If you have varicose veins which cause discomfort, heaviness or achiness; or if you are recovering from surgery or are deemed to be at risk of developing vein problems in your legs, you may be recommended compression stockings.

Compression stockings are a garment which improves circulation in the legs. They contain an element of stretch fabric which works to put pressure on the lower legs. The ‘squeeze’ exerted on the legs works to encourage circulation of the blood and prevent it from pooling or clogging, which makes the veins weaker.

Choosing the right type of compression stockings can be very confusing.

Compression stockings come in a variety of strengths which give a different amount of compression to the lower leg area. Strength of compression is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). This is varied by use of more or less ‘stretch’ element in the fabric as well as the fit. There are 4 main compression levels to consider.

Guide to Compression Stockings

Mild Compression (8-15 mmHg)

• Designed to help maintain healthy legs or prevent future problems in those at risk
• Relieve tired, aching legs as well as minor swelling in the lower leg
• Useful after long periods of sitting or standing
• Useful during pregnancy to help prevent leg vein problems

Moderate Compression (15-20 mmHg)

• Relief for minor-moderate varicose/thread vein problems
• Relieve tired, aching legs as well as minor swelling in the lower leg
• Useful during pregnancy to help prevent leg vein problems
• Worn in long-haul travel to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Used after sclerotherapy treatment to help prevent recurrence of varicose veins/thread vein problems

Firm Compression (20-30 mmHg)

• Relieve moderate-severe varicose/thread vein problems, as well as swelling in the lower leg
• Used after sclerotherapy treatment or surgery to help prevent recurrence of varicose veins/thread vein problems
• Recommended for those with ulcers or inflammations associated with varicose veins
• Worn in long-haul travel to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Extra Firm Compression (30-40 mmHg)

• The strongest level of compression for the most severe vein problems
• Relief for severe varicose or thread veins and/or swelling of feet/ankles/legs
• Used after sclerotherapy treatment or surgery to help prevent recurrence of varicose veins/thread vein problems
• Recommended for those with ulcers or inflammations associated with varicose veins
• Worn in long-haul travel to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Compression Stockings vs Surgery

Compression stockings are helpful for easing the discomfort and symptoms of varicose veins, but they won’t cure them. The only long-term solution is to have treatment.

The traditional method is known as ‘vein stripping’ – which involves surgical removal of the collapsed vein.

Now, the latest ‘laser varicose vein surgery’ is available and offers a very attractive alternative. EVLA (endovenous laser ablation) which offers excellent results and a much faster recovery than traditional vein stripping surgery. The procedure is carried out on a day case basis and there is no general anaesthetic and no inconvenient hospital stay. Patients can walk out of the clinic.