Frequently Asked Questions

What does compression hosiery do?

True gradient compression stockings improve blood flow. 

Therafirm stockings are designed to deliver a controlled amount of pressure which is greatest at the distal end (ankle) of the garment and gradually decreases towards the proximal end (top) of the stocking.

This gradient pressure promotes better circulation to help control swelling and relieve tired and achy legs.

 

What does mmHg stand for? 

The abbreviation mmHg stands for millimeters of Mercury.

This measurement is used to measure pressure. Since gradient compression hosiery exert a gradually decreasing amount of pressure up the leg, this unit of measure helps express the amount of pressure the wearer will feel.

What are levels of compression? 

checkChoosing the Right Compression Level.

Therafirm gradient compression is available in five different levels. The higher the number, the higher the support. If you have not utilized gradient compression stockings recently, it may be a good idea to start low and work your way up to the desired compression level.

As always, consult with your health care provider to determine the best compression level for you.

10-15mmHg* Light Support

15-20mmHg* Mild Support

20-30mmHg* Moderate Support

30-40mmHg* Firm Support

Energize tired legs and feet.
Improves circulation.
Improves circulation.
Improves circulation.
Improves circulation.
Tired, aching, fatigued legs.
Tired, aching, fatigued legs.
Tired, aching, fatigued legs.
Assist in the prevention of swelling.
Mild ankle and leg swelling.
Moderate ankle and leg swelling.
Moderate to severe ankle and leg swelling.
Mild swelling during pregnancy.
Moderate swelling during pregnancy.
Moderate to severe swelling during pregnancy.

 

* The mean compression for an average ankle size.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Compression products should not be worn and is contraindicated if you have any of the following conditions: severe arterial insufficiency, cutaneous infections, acute dermatitis, wet dermatosis, uncontrolled congestive heart failure, skin irritations, allergies to dyes.

Why is gradient compression tighter than my regular hosiery?

Gradient compression hosiery products are constructed differently than traditional hosiery. True gradient compression hosiery products feature a controlled amount of pressure that is greatest at the ankle and gradually decreases as it comes up the leg.

This graduated compression helps promote better circulation, prevent swelling and energize tired achy legs. Many people who have never worn gradient compression before feel that these garments are difficult to put on or tighter than traditional pantyhose or tights they have worn. It is this “snug” fit that is providing the graduated pressure. 

However, gradient compression hosiery should not be so tight that they are uncomfortable and/or are digging into your legs or waist. Normally, compression is only too tight when the wrong size is being worn. 

It is very important for people to measure following the guidelines for the gradient compression garment to ensure a proper fit and that they are receiving the benefits of graduated compression. 

 

NOTE:  If pain, discomfort, or areas of binding occur, the stockings should be removed immediately.  Always consult with your physician before wearing gradient compression garments.

What is the difference between "support."compression".and gradient compression?

Support, compression and gradient compression are seen as interchangeable, but they are not all created equal! Support often refers to control top.

Support pantyhose do not provide any gradient compression or compression in the product except for the thigh and tummy area.

Compression normally refers to a product that provides equal pressure through the garment. It will feel tight all over. Gradient compression products are provide the tightest ‘squeeze’ or pressure at the ankle and gradually decrease the pressure or ‘squeeze’ up the leg. This helps to improve circulation, to energize tired legs, and to prevent and reduce swelling.

How do I know what size to order?

    1. Patients should be measured when they first get up in the morning. This helps prevent the fitter from measuring based upon the affected area’s circumference after swelling has occurred.

    2. Measure the patient while he or she is standing. If the fitting can not take place before the patient has been on his/her feet for some time, the patient’s legs and feet should be elevated for 15 minutes prior to taking the measurements.

    3. Take snug measurements against the skin.

    4. Avoid measuring over socks or slacks.

    5. Never allow folds in stockings.

    6. Never remove any wound dressings.

    7. Stockings should not be too tight over dressings.

    8. Socks must fit the shape of the foot.

    9. Socks should have even compression or elasticity so that the sock takes on the anatomical shape of the foot without high compression (binding points) that may create discomfort or circulation obstruction.

    10. Observe the bare foot prior to donning the sock.

    11. After donning the sock, the foot shape should be consistent with that of  the bare foot.

 

Do your Therafirm products fit tall customers?

check Absolutely! Our products will fit men and women up to 6 feet tall.

Our pantyhoseknee highs, and Core-Spun socks are perfect for plus sizes.

If you have questions on sizing, don’t hesitate to contact us!