Medical grade compression garments and brace fitting in Leichhardt
Compression only works if it is the right class and fits properly. Our physiotherapists assess you, measure you and fit your stockings, sleeves or brace — so you leave with a garment that does its job and that you can actually wear.
What medical grade compression does
Medical grade garments apply graduated pressure — firmest at the ankle or wrist and easing towards the knee, thigh or shoulder. This supports the veins and lymphatics to move fluid back towards the heart, reducing swelling, aching and heaviness.
Graduated, not just tight
Unlike sports or fashion socks, medical grade garments are manufactured to a tested pressure profile, so the compression is where it needs to be.
Matched to your condition
The compression class is chosen for your condition and tolerance. Too little does nothing; too much is uncomfortable, poorly tolerated or unsafe.
Fitted to your measurements
Your limb is measured at set points and the garment sized to match, so it stays up, doesn't dig in and delivers the intended pressure.
Who benefits from compression?
Veins
- Varicose veins and spider veins
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Aching, heavy or tired legs
- After vein treatment or surgery, as directed by your specialist
- Varicose veins and swelling in pregnancy
Swelling
- Joint and limb swelling after injury, sprain or fracture
- Swelling after orthopaedic surgery
- Mild, stable lymphoedema
- Ankle swelling from long periods of standing or sitting
Clots and travel
- Long-haul flights, to reduce the risk of travel-related deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Symptom relief after a DVT, alongside medical treatment
- Ongoing compression after surgery, once hospital stockings are no longer needed
Sport and work
- Recovery after training and competition
- Jobs with long hours on your feet
- Calf and Achilles support during return to running
Compression classes
Medical grade compression is graded by the pressure measured at the ankle, in millimetres of mercury (mmHg). We use the RAL standard widely used in Australia; exact ranges vary slightly between manufacturers.
| Class | Ankle pressure | Commonly used for |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 — light | 18–21 mmHg | Tired, aching legs, mild swelling, spider veins, long-haul travel, pregnancy |
| Class 2 — moderate | 23–32 mmHg | Varicose veins, moderate swelling, chronic venous insufficiency, after vein treatment or DVT |
| Class 3 — firm | 34–46 mmHg | Severe venous disease and lymphoedema, usually under specialist direction |
Sports and travel socks sold over the counter are often below Class 1 or not tested to a pressure standard. Hospital anti-embolism stockings (TEDs) are designed for people lying in bed and are not a substitute for a fitted medical grade garment once you are up and about.
How a fitting works
Assessment
Your history, symptoms and medications are reviewed and your circulation, skin and swelling checked, to confirm compression is safe and to choose the right class.Measurement
Your limb is measured at standard points — ankle, calf, knee and thigh, or wrist, forearm and upper arm. Book a morning appointment where possible, when swelling is lowest.Garment selection
Style (knee-high, thigh-high, pantyhose or sleeve), open or closed toe, material and colour are chosen to suit your condition, skin and how easily you can put it on.Fitting and education
You are shown how to put the garment on and take it off, how to care for it and how long to wear it each day. Donning aids are available if needed.
Brace and support fitting
We prescribe and fit Bauerfeind supports and braces as part of your physiotherapy, chosen for your injury, sport and stage of recovery.
Knee
Supports for knee pain, osteoarthritis, kneecap tracking problems and ligament injuries, and during return to sport.
Ankle and foot
Ankle supports after sprains and for recurrent instability, and Achilles supports for tendon pain.
Back, wrist and elbow
Lumbar supports, wrist braces for sprains and repetitive strain, and elbow supports for tennis and golfer's elbow.
For fractures, see our fracture clinic — EXOS braces and Aircast walker boots fitted on site.
Shop compression and bracing
Already know your size and class? Browse our range online, or contact the clinic for advice before you buy.
Before you book
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly. If your GP, specialist or surgeon has recommended compression, bring their letter or the compression class they have specified.
Why not just buy compression socks off the shelf?
Off-the-shelf socks are sized by shoe size or a single measurement, and many are not tested to a medical pressure standard. A garment that is too loose does nothing; one that is too tight can dig in, roll down or restrict circulation. Measuring and fitting gets the pressure right.
Is compression safe for everyone?
No. Compression is not suitable for people with significant arterial disease, severe peripheral neuropathy, uncontrolled heart failure, or broken, infected or weeping skin on the limb. This is why we assess before fitting, and may ask your GP to check your circulation first.
How long do I wear them each day?
For most conditions, put them on in the morning before swelling builds and take them off at night. You do not usually need to wear them in bed unless your doctor has advised it.
Should I wear compression stockings on a long flight?
For flights longer than about four hours, below-knee compression stockings reduce the risk of travel-related DVT, particularly if you have additional risk factors. Keep moving, flex your calves and stay hydrated as well. If you have had a clot before, speak to your doctor before flying.
How do I look after my garments?
Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle in a laundry bag, avoid fabric softener, and dry flat away from direct heat. Daily washing removes skin oils and helps the fabric recover its elasticity.
Can I claim a rebate?
A private health fund rebate may be available for compression garments and braces under extras cover, depending on your fund and level of cover — check with your fund before booking. Garments related to an accepted WorkCover, CTP or DVA claim may be covered with insurer approval.
Clinical detail
For GPs, specialists and surgeons referring for compression.
Pre-fitting assessment
History, medications and risk factors reviewed; peripheral pulses, skin integrity, sensation and oedema assessed. Where arterial insufficiency is suspected, compression is deferred pending ABPI or vascular review.
Garment specification
Round-knit, ready-to-wear garments in Class 1–2, with Class 3 supplied on specialist direction. Length, closure, material and donning aids are matched to the client's condition, skin and dexterity.
Lymphoedema
Mild, stable limb lymphoedema can be managed with ready-to-wear garments. Clients needing flat-knit or custom-made garments, or complex decongestive therapy, are referred to an accredited lymphoedema practitioner.
Review
Fit, tolerance and skin are reviewed at follow-up, and limbs re-measured when oedema or body weight changes. Garments are replaced every 3–6 months.
Compression not fitted
- Significant peripheral arterial disease, or ABPI below 0.8 without vascular advice
- Severe peripheral neuropathy
- Decompensated heart failure
- Acute skin infection, weeping dermatitis or fragile skin on the limb
- Known allergy to garment materials
For suspected acute DVT, the client is referred for medical assessment before any garment is fitted.
Book a compression or brace fitting
Not sure what you need? Call or email and we'll point you in the right direction.
Location
Suite 5 Level 1, 267–277 Norton Street
Leichhardt NSW 2040
Free on-site parking
Hours
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
8am – 8pm
Tuesday, Thursday
8am – 3pm