting the correct compression level, style, size, and color. We are committed to ensuring you receive the highest quality care and that your compression therapy is both safe and effective.
Let us help you find the perfect fit to support your health and comfort.
There are various levels of compression. The level of compression is selected based on your individual medical needs.
Mild: 8-15 & 15-20 mmHg
Medium : 20-30 & 30-40 mmHg
Firm: 40-50 & 50+ mmHg
You may need to use compression if:
Non-medical: You can purchase non-medical compression stockings at our retail location, The Orthotic Centre at The Credit Valley Hospital. No appointment is necessary.
Medical: For medical grade compression, we will need to measure you and order your size and compression level. You will need to have a prescription from your doctor or nurse practitioner. You can drop into our retail location at The Orthotic Centre at The Credit Valley Hospital or book an appointment at our other offices.
Compression therapy is available in two groups: medical compression and non-medical compression.
Medical (or moderate to firm) compression wear are socks, sleeves (arm or leg), thigh-highs, or pantyhose that are measured in pressure 20 mmHg or higher. A physician or nurse practitioner will prescribe compression therapy for a variety of reasons or diagnoses.
Non-medical (or mild) compression wear does not require a physician’s prescription and are also known as “Over-The-Counter” compression.
