Comparing Gradient Compression and Anti-Embolism Hosiery

Posted by kmills@thuasneusa.com BigCommerce on Sep 16th 2024

SEPTEMBER 18, 2024

Comparing Gradient Compression and Anti-Embolism Hosiery


Learn how anti-embolism stockings support circulation and aid in recovery from surgeries. Explore the differences between medical-grade compression for vein health and anti-embolism for recovery.

Anti-embolism hosiery support circulation and aid in recovery from surgeries

Have you ever been hospitalized and found a pair of compression socks on your legs? If you were familiar with compression, you probably recognized that they were there to prevent you from developing a case of deep vein thrombosis. Although they were also designed to increase circulation, there are some significant differences between these socks from the hospital and traditional compression socks.

Compression socks are designed to increase circulation.

What Are Anti-Embolism Stockings?

Anti-embolism socks have been commonly referred to as TED hose. TED stands for thrombo-embolic deterrent and the main purpose of these socks is to prevent blood clots and swelling in legs. They are worn by patients who are bedridden or by those who have recently had surgery.

Anti-embolism stockings also contain a consistent amount of compression throughout the stocking. The compression level is lower than medical grade compression, as well, at only 18mmHg. Consistent compression is designed to mimic the activity of the leg muscles while walking. These socks are important protective tools for people who aren’t able to do much or any walking due to their recovery from surgery or other medical conditions that leave them confined to a bed.

Anti-embolism stockings are designed to mimic the activity of leg muscles while walking.

How Do They Differ from Gradient Compression Stockings?

The biggest differences between anti-embolism socks and medical grade gradient compression socks are the amount of compression and the uniformity of compression. Therafirm anti-embolism stockings also feature an open toe. The purpose of this is to allow healthcare professionals easy access to the toes for inspection. These socks are usually used short term while the patient is recovering from surgery but can also be used for patients that are bedridden for reasons other than surgery.

Medical grade gradient compression socks are meant for people who are mobile but have vein and circulation conditions. They need higher levels of compression, usually 20-30mmHg or 30-40mmHg. Medical grade gradient compression gives veins in the calves a boost, preventing blood from pooling in the legs and helping it return to the heart for reoxygenation.

Why Do We Need Both?

Due to the key differences in both styles of compression socks, it is important that both are available to patients. Many people will wear their anti-embolism stockings while recovering from surgery, and then transition to medical grade gradient compression to foster good vein health once back on the go.

Medical grade gradient compression fosters good vein health

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