Compression Levels and Indications

Compression Level1 Indications
10 - 20 mmHg
  • Heaviness and fatigue of the leg
  • Mild varicose veins during pregnancy
  • Mild varicose veins without significant oedema
  • Prophylaxis of thrombosis and embolism for immobile patients
  • Prophylaxis during travel (Economy Class Syndrome)
20 - 30 mmHg
  • More severe varicose veins during pregnancy
  • Varicose veins with mild oedema
  • Post superficial and deep venous thrombosis
  • Post sclerotherapy, venous surgery or thermal ablation
  • Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
  • Management of healed venous ulcer
  • Prevention of DVT and oedema
  • Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS)
  • Prevention of PTS
  • Post-traumatic oedema
30 - 40 mmHg2
  • Pronounced varicosis with severe oedema
  • Severe chronic venous insufficiency
  • Treatment of active ulcers and recurrent ulcers
  • Severe post-traumatic oedema
  • Lymphoedema
>40 mmHg
  • Severe post-thrombotic syndrome
  • Severe lymphoedema

1 Compression levels proposed are just indicative and may be changed as to the judjement of the therapist. National regulations may define distinct compression ranges for given compression classes.
2 In the US, 30-40 mmHg may be used for post-procedure of a venous surgery or thermal ablation.

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Yes, your risk of developing an ulcer is elevated. The vessels’ functioning is so disturbed that there is stasis. Then edema appears and your skin aspect changes – at first a color change, then it itches and eczema appears. As time passes, your skin hardens. A small wound or an inflammation due to a mosquito bite are enough to cause deterioration to your skin. An ulcer forms. These changes appear gradually and can in most cases be resolved with treatment.

No, as the risk factors like genetic predisposition and higher age cannot be treated. But you can prevent symptoms and also signs of chronic venous insufficiency if you have varicose veins. Keep moving! Use the staircase rather than the elevator. Practice a sport that stimulates your venous system like cycling, swimming, or walking. Raise your legs and move as often as possible. It is also recommended to shower your legs with cold water and to wear compression socks or stockings.