Unlike regular socks and stockings, medical grade compression therapy legwear uses strong elastic fibers to constrict the legs, ankles and feet. This pressure forces circulating blood to more readily return to the heart rather than pool in the feet, which provides relief for heavy, aching, swollen limbs. Therapeutic compression garments can help treat and prevent a number of serious venous medical conditions, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT)—vein clots that can lead to pulmonary embolism, phlebitis (inflammation) and lymphedema (swelling). Compression-style legwear is measured in millimeters of mercury, or mmHg. Compression levels vary from mild to extra firm to treat various venous medical conditions and diseases.
As opposed to gradient compression legwear, anti-embolism compression stockings are intended for individuals who are not ambulatory, but rather spend long periods in a bed or chair during surgery recovery or recuperation. Intended for temporary use, this type of compression stocking is employed to improve lymph and blood circulation to prevent thrombosis (clots) and blood coagulation. Anti-embolism wear is not graduated; it provides the same level of compression throughout the garment. The fabric of anti-embolism garments is thicker than regular hosiery or stockings.
Commonly referred to as T.E.D. stockings to reflect the namesake of a popular brand, anti-embolism stockings are typically low-compression nylons that do not require a prescription. Anti-embolism stockings are often seamless for comfort and may be closed toe or feature an opening near the toe to inspect the skin. TED anti-embolism stockings are available in various colors and lengths, including knee high socks, thigh high stockings and waist high compression hosiery. At Home Health Medical, anti-embolism hosiery is available in single pairs or case quantities for professional medical use.