Is the correct name “support stocking” or “compression hosiery“?  We use the terms interchangeably.  However, some inexpensive socks or pantyhose claim to be support stockings when they often are simply hosiery that has been made to squeeze your leg when worn.  Genuine compression hosiery has “graduated compression” and is manufactured to provide an exact amount of compression at different points on your legs and ankles.   It describes a high quality product that is manufactured to provide a measurable level of compression that has been proven to provide significant health benefits.

Graduated compression, sometimes called gradient compression, means that the amount of compression (pressure on your legs) is the greatest at the ankle and then decreases as it moves up the leg.  This gradient compression encourages circulation by pumping the blood through the ankles with increased force.

Compression is measured in millimeters of mercury or mmHg.  The larger the numbers, the higher the compression.  A 30-40mmHg stocking provides more compression than a 15-20mmHg stocking.  The reason for the range of numbers, i.e. 30-40mmHg, means there is 40mmHg compression at the ankle and it decreases to 30mmHg at the top of the stocking.  Looking for support stockings with a mmHg rating is your indication that it’s real graduated compression hosiery.

Producing hosiery that provides a carefully measured, yet varying amount of compression for your leg is a complicated process that requires careful manufacturing control.

Juzo and LympheDivas are the two manufacturers which stand out for providing compression armsleeves that are beautiful, fashionable and in the case of LympheDivas, even a bit witty.

Juzo offers seasonal colors for fall/winter and spring/summer. This fall you can choose from Plum, Blueberry, Chocolate, Ivy, Pink, and Cranberry. Normally $71.49, they are on sale for $57.19. The armsleeve has a stay-up band and is offered in 20-30 and 30-40 compressions.  Matching gauntlets (gloves) are also available.

LympheDivas began in Philadelphia in 2006 when two young breast cancer survivors developed lymphedema and were prescribed armsleeves to control swelling. They were not pleased with the beige, bandage-like products they found. Having backgrounds in the fashion industry and design, and working with a highly reputable compression manufacturer, they began making armsleeves which combine creativity with functionality. In addition to vibrant solid colors, they offer a variety of patterns including the recently introduced Zebra Zag, Diva Dots and Nirvana.