Compression stockings come in different length types (bellow the knee, thigh and pantyhose), foot styles (closed or open toe) and compression range, which is measured in mmHg (millimetres of mercury). There are designated medical indications for each compression class:

Light compression -10-20mmHg- used for mild varicosity, often purchased over the counter.

Moderate compression – 20-30mmHg (CCL1) – used in relation to a conditions of the superficial veins. Post-surgical, minor varicosities, minor ankle, leg and foot swelling, heaviness and fatigue in legs, post sclerotherapy, initial varicosities or prophylactic treatment during pregnancy, superficial thrombophlebitis, hereditary disposition toward vein disease.

Strong compression – 30-40mmHg (CCL 2) – used for conditions within the superficial and deep systems. Moderate varicosities and edema, lymphatic edema, management and prevention of venous ulcers, orthostatic hypotension, post-surgical, post-sclerotherapy, effective scar formation after burns, pregnancy with previous phlebitis, stasis dermatitis due to CVI.

Very strong -40-50mmHg (CCL3) – used for advanced conditions and chronic venous insufficiency or venous ulceration.  Severe varicosities, severe edema, lymphatic edema, management of venous ulcers, post- phlebitis syndrome, chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), reversible lymphedema, venous ulcers, post-surgery, orthostatic hypotension.