What is the best level of compression for a RN?

I would like "save" my legs and buy compression stockings. I dont have any other medical problems that would require me to use the stockings other that I am a nurse and am on my feet a lot. What level of comrpession would you recommend I start with?

Answers from doctors (9)


More About Doctor David Green, MD

Published on Jan 03, 2022

You may start with non-prescription gradient compression stockings that are rated 12mm-16mm. If not sufficient, you can increase to 16mm-20mm. Class 1 gradient compression stockings are rated as 20m-30mm and for higher compression, Class 2 gradient compression stockings (30mm-40mm) can be worn. These compressions are what is expected at the ankle with the compression diminishing, i.e., gradient, the higher the stocking. Thigh-high stockings providing greater support than knee-high.

Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile)

You may start with non-prescription gradient compression stockings that are rated 12mm-16mm. If not sufficient, you can increase to 16mm-20mm. Class 1 gradient compression stockings are rated as 20m-30mm and for higher compression, Class 2 gradient compression stockings (30mm-40mm) can be worn. These compressions are what is expected at the ankle with the compression diminishing, i.e., gradient, the higher the stocking. Thigh-high stockings providing greater support than knee-high.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Desert Vein Institute

Published on Apr 20, 2018

If buying over the counter you can get 15-20. But in most states you would need a prescription to buy 20-30. The more compression the better it will be for you if your on your feet all day.

Answered by Desert Vein Institute (View Profile)

If buying over the counter you can get 15-20. But in most states you would need a prescription to buy 20-30. The more compression the better it will be for you if your on your feet all day.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Angelo N. Makris MD

Published on Jan 10, 2012

15 -20

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Answered by Angelo N. Makris MD

15 -20

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Nu Vela Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

10 to 15 mm graduated compression stockings

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Answered by Nu Vela Vein Center

10 to 15 mm graduated compression stockings

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

Usually a knee high 15-20mmhg compression will make your legs feel better and give some support without being uncomfortable.

David A. Engleman M.D.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Usually a knee high 15-20mmhg compression will make your legs feel better and give some support without being uncomfortable.

David A. Engleman M.D.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Jan 10, 2012

You should try to use 20-30mmHg, if you can tolerate them. The least should be 10-15mmHg. I am sure you will get a lot of different opinions from this question....

Dr Farhy

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

You should try to use 20-30mmHg, if you can tolerate them. The least should be 10-15mmHg. I am sure you will get a lot of different opinions from this question....

Dr Farhy

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

Published on Sep 06, 2011

If you are using for prophylaxis, you can use 20-30 mmHg compression stockings for prevention. You are in a higher risk profession, as are doctors, for developing varicose veins from prolonged periods of standing.

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Answered by Vein Center at University Medicine and Cardiology

If you are using for prophylaxis, you can use 20-30 mmHg compression stockings for prevention. You are in a higher risk profession, as are doctors, for developing varicose veins from prolonged periods of standing.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


If you have a family history of varicose veins you will be more prone to develop them. You may want to go to the higher compression. These are the general guidelines found on most websites. Knee high can sometime cause more problems because they cut off the flow of competent veins at the knee. You may want to consider thigh high or pantyhose. These are often less expensive through a physician's office than the local medical supplier; call around.
8-15 MMHG LIGHT COMPRESSION is recommended for:
**Tired, Achy Legs
**Mild Fatigue
**Occupations with long periods of sitting or standing
15-20 MMHG THERAPEUTIC COMPRESSION is recommended for:
**Discomfort from spider veins
**Relief from minor leg swelling
**Relief of tired aching legs
**Relief of leg discomfort during pregnancy
** Minor varicose veins
**For wear following sclerotherapy

Answered by North Country Thoracic & Vascular (View Profile)

If you have a family history of varicose veins you will be more prone to develop them. You may want to go to the higher compression. These are the general guidelines found on most websites. Knee high can sometime cause more problems because they cut off the flow of competent veins at the knee. You may want to consider thigh high or pantyhose. These are often less expensive through a physician's office than the local medical supplier; call around.
8-15 MMHG LIGHT COMPRESSION is recommended for:
**Tired, Achy Legs
**Mild Fatigue
**Occupations with long periods of sitting or standing
15-20 MMHG THERAPEUTIC COMPRESSION is recommended for:
**Discomfort from spider veins
**Relief from minor leg swelling
**Relief of tired aching legs
**Relief of leg discomfort during pregnancy
** Minor varicose veins
**For wear following sclerotherapy

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Jun 12, 2011

If you have no varicose veins and only some spiders then 15 to 20 mm Hg compression should be adequate. If you have varicose then 20 to 30 should be adequate. More severe varicose veins may require 30 to 40 but these are hard to get on and off and most people complain about them.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

If you have no varicose veins and only some spiders then 15 to 20 mm Hg compression should be adequate. If you have varicose then 20 to 30 should be adequate. More severe varicose veins may require 30 to 40 but these are hard to get on and off and most people complain about them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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