Symptoms and conditions of the venous or lymphatic system can appear on different parts of a person’s leg(s).  To provide the most effective relief for the affected area compression stockings and support hose are available in different types and shapes.

Types of Compression Stockings:

1. Below The Knee  And Knee-High Compression Stockings
2. Above The Knee Compression Stockings
3. Thigh-High Compression Stockings (Without Hip Band)
4. Thigh-High Compression Stockings (With Hip Band/Garter Belt)
5. Pantyhose Compression Stockings
6. Maternity Style Compression Stockings or Support Pantyhose

Important Note:  Always consult with your physician about any concerns you have regarding your health and for recommendations on what type of compression stocking would best suit your needs.  Do not self-diagnose based on information you read on this or any other website.

1. Below The Knee And Knee-High Compression Stockings

These and other types of compression stockings or socks can be suitable for therapeutic benefits in relieving feelings of achiness, heaviness, poor circulation and swelling in the lower parts of the legs.

2. Above The Knee Compression Stockings

Above the knee socks or stockings are usually recommended if the area with the condition you are trying to address includes the knee level.

3. Thigh-High Compression Stockings (Without Hip Band)

These are longer compression stockings with integrated silicone band at the top to ensure that they stay in place.  This type of hosiery can help to reduce the effects of chronic venous insufficiency such as achiness, varicose veins, swelling, leg ulcers and skin changes if these conditions are present over the entire leg(s).  In addition, they can be a suitable aid for preventing the reappearance of spider veins and varicose veins after sclerotherapy or after pregnancy.  For these types of stockings to be most effective and to ensure a proper fit (not too tight and not so they will fall down) it is important that exact measurements of the legs are taken early in the morning, if possible prior to getting up.

4. Thigh-High Compression Stockings (With Hip Band/Garter Belt)

These are also full thigh length compression stockings with the mere difference that they come without a stay-up band at the top.  Instead they must be worn attached to a garter belt around the waist to prevent them from sliding down.  Other thigh-high versions have an adjustable band firmly connected to the stocking, which can be fastened around the waist.  These types of stockings are available with right or left side fasteners or for both legs.

5. Pantyhose Style Compression Stockings

Most modern graduated compression and support pantyhose are made of high-tech breathable, soft and comfortable to wear materials that move with your body.  These “leg savers” can be effective in improving blood circulation and freeing their wearers from such burdens as achy, heavy and swollen legs.  Compression hose has also come of age in a way that they no longer have to be hidden like the ugly cousins of fashion pantyhose.  Soft, sheer and high quality fibers combined with most advanced knitting techniques and technology have made it in most cases difficult if not impossible to distinguish compression stockings from elegant fashion hosiery.

6. Maternity Style Compression Stockings or Support Pantyhose

More than 50% of all pregnant women develop vein problems during their pregnancy.  This can involve mild to moderate swelling in the feet and legs, retention of fluid and in more extreme cases even spider veins and varicose veins.  Wearing maternity style compression stockings or pantyhose can improve blood circulation during pregnancy and provide significant protection through graduated compression from the ankles all the way up the legs.  Many pregnant women therefore realize the potential benefits of maternity pantyhose for maximum protection and for the therapeutic effect on their legs.

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