Why should compression stockings for the legs be gradient?
Gradient compression is specifically important to the legs. When we stand still the forces of gravity increase the pressure within the veins of the legs greatest at the ankle and decreasing gradually up the leg and body. This pressure depends on the vertical distance of the column of blood from the heart to the foot. Gradient compression stockings are designed with the pressure greatest at the ankle and decreasing up the leg in order to counter the effects of the higher venous pressures.
A. Gradient compression (see What is Gradient Compression) is specifically important to the legs. When we stand still the forces of gravity increase the pressure within the veins of the legs – greatest at the ankle and decreasing gradually up the leg and body. This pressure depends on the vertical distance of the column of blood from the heart to the foot. Approximately 86 mmHg of pressure is inside the veins of the ankle of a 57 adult in the quiet standing position. In the vena cava vein just before it enters the heart, the venous pressure is about 2 mmHg. Gradient compression stockings are designed with the pressure greatest at the ankle and decreasing up the leg in order to counter the effects of the higher venous pressures.
