What are TED Hose or Anti-Embolism Stockings?
Anti-Embolism Stockings are commonly known as TED Hose and are designed specifically for non-ambulatory patients or those confined to a bed. They are a temporary solution used for patients in nursing homes and after surgery in the hospital to prevent coagulation. TED Hose only offer 8-18 mmHg (millimeters of Mercury) of non-graduated compression, which provide a minimal amount of therapeutic compression. They are not stylish, often difficult to put on and because of the primitive material can easily irritate the skin.
Healthy, active and ambulatory patients will find that TED Hose provide minimal stretch lengthwise and thus can lead to bunching, rolling and binding that often will hurt more than help.
The Compression Stocking Difference:
Graduated Compression Stockings are medically therapeutic stockings designed for the mobile patient. Graduated compression stockings provide 100% of its indicated strength at the ankle and get lighter as it moves up the calf or to the thigh. This graduated property allows compression stockings to aid in circulation more effectively.
Compression levels for graduated compression stockings begin at 15-20 mmHg and can be as strong as 50+ mmHg. Stronger compression is often needed to offset the effects of gravity on a circulatory system in an upright, ambulatory patient. Individuals needing graduated compression stockings usually wear them daily.
Always consult your doctor when deciding on when and how long to wear compression stockings. Due to the advancements in technology, Graduated Compression Stockings are stylish, comfortable and easy to put on and take off. They come in a variety of material choices and have extremely accurate sizing.
So what should I get?
If you’re up and about, which you probably are since you’re reading this, you should be in a graduated compression stocking. If your doctor that has prescribed these or recommended them, please double check which level of compression you should be in and if you need a knee high, thigh high or waist high (pantyhose, maternity).
You may also check out the list of indications for each level of compression.
