Medical Compression — Frequently Asked Questions

Compression socks apply gentle, graduated pressure (firmest at the ankle, easing up the leg) to support healthy blood flow, reduce swelling, and ease symptoms related to varicose veins, prolonged sitting/standing, pregnancy, travel, and certain post-surgical needs. There are also consistent pressure (non-graduated) garments used for specific conditions such as lymphedema and scar management.

Common reasons include varicose veins, venous disease, chronic venous insufficiency, edema (swelling), and lymphedema (with sleeves/gauntlets), plus pregnancy, travel, and post-operative recovery when recommended by a clinician. If you want to read more about venous issues, see our Compression Socks for Venous Disorders article; if you want to read more about lymphedema, see our Lymphedema Guide.

Quick guide:

• 15–20 mmHg: Prevention, travel, mild swelling, tired/achy legs, long periods of sitting or standing.
• 20–30 mmHg: Varicose veins, venous disease, moderate swelling, some post-op needs, pregnancy with symptoms (per clinician advice).
• 30–40 mmHg: Advanced cases of venous disease or lymphedema — use when specifically recommended by your clinician.

The right level is the one that’s appropriate for your condition and safe for your circulation. Not sure? Ask our healthcare team.

Knee-highs are most popular and easier to don. Thigh-highs or pantyhose are used when symptoms or swelling extend above the knee, or when full-leg coverage is recommended.

Open-toe can improve comfort for wider feet and works well with forefoot dressings; closed-toe offers a traditional sock feel and full coverage. Pressure is the same either way.

Microfiber is smooth and durable; cotton feels natural and breathable; wool regulates temperature well. Choose based on climate, skin sensitivity, and preference.

Sheer stockings are excellent for treating venous insufficiency and offer a discreet, dress-friendly look. However, they are not as effective at controlling swelling as opaque (thicker) knits, which provide more containment for edema. If swelling is your main concern, consider opaque styles or consult our fitters for guidance.

Compression levels are the same; differences are mainly in size ranges, foot length, calf room, and colourways. Use your measurements first, then pick your preferred style.

Yes — graduated compression socks are often recommended during pregnancy to help reduce swelling in the legs and feet, improve circulation, and prevent varicose veins. They can also be helpful after childbirth, especially if you’re experiencing lingering swelling or circulation issues.

We typically recommend 15–20 mmHg for mild swelling and comfort during pregnancy, or 20–30 mmHg if prescribed by your healthcare provider. Some waist-high compression products are specifically designed for maternity, offering extra comfort and gentle abdominal support.

Measure first thing in the morning before swelling builds:

• Ankle circumference at the narrowest point above the ankle bone
• Calf circumference at the widest point
• Leg length (floor to back of knee for knee-highs)

Then compare your measurements to the brand’s size chart. For a step-by-step guide with photos, see our article How to Measure for Compression Socks & Stockings. Donning (putting on) aids can make it easier — browse our Compression Accessories. Need help from a fitter? Ask our Healthcare Team.

Look for wide-calf, plus, petite, or long options in the size chart. Many brands offer extended sizes and lengths for a precise fit. We also carry wide-calf sizes and maternity options across major brands to ensure a comfortable, effective fit — ask our certified fitters if you’re unsure which line to choose.

For medical-grade compression, always use leg measurements. Shoe size alone isn’t accurate for pressure-based garments.

Yes — our brand-certified fitters can guide you and provide fit checks when needed. Ask our healthcare team.

Most people wear them during waking hours (especially when standing or sitting for long periods) and remove them for sleep unless a clinician advises otherwise.

Generally no — graduated compression is designed for upright activity. Only wear overnight if specifically recommended by your clinician.

Typically every 4–6 months with regular wear and proper care. Elastic fibres relax over time, reducing effective pressure.

Hand-wash or use a gentle cycle in cool water; avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Helpful extras like donning (putting on) gloves and mesh wash bags — plus doffing (taking off) aids — are in our Compression Accessories. Aftercare questions? Ask our healthcare team.

You can purchase most compression products without a prescription. However, many insurers require a prescription (often for 20–30 mmHg and above) to approve reimbursement. Check your plan’s rules.

Many private plans reimburse all or part of medical-grade compression with a prescription and detailed receipt. Compression purchases from Orthomed are accepted by insurance companies. Coverage varies by plan and province; contact your insurer for specifics.

Medical-grade compression depends on precise pressure and sizing. Buying from authorized Canadian retailers helps ensure genuine, licensed products, current size charts, and support from brand-certified fitters. We carry leading brands:

• Sigvaris
• Juzo
• Jobst
• Medi
• Bauerfeind

Online marketplaces can mix third-party sellers with variable quality control; always verify seller authorization and return policies. Questions about authenticity or fit? Ask our healthcare team.

Yes — as an authorized Canadian retailer, OrthoMed sells Health Canada–licensed products from trusted brands and provides access to brand-certified fitters. Buying online is safe and convenient when the retailer is reputable and supports you with sizing and aftercare. Compression purchases from Orthomed are accepted by insurance companies. Not sure what to choose? Ask our healthcare team.

Compression arm sleeves are designed to improve circulation and reduce swelling in the arm, particularly for lymphedema. Many use graduated compression (highest at the wrist, decreasing toward the shoulder), while others — such as certain wraps — provide consistent compression.

Compression wraps and short-stretch bandages are often used in the intensive (reduction) phase to bring swelling down quickly before transitioning to a garment. Once swelling is reduced and measurements are stable, most people move to a compression sleeve (for arms) or graduated compression socks/stockings (for legs) for ongoing maintenance. OrthoMed’s certified fitters can recommend the right product and ensure you get the correct size and compression level.

You can, but accurate measurement is essential. For lymphedema garments we recommend consulting with OrthoMed’s certified fitters to ensure correct size and compression level for safe, effective treatment. Learn more in our Lymphedema Guide.

Re-check measurements; a different size or length may help. Donning aids and latex-free adhesive lotion (for thigh-highs) can improve hold. Avoid folding the top band — it can create a tourniquet effect.

Ensure correct sizing and smooth fabric (no wrinkles). Wash before first wear and after each use. If irritation persists or you have skin breakdown, stop use and consult a clinician.

No. The best level is the one appropriate for your needs and safe for your circulation. Higher pressure without indication can be uncomfortable or counter-productive.

When fitted correctly, graduated compression socks are designed to improve blood flow — not restrict it. They apply the highest pressure at the ankle and gradually decrease up the leg, which encourages healthy venous return.

Circulation problems can occur if the socks are the wrong size, the compression level is too high for your needs, or the fabric bunches or rolls and creates a tight band. People with significant arterial disease or certain skin conditions should consult a clinician before use.

For safety and comfort, take accurate measurements and follow brand size charts. If you’d like help, OrthoMed’s certified fitters can confirm sizing and the appropriate compression level for your situation — ask our healthcare team.

If you experience pain, numbness, colour change, or skin breakdown while wearing compression, remove the garment and seek medical advice.

Donning (putting on) / doffing (taking off) aids, rubber grip gloves, adhesive lotion (for thigh-highs), and mesh wash bags can make application and care easier. Explore our Compression Accessories.