Remember: TEDs are for Beds!
TED hose are stockings for people who are bed ridden and are not walking, standing or sitting. The level of compression in a TED hose is usually very low.
If you are standing or sitting (ie, not bed ridden), then you should be in a compression sock or stocking.
The difference between TED hose and compression stockings is how the compression is applied to the leg. TED hose do nothing to help reduce swelling and increase circulation when your legs are upright. So if you were told to get TED hose, and you’re not bed ridden, then you should get compression stockings.
If you’ve never worn them before, it might be nice to start off with a light level of compression such as a 15-20 mmHg (millimeters of Mercury). If you have more swelling and leg health issues, it might be a good idea to consult your doctor or health care professional to ask about higher levels of compression such as 20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg.