The compression garments are different than intermittent mechanical compression? I read a Q for l/l edema pressure should be 35 mmhg, for U/l it should be 25 mmhg and in TherapyEd it suggested it shouldn’t exceed the diastolic BP AND some suggested that it should be between SBP and DBP? Will you please throw some more light on it?

Compression garments differ from Intermittent mechanical compression devices even though both are popular interventions for the management of edema and lymphedema. Due to the larger muscle mass, wider girth and greater effect of gravity on the muscles of the lower limbs (when compared to the muscles of the upper limb) more pressure, than would be applied to the upper limb, is required for effective management.

As a precautionary measure, to avoid occlusion or torniquet effect, the DBP is commonly used as a good pressure cut-off or limit. However, this limit can be exceeded depending on the severity of the clinical presentation. Of course, arterial occlusion – which is a clinical emergency, occurs when the pressure applied approximates the SBP or exceeds it. That is why the recommended pressure for intermittent mechanical compression is between DBP and SBP.

Because of their perfect fit, compression stockings (when measured correctly) deliver a precise level of compression, as well as a pressure gradient, even for extreme body shapes. The compression classes are (1) = 18-21 mmHg, (2) = 23-32 mmHg, (3) = 34-46 mmHg, (4) => 49 mmHg.

Reference 1