Evaluation of graduated compression stockings: a multi-size analysis of fabric properties and leg pressures

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical properties of a full-size range (S-XXL) of a commonly used brand of medical grade GCS, aimed to provide consistent leg pressures across all sizes, assisting patients recovering from Achilles tendon rupture surgery. Design/methodology/approach This experimental study analyzed the fabric properties of a full-size range of GCS and evaluated their applied pressures on the Ankle and Calf levels of 14 patients recovering from Achilles tendon rupture surgery. ANOVA was run across multiple dependent variables, Density, Thickness, Weight, Air Permeability, Force, Elongation and Stiffness of stocking fabrics. Findings Results revealed significant effects for several factors. Sock Size had a significant main effect on Density, Thickness and Force. Level had a significant main effect on Weight, but no interaction effects were significant. Air Permeability was significantly influenced by its main effect and by its interaction with Sock Size. No significant main effects or interactions were found for Elongation. Both Sock Size and Level had significant main effects on Stiffness. The Pressure results showed that the Level variable had a significant effect on Pressure, explaining 40.4% of the variance in Pressure. Research limitations/implications Because of the chosen research approach, samples and participants, the research results may lack some generalizability. Practical implications The results highlight the inconsistent fabric properties across a size range of medical grade GCS, with the larger sizes having smaller differences between pressures on the Calf relative to Ankle than the smaller sizes. Originality/value This paper fulfils an identified need to study the size range of GCS and the material properties in relation to body pressures. Understanding these differences could help GCS manufacturers improve their sock sizing design process, resulting in more consistent pressure properties across sock sizes, and better therapeutic and recovery patient experience.