Medical Compression Information | Guide - CSO Australia

Medical Compression Information – Your Complete Guide

Welcome to the Compression Stockings Online (CSO) information hub. Based in Sydney, Australia, we are dedicated to providing Australians with authoritative, clinical-grade information about graduated compression therapy and the medical-grade products we stock from Sigvaris, Jobst, Juzo, and Venosan.

What is Graduated Compression Therapy?

Graduated compression therapy uses specially engineered hosiery to apply measured pressure to the lower limbs. The compression is strongest at the ankle and progressively decreases towards the knee or thigh. This graduated pressure gradient supports the venous and lymphatic systems, helping blood flow back towards the heart and reducing fluid accumulation in the tissues.

Medical-grade compression stockings are clinically proven to manage and prevent a wide range of venous and lymphatic conditions, including:

  • Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)
  • Varicose veins and spider veins
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention and post-thrombotic syndrome
  • Lymphoedema management
  • Post-surgical recovery (vascular, orthopaedic, and cosmetic procedures)
  • Pregnancy-related leg swelling and varicose veins
  • Occupational leg fatigue for those who stand or sit for prolonged periods

Understanding Compression Classes

In Australia, medical compression garments follow the European RAL standard (Deutsches Institut für Gütesicherung und Kennzeichnung). Compression classes indicate the pressure delivered at the ankle:

  • Class 1 (18–21 mmHg): Light compression for prevention, mild varicose veins, tired and heavy legs, and travel DVT prophylaxis.
  • Class 2 (23–32 mmHg): Moderate compression for established varicose veins, post-sclerotherapy, pregnancy, and mild oedema. The most commonly prescribed class in Australia.
  • Class 3 (34–46 mmHg): Firm compression for severe chronic venous insufficiency, post-thrombotic syndrome, and lymphoedema.

Our Brands

CSO Australia stocks exclusively RAL-certified, medical-grade compression garments from the world's leading manufacturers:

  • Sigvaris (Switzerland) – Premium Swiss-engineered compression with a focus on comfort, durability, and fashion-forward designs.
  • Jobst (Germany/Essity) – One of the oldest and most trusted names in compression therapy, with an extensive clinical evidence base.
  • Juzo (Germany) – Known for flat-knit garments used in lymphoedema management and custom-made solutions.
  • Venosan (Switzerland) – High-quality Swiss compression hosiery with a wide variety of styles including travel socks and maternity ranges.

Helpful Resources

This dropdown is where you will find various helpful information including FAQs and Washing Instructions.

For personalised advice on choosing the right medical-grade compression garment, contact our Sydney team on (02) 9062 3243 or browse our FAQ page.

The Science Behind Graduated Medical Compression

Graduated compression therapy is one of the most well-evidenced conservative treatments in vascular medicine. The principle relies on applying controlled, decreasing pressure from the ankle upward, which counteracts the effects of gravity on venous blood flow. This mechanism was first described by German physician Fischer in the 1910s and has since been validated in hundreds of randomised controlled trials worldwide.

How Graduated Compression Works Physiologically

When correctly fitted, medical compression stockings narrow the diameter of superficial and deep veins in the lower leg. This reduction in venous diameter increases the velocity of blood flow back to the heart (as described by the Venturi effect), reduces venous pressure in the ambulatory state and improves the function of venous valves. The net result is decreased venous hypertension, reduced capillary filtration and improved lymphatic drainage.

Clinical Indications Supported by Evidence

Australian and international vascular guidelines (including those from the Australasian College of Phlebology) recommend graduated compression therapy for:

  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): Stages C1–C6 on the CEAP classification, including telangiectasia, varicose veins, oedema and venous ulceration.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis Prevention: Post-surgical prophylaxis, immobility-related risk during hospitalisation and long-distance travel exceeding 4 hours.
  • Lymphoedema Management: Both primary and secondary lymphoedema of the upper and lower limbs, as a cornerstone of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT).
  • Pregnancy-Related Venous Conditions: Prevention and management of gestational varicose veins, leg oedema and superficial thrombophlebitis.
  • Post-Sclerotherapy and Post-Surgical Recovery: Maintaining treatment outcomes after vein ablation, stripping or injection sclerotherapy procedures.

Measuring for Medical Compression in Australia

Accurate measurement is essential for therapeutic compression to work effectively. Measurements should ideally be taken first thing in the morning before any significant swelling occurs. Key measurement points include: ankle circumference at the narrowest point above the malleolus, calf circumference at the widest point of the gastrocnemius, thigh circumference (for thigh-high garments) and leg lengths from the floor to specific anatomical landmarks. Our sizing calculator provides step-by-step guidance for all major brands.

Australian Standards and RAL Certification

All medical-grade compression garments stocked by Compression Stockings Online meet the German RAL-GZ 387 quality standard or equivalent international certification (such as BSI in the UK or AFNOR in France). RAL certification ensures that garments deliver their stated compression pressure consistently across the wear life, with strict tolerances on pressure distribution, durability and material safety. This distinguishes true medical compression from non-certified "support" hosiery available at pharmacies.

Consulting Your Healthcare Provider

While mild compression (Class 1, 15–20 mmHg) is generally safe for most adults, higher compression classes should be prescribed following clinical assessment. Conditions such as peripheral arterial disease, uncontrolled heart failure and certain skin conditions may contraindicate compression therapy. Always consult your GP, vascular specialist or lymphoedema therapist before commencing medical compression, particularly for Class 2 and above.