Compression Strength Guide

8-15 mmHg: This is the lightest form of compression, which is great for energizing your legs. These types of socks provide relief from tired and achy legs. They also help control minor swelling by gently enhancing circulation in the legs.

15-20 mmHg: The mild compression of 15-20 mmHg socks provides relief from minor to moderate swelling, aching, and varicose veins, especially during pregnancy. They are great for preventing deep vein thrombosis (or economy class syndrome) while traveling, but they’re also good for anyone who stands or sits for long periods of time.

20-30 mmHg: The most frequently prescribed level, 20-30 mmHg compression socks offer moderate compression and can be used to treat a variety of mild to moderate conditions. This level can provide relief from varicose veins, edema, deep vein thrombosis, and post-sclerotherapy. This level is also referred to as Class I or firm compression.

 Condition Severity Compression Level
Aching Legs Mild 8-15 or 15-20 mmHg
Diabetes
8-15 mmHg or No Compression
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
20-30 or 30-40 mmHg
Dysautonomia (POTS)
20-30 or 30-40 mmHg
Edema Mild
15-20 mmHg
Edema Moderate
20-30 mmHg
Edema Severe 30-40 mmHg
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)
15-20 or 20-30 mmHg
Lymphedema
20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg
May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS)
20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg
Orthostatic Hypotension
20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg
Deep Vein Thrombosis
20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg
Post-Surgical
20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg
Pregnancy
15-20 or 20-30 mmHg
Swelling Mild
15-20 mmHg
Swelling Moderate
20-30 mmHg
Swelling Severe
30-40 mmHg
Spider Veins
15-20 mmHg
Tired Legs Mild
15-20 mmHg
Varicose Veins Mild
15-20 mmHg
Varicose Veins Moderate
20-30 mmHg
Varicose Veins Severe
30-40 mmHg
Venous Insufficiency Varies
Venous Stasis Ulcer
30-40 mmHg