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Compression stockings - Background information
What are they?
- Compression stockings are useful for treating conditions associated with chronic venous insufficiency, including post-thrombotic syndrome, varicose veins, venous eczema, lipodermatosclerosis, and venous ulcers.
- They provide graduated pressure from the distal to proximal portion of the leg and increase venous blood flow by improving the action of the calf-muscle pump.
- They vary in degree of compression (class), length (below knee or thigh length), colour, and whether they enclose the whole foot or stop just before the toes (closed or open toe).
- Stockings prescribed in primary care follow the British standard for class of compression:
- Class 1 stockings (light compression) exert a pressure of 14–17 mmHg at the ankle.
- Class 2 stockings (medium compression) exert an ankle pressure of 18–24 mmHg.
- Class 3 stockings (high compression) exert an ankle pressure of 25–35 mmHg.
- Hospital departments may provide stockings which follow the European standard, which provide a stronger degree of compression for each class. For example, class 2 in the European standard provides a pressure of 23–32 mmHg.
- Graduated compression tights are also available but cannot be prescribed on the NHS; they can be bought from pharmacies or directly from the manufacturer.
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