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Compression Therapy

Compression Socks

Graduated compression socks are not like any other sock, nylons or tights. Graduated compression socks are either medical grade (20-30 mmHg+), measured and custom fit to you, or over-the-counter (15-20 mmHg) and fit to your shoe size. Compression socks are made with a pressure gradient system measured in mmHg and are tighter at the ankle and decrease up the length of your sock. The higher the compression level in mmHg, the more support you will receive. The level of support and compression garment you require will depend on your condition, lifestyle, budget and personal preference. Compression socks are available in many styles, fabrics and colours.

Medical grade compression socks may be prescribed by your doctor or nurse practitioner. You can find over-the-counter compression socks at pharmacies and our BioPed locations.

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Medical Grade Compression Socks

What are Medical Grade Compression Socks?

Medical grade compression socks start at 20 – 30 mmHg+ and provide graduated support from the ankle up the leg. They act like a massage, pumping the blood up your legs against gravity. Medical grade compression socks require a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner and are measured and fit by a Certified Compression Fitter at one of our BioPed locations. Your extended health insurance plan may have coverage for compression socks.

Why do I need compression socks?

Compression socks help reduce leg pain, by improving blood flow and reducing swelling. You may suffer from tired, achy legs from standing or sitting, or suffer from more serious problems like swelling, varicose veins or venous disease. You may need the support of compression socks to help prevent and manage pain. Compression socks can help manage swelling and pain after surgery, when travelling, during pregnancy and enhance performance during activities.

What’s next?

It can be hard to know what length and support is needed. Our certified compression fitters assist you in reviewing what options are best for your needs and work with your doctor for next steps. Our clinical team will take measurements and show you available styles, colours and fabrics. Medical grade compression socks (20-30mmHg+) require a prescription from your doctor or nurse practitioner. Although a prescription is not required to schedule an appointment, your extended health plan may require one for coverage. If you have a prescription, please bring it with you and book an appointment with our team.

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Over-the-counter Compression Socks

What are Over-the-Counter Compression Socks?

Over-the-counter compression socks start at 15-20 mmHg and provide graduated support starting at the ankle up the leg. They act like a massage, pumping the blood up your legs against gravity. Over-the-counter compression socks do not require a prescription. They provide a lower amount of support than medical grade but still help reduce swelling and improve blood flow. Over-the-counter socks require your shoe size to determine your fit and may not provide as precise of a fit as medical grade compression socks.

Why do I need compression socks?

Compression socks all help reduce leg pain, by improving blood flow and reduce swelling. You may suffer from tired, achy legs from standing or sitting, or need the support of compression socks to help prevent and manage pain. Over-the-counter compression socks can help manage swelling and pain after surgery, when travelling, during pregnancy and enhance performance during activities. They come in a variety of fashionable styles, designs and fabrics.

What’s next?

Compression socks all help reduce leg pain, by improving blood flow and reduce swelling. You may suffer from tired, achy legs from standing or sitting, or need the support of compression socks to help prevent and manage pain. Over-the-counter compression socks can help manage swelling and pain after surgery, when travelling, during pregnancy and enhance performance during activities. They come in a variety of fashionable styles, designs and fabrics.

Book an appointment