Compression Levels

Understanding Compression Levels: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Needs

Compression levels play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness and comfort of compression wear. At Ames Walker, we’re committed to helping you find the right level of compression to support your lifestyle, health goals, and medical needs. Whether you’re looking to relieve mild discomfort, improve circulation, or manage specific medical conditions, understanding compression levels is the first step. This guide explains the differences between light, moderate, firm, and extra-firm compression levels, helping you make an informed decision for optimal support and wellness.

  • Mild

    8-15 mmHg

    • Everyday Compression
    • Maintain Leg Health
    • Energize Blood Flow
    • Diabetes
    • Aching / Fatigued legs
    • Minor varicose veins
    • Moderate spider veins
    • Helps reduce swelling / edema

  • Moderate

    15-20 mmHg

    • Everyday Compression
    • Flying or Traveling
    • Mild Swelling & Fatigue
    • Aching / Fatigued legs
    • Pre / Post vein procedures
    • Helps prevent varicose / spider veins
    • Helps minor swelling / edema
    • Helps reduce the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

  • Firm

    20-30 mmHg

    • Most-Used Compression
    • Varicose Veins & Certain Surgeries
    • Pregnancy
    • Pre / Post vein procedures
    • Helps prevent varicose / spider veins during pregnancy
    • Prevention of minor to moderate varicose / spider veins
    • Mild Venous Insufficiency
    • Pre / Post surgical (Sclerotherapy, Phlembectomy, Vein Stripping, Orthopaedics)
    • Heps prevent recurrence of venous ulcerations
    • Moderate swelling / edema
    • Superficial Thrombophlebitis
    • Lymphedema
    • Helps prevent moderate to severe varicose veins
    • Helps prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

  • Extra Firm

    30-40 mmHg

    • Moderate to Severe Venous Deficiencies
    • Blood Clots or Deep Vein Thrombosis
    • Lymphedema
    • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
    • Pre / Post vein procedures
    • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
    • Moderate / Severe Lymphedema
    • Moderate / Post traumatic swelling / edema
    • Orthostatic Hypotension
    • Post Phlembectomy
    • Pre / Post surgical (Sclerotherapy, Phlembectomy, Vein Stripping, Orthopaedics)
    • Used in treatment for severe edema
    • Post Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS)
    • Active / Post venous ulcers

  • Severe

    40-50 mmHg

    • Very Strong Compression
    • Severe Venous Stasis & Lymphedema
    • Other Severe Conditions
    • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
    • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
    • Severe Lymphedema

This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your doctor about which compression level is suitable for you.