Knee High Compression Stockings
Compression Stockings For Lymphedema And Other Conditions - Legs (Knee High)
Knee high compression stockings are a traditional means of providing compression and support to the lower leg in helping to manage and treat lower extremity Lymphedema, deep vein thrombosis ("DVT") and venous insufficiencies, or for simple swelling, tired and aching feet.
••••••••••••••••••••Please note: With the passage of the Lymphedema Treatment Act (LTA), effective January 1, 2024, Medicare began to pay for lymphedema products for those who have Medicare B coverage and meet certain other coverage criteria. Please visit our website page covering the details of the Lymphedema Treatment Act to obtain more information about how Medicare pays for lymphedema garments, wraps, and bandages.
Medicare Pays For Lymphedema Products
Please note: Thanks to the Lymphedema Treatment Act, which took effect on January 1, 2024, Medicare began to pay for lymphedema products for those who have Medicare B coverage and meet certain other coverage criteria. Please visit our website page covering the details of the Lymphedema Treatment Act to obtain more information about how Medicare pays for lymphedema garments, wraps, and bandages.
Compression Stockings For Lymphedema And Other Conditions - Legs (Knee High)
A knee high compression stocking is usually worn during the secondary, or "maintenance" phase of Lymphedema treatment after completion of complete decongestive therapy, or "CDT". Knee high compression stockings are made in a variety of sizes and colors, and are especially designed to fit the various anatomical structures of the lower leg.
Knee high compression stockings are rated as to the amount of compression they apply, and it is important to choose the correct compression level that is required. Compression is measured in units referred to as millimeters of mercury or "mmHg", and should selected for treatment as follows.
While knee high compression stockings may be difficult to don and take off there are an array of donning and doffing aids which will help the patient to easily use them. Also be sure to protect your investment by using detergents that are specially formulated for compression garments.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••FAQs About Knee High Compression Stockings
Compression stockings help reduce swelling in the legs and are often used to treat lymphedema, edema, chronic venous insufficiency, post-surgical swelling, and other medical conditions. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about knee high compression stockings (which are also sometimes referred to as leg sleeves or support stockings).
- How Do Knee High Compression Stockings Help With Lymphedema
- Can Knee High Compression Stockings Prevent Lymphedema
- What Are The Most Common Levels Of Compression In Knee High Stockings
- 15-20 mmHg (mild compression)
- 20-30 mmHg (moderate compression)
- 30-40 mmHg (firm compression)
- What Does mmHg Mean In Compression Stockings
- What Does Graduated Compression Mean In Stockings
- How Do I Chose The Right Size And Type Of Compression Stocking
- Can I Exercise While Wearing Knee High Compression Stockings
- How Tight Should My Knee High Compression Stockings Be
- How Long Should I Wear My Knee High Compression Stockings Each Day
- Can I Wear My Knee High Compression Stockings While I Sleep
- What Is The Best Way To Put On And Take Off Knee High Compression Stockings
- How Do I Care For And Clean My Knee High Compression Stockings
- How Often Should I Replace My Knee High Compression Stockings
- Do I Need A Prescription To Get Knee High Compression Stockings
- Do Insurance Companies Cover Knee High Compression Stockings
- Does Medicare Cover Compression Stockings
Knee high compression stockings are designed to apply graduated compression to the lower leg, in order to promote lymphatic and venous flow. The stockings can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Knee high compression stockings cannot help prevent the onset of lymphedema, but they can help manage the symptoms and help prevent the progression of lymphedema.
Knee high compression stockings are categorized by the amount of pressure they apply to the lower leg, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The levels of compression can vary in compression stockings, but the most common ones are:
In compression stockings, mmHg stands for millimeters of mercury and represents the level of pressure (compression) the stockings apply to your legs. This term is borrowed from the same unit used to measure blood pressure, indicating the amount of pressure against the walls of your blood vessels. The higher the mmHg number, the higher the level of compression.
Compression stockings are designed to provide graduated compression, which means that the pressure is highest at your ankle and gradually decreases as it moves up your leg. This design on the stockings helps to promote the flow of blood back towards the heart, which can reduce swelling and prevent the accumulation of fluid in your leg tissues.
For all of our knee high compression stockings, we have sizing charts from the manufacturer. For most knee high compression stockings, you will take measurements at your ankle, at the widest part of your calf, and just below your knee. Your healthcare provider will recommend the compression level.
Check with your healthcare provider. In general, however, wearing compression stockings while exercising can help promote circulation and reduce swelling.
Your knee high compression stockings should be snug enough to apply the correct level of pressure needed to promote blood and lymphatic fluid circulation, without being so tight as to cut off circulation or cause discomfort. If your stockings are fitting correctly, they should lie smoothly against your skin, without bunching up or rolling down (which can cause pressure points and restrict circulation).
Your healthcare provider should make specific recommendations. In general, however, lymphedema compression stockings should be worn during your waking hours.
Your healthcare provider should make specific recommendations. In general, however, wearing compression stockings while you are sleeping is not recommended. In part, this is because the circulatory dynamics of your body change when you are not moving, and the stockings could cause constriction and impede your blood circulation.
If your healthcare provider does recommend compression at night, there are specialized nighttime wear compression garments.
The best way to put on compression stockings is to roll the stocking down to the heel, insert your foot, and unroll it up your leg. To take off the compression stocking, gently roll it off your leg. Special donning and doffing devices can also make it easier to put on and take off compression stockings.
Follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions. In general, however, you should wash your compression stockings by hand, in lukewarm water, with a mild soap. Air dry the stockings, and avoid wringing them out (which can stretch the fabric).
Due to wear and stretch, knee high compression stockings lose elasticity (and effectiveness) over time and generally should be replaced every 3-6 months.
No. You can order all of our knee high compression stockings without a prescription. However, we do recommend that you consult a healthcare professional to ensure that you get the recommended garment, if you are unsure as to what you need.
Some insurance plans cover compression stockings, with a prescription. Check with your insurance provider for specifics about your coverage.
Starting in January 2024, thanks to the Lymphedema Treatment Act, Medicare began covering compression products, including compression stockings. The Medicare Part B coverage is limited to: 3 daytime compression garments per affected body part (every 6 months) and 2 nighttime compression garments per affected body part (every 6 months). Click here to read more about the Lymphedema Treatment Act and how to order compression stockings.
Please note that all of the information above is for general informational purposes. Please consult your healthcare provider for specific information and personalized recommendations for your situation.
For more information about our knee high compression stockings, please call (800) 700-1032, or e-mail info@bandagesplus.com